TasPorts Charles Black Scholarship Recipient 2026
TasPorts is pleased to announce Amanda Gentle as the recipient of the TasPorts Charles Black Scholarship for 2026.
Posted
25 May 2026
Amanda Gentle is an aspiring maritime engineer at the Australian Maritime College (AMC).
This prestigious scholarship honours Tasmania’s inaugural Harbour Master, Captain Charles Black, and supports the development of future maritime professionals.
The announcement was made at a morning tea in Launceston, attended by Harbour Master Mick Wall, representatives from TasPorts, AMC and past scholarship recipients.
Captain Wall said the scholarship continues to play an important role in building Tasmania’s maritime capability.
“Now in its sixth year, this scholarship reflects TasPorts’ commitment to fostering emerging talent while recognising Captain Charles Black’s significant and lasting contribution to Tasmania’s ports,” Captain Wall said.
“It not only helps ease the financial burden of study but also provides invaluable industry exposure through placements across Tasmania’s diverse port network.”
Photo: Allan Gray, TasPorts Interim CEO with Amanda Gentle and Mick Wall, Harbour Master
Originally from Launceston, Amanda commenced her studies at AMC this year, enrolling in a Bachelor of Maritime Engineering (Honours). She aspires to pursue a career in offshore renewable energy or work as a naval architect with the Australian Navy.
TasPorts is proud to support Amanda on her journey toward becoming a future leader in the maritime industry and wishes her every success in her studies and career.
About Captain Charles Black
Captain Charles Black was widely respected in the maritime industry, dedicating more than 30 years of service to Tasmania’s ports and maritime sector.
Arriving in Tasmania in 1981 to work at the Australian Maritime College, Captain Black later held roles in Bass Strait and the Timor Sea before settling at the Port of Bell Bay as a Marine Pilot. He went on to become Harbour Master and CEO of the Port of Launceston, and, following the formation of TasPorts, Tasmania’s first Harbour Master. Even after retirement in 2015, he generously continued to share his expertise until his passing in 2018.
The TasPorts Charles Black Memorial Scholarship provides $5,000 per year for up to four years to a Tasmanian commencing an undergraduate degree at AMC.
More information is available on the University of Tasmania Scholarship and Prizes page
