About Us
Ballina Slipway and Marine Services was founded by Michael Cocks in 2004.
Michael has always held a passion for all things nautical and has a lifetime of knowledge and experience in boating operations, servicing and repair.
It is Michael’s passion for boats and desire to service the Northern Rivers boating community, that has seen our operations recently expand to include our brand-new boat ramp, jetty and additional hard stand areas.
In his spare time, Michael can be found sailing.
His beloved dog, Samson, passed over the rainbow bridge in 2022, so its up to super puppy, George, to keep Michael on his toes.
Xavier
Derrick
Derrick has been involved at the Slipway for many years as he lives on a boat on our moorings. Derrick’s background in Macadamia Farming and as a Chef means he has a keen eye for detail and is not afraid to get his hands dirty. Aptly nicknamed, “Derrick Rex Hunt”, he is a keen fisherman and boasts some impressive catches.
Thomas
Thomas (Frenchy) is our French connect here at Ballina slipway and also our head Shipwright. Thomas was trained in France completing an advanced diploma in boatbuilding and project management. He moved to Australia in 2018 and has been here ever since. In his spare time Frenchy enjoys, surfing, fishing, diving, camping and hiking.
Sarah
Sarah has over 25 years’ experience in accounting and administration. She looks after the back office of the business and in her spare time works in aged care at her home in Kingaroy