In celebration of the 2025 UN International Women's Day theme, "March Forward," we spotlight a remarkable maritime professional, Katrina Beams, whose career exemplifies resilience, dedication, and the breaking of gender barriers.
Starting her seagoing career in 2004 as a steward with TT Line on the Spirit of Tasmania Ferries, Katrina quickly found her passion for the high seas. In 2005, she joined P&O Maritime Services, where she sailed on vessels such as the Oceanic Viking and Aurora Australis. Her love for the Southern Ocean and its challenges grew, leading to a number of career achievements.
Reflecting on her journey, Katrina shares, "I first experienced and fell in love with the high seas of the Southern Ocean sailing onboard Oceanic Viking and Aurora Australis."
Her career is marked by significant achievements, including being among the last to navigate the Aurora Australis and the first to navigate the new Serco-operated icebreaker RSV Nuyina to Antarctica. She holds a Deck Watchkeeper Unlimited licence with an Advanced Ice Navigation endorsement, a testament to her expertise and dedication.
One of Katrina’s proudest accomplishments is maintaining a sea-based role as a mother. "Returning to sea following the arrival of my son in 2016 was something I didn’t think was possible. I am thankful for and proud of our little family for stepping outside of the 'normal' box and making this happen," she says.
Currently, she serves as the Officer in Charge of the Navigation Watch on the RSV Nuyina, where she prepares passage plans, maintains navigation equipment, and performs administrative duties. She joined the vessel in the Netherlands towards the end of its build phase and has since completed several Antarctic seasons.
"The uniqueness of the job, the variety of different voyages we undertake, and experiencing the Antarctic with a great crew are what I enjoy most about my role," she explains.
Her dedication to her role is driven by a commitment to professional standards and a passion for the unique environment of the Antarctic. The Serco value of "Care" resonates deeply with Katrina, as she emphasises the importance of supporting her fellow crew members and maintaining a positive impact on the environment.
"To proactively make plans, decisions, and take actions that will positively impact our futures is what Serco’s purpose ‘Impact a better future’ means to me," she states.
In line with the International Women's Day theme, Katrina encourages women to pursue their dreams in the maritime industry. "Don’t let historical gender biases sway your future decisions. Dream it, believe it, plan it, do it," she advises.
Her story is a powerful reminder of the strides women are making in traditionally male-dominated fields, and her journey continues to inspire others to march forward towards a more inclusive and diverse future.