Passing On The Passion

With Steve & Toni Ward from Whitsunday Boat & Jetski Licence Training

Steve and Toni Ward have spent thirty years turning their lifelong passion for the ocean into a string of successful businesses. This year, the pair dived even deeper into the Whitsunday water scene, building on their legacy with a new venture: Whitsunday Boat & Jetski Licence Training.

Having owned and operated businesses like Whitsunday Jetski Tours, Daydream Island Watersports, Whitsunday Parasailing and Island Jet Boating, the husband-and-wife duo are now helping locals and visitors alike gain not only their marine licences but also something far more valuable: confidence.

“We don’t just teach people to pass a test,” Steve says.

“We teach practical skills for operating safely in real conditions. What makes us unique is the level of real experience behind the training.”

Steve has lived in the Whitsundays, championing marine tourism for over 30 years, owning and operating several successful watersports businesses. With experience that spans vessel operations, safety management, and training, passing on his skills to the next generation of boaties feels like a natural progression.

“Mentoring people on the water has always been a passion.” Steve shared.

“What we both love most is seeing someone go from nervous to capable in just a day. It’s incredibly rewarding—it’s helping someone build skills for life.”

At Steve’s side is his business partner and wife, Toni, who balances his industry knowledge with strong business and operational experience through a background in administration, customer service, and business management.

“We have very complementary roles.” Toni said.

“Steve is hands-on, delivering training and assessments with a strong focus on safety and real-world experience. I manage the business side—bookings, systems, marketing, and customer communication.

“Our biggest strength is clear communication and shared goals. Like any partnership, balancing work and personal life can be a challenge, but we keep things grounded by staying focused on the bigger picture and supporting each other.”

Highlights of Whitsunday Boat & Jetski’s evolution have been becoming an authorised BoatSafe provider under Allstate Boat Licensing, bringing a locally focused training service to the region they love, and being met with massive enthusiasm.

Outside of work, the 'Wardys' – Toni, Steve and four big kids – have always been all about action and adventure.

“We love anything on the water—boating, jet skiing, kitesurfing, wing foiling—you name it,” they said.

“When we’re not out on the water, we’re usually in the dirt on the motorbikes, enjoying enduro weekends and a bit of adventure riding. At the end of the day, it’s all about family time and making the most of the Whitsundays lifestyle.”

That love of the Whitsundays is poured into everything Steve and Toni do – and it makes them the perfect teachers. Their courses are built on passion, integrity, and a drive to contribute to safe boating by providing high-quality training and a positive, supportive experience for every student.

Q: What advice would you give to others looking to build amazing teams?

Our mantra has always been 'Your vibe attracts your tribe.'

Never aim to be the smartest person in the room and always be willing to learn something new.

Respect each other’s strengths, stay aligned on your goals, and don’t let small issues grow into bigger ones.

A strong team is built on trust, accountability, and mutual support.

Q: Describe your partner’s personality in three words:

Steve: Driven, knowledgeable, dependable

Toni: Organised, supportive, motivated

‍