Security Coordinator
When Neil first began working at the port maritime security was still in its infancy and the opportunity to be involved and the challenge of creating a Maritime Security team appealed to Neil. After having initially commenced as a roving security officer, Neil is now a security operations coordinator, responsible for managing specific sections of the Port Security Plan. He has been involved in introducing a number of initiatives including:
- the Light-Tower, which provides additional lighting in secure areas or at the scene of an incident
- the Emergency Trailer, used during roadside incidents to erect signs, divert traffic and to cordon off the affected area.
What drew me to being a security coordinator
“This is a role where you can never predict what will happen next. You constantly need to think, observe and to be aware of what is happening around you. As a security coordinator I manage a team and am responsible for ensuring that they develop their skills. The port is a constantly changing and fascinating place to work. Not only are you based by the water, but you can also be involved in some really exciting operations.”
Career Highlights
“Recently Cirque de Soleil was a resident on port land at Northshore and I’ve enjoyed being involved in planning the security for the event. A particular highlight was my involvement in Operation Talisman Sabre, which took care of visiting US warships including the USS Kittyhawk. Productive partnerships with the agencies located here at the port, particularly Customs and the Police are essential. One partnership I’ve particularly enjoyed has been with our neighbours the Water Police. We operate closely together; for example, those officers operating our security vessel Portwatch 2 are trained to the same level as the Water Police. Cooperation is essential too, for example, when providing escorts for the visiting US military vessels.”