The SailTime Team
Getting you out on the water with family and friends
Graham Raspass, SailTime Australia Founder
Graham Raspass was born in the UK where, after completing his studies at Bristol, he then joined Rupert Murdoch’s News Ltd and over the next 17 years worked for News Corporation in the United Kingdom, USA and Australia in senior executive roles . In 1993 he became the Director of his own company specialising in organisational development and performance improvement.
In 2008, Graham decided it was time to look for a business opportunity that would enable him to combine his passions for sailing and creating start-up businesses. After 18 months of research, Graham launched SailTime® Australia in April 2009 and opened the first Australian base, SailTime Newport, on the beautiful Pittwater, some 18 nautical miles north of Sydney Harbour. In addition to being a qualified Inshore Sailing Instructor, Graham is also an active participant in local twilight racing, regattas, and major events. Port Stephens race week, Airlie Beach race week, Hamilton Island race week.He is also fulfilled his passion for offshore racing through competing in Sydney to Hobart, Lord Howe Island, Coffs Harbour, Southport races, including 5 years with his own race boat, Swift, a Beneteau FIRST 44.7
As Australian Chief Sailing Officer ( CSO) , Graham handles all aspects of SailTime® Australia.
Angela Raspass, Marketing & Events Manager
Angela brings strategic smarts and high enthusiasm to her role as Marketing and Events Manager at SailTime Australia.
With a background in business strategy, positive psychology and events and a love of community, she thrives on creating experiences that bring people together and introduces then to the SailTime model of affordable sailing so they can create great memories with family and friends.
Graham has described her as an “enthusiastic non-participant”, meaning she loves to be on the water but doesn’t feel the need to learn to sail!
In addition to her SailTime role, she has also run her own business strategy and coaching consultancy for 23 years, supporting service based business owners with many of her clients being “sparky-brained” (aka: having had a late in life ADHD diagnosis)
Carmen Holden, Guest Services Manager, Port Stephens
Carmen joined the Port Stephens team in 2013 in the role of Guest Service Manager, the position was created to ensure that the need of every guest is met and exceeded with a smile. Carmen is more like a “Concierge” similar to that you would find in a high-end hotel. She works to ensure your stay with us is seamless and enjoyable from start to finish.
Carmen started her career in the travel industry and after fifteen years found the need for her sea change. “The marina is such a happy place to come each day, everyone is so friendly and I love coming to work in such a beautiful place,” says Carmen.
Carmen has progressed through training and is not just the “office lady” – equipped now with “General Purpose Hand” and “Competent Crew” certificates she is available and ready to help on the docks when needed.
Carmen loves to see all our guests so make sure you pop your head into the office and say hi.
McConaghy Marine - Pristine Yachting Services
Zack and Matt The McConaghy’s team ensure our boats are spotless both inside and out when you arrive to enjoy your sailing.
They’re renowned sailors and boating enthusiasts residing in Sydney, providing boating services for Sydney Harbour, Pittwater and Hawkesbury river vessels.
Find out more at https://www.mcconaghymarine.com.au/