Keeping The Burdekin Afloat

When Raymond Peterson stepped in to take over a closing marine shop in 2010, it wasn’t just a business decision—it was a personal mission.

A Burdekin local with saltwater in his blood and a toolbox in hand, Raymond had been working on boats since finishing school in 1996. So when the opportunity came to carry on the region’s boating tradition, he jumped in.

“I’ve always loved boats. It’s what I grew up with—dad was a mad fisherman,” he said. “It was about keeping boating alive in Home Hill.”

Now the Managing Director of the Mercury-certified dealership, Raymond and his team offer repairs, sales, and servicing for all major outboard brands—without losing that hands-on, old-school touch.

“Technology’s changed a lot over the past decade. We’ve had to keep up—Mercury’s digital systems, engine networking, sounders, solar, you name it,” he said. “But I still believe in passing down the basics. Not everyone can afford a new motor. Sometimes it costs me more, but I’ll do what it takes to keep a customer on the water.”

Raymond says the shop has trained several apprentices over the years and has seen the local boating community grow, especially with retirees and grey nomads moving into the region.

“It’s all word of mouth around here. You do the right thing, get people back on the water—that’s what matters.”

With strong relationships across other local dealerships and a shared belief in service over sales, Raymond is proud to be part of a tight-knit industry.

“The Burdekin’s like one big family,” he said. “Same goes for boating. You help each other out.”

Need help getting your boat back in action? Drop into the shop at 15 7A Ave, Home Hill for old-school service and the latest tech know-how.

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Raymond says the shop has trained several apprentices over the years and has seen the local boating community grow. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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