Meet the Team
Chris Cullen – Owner & Head Mechanic
With over 30 years’ experience in the marine industry, Chris Cullen is the trusted expert for all your boating and engine needs. Fully qualified and up to date with the latest manufacturer training, he ensures every service meets the highest standards.
Known locally as the go-to person for marine issues — even competitors call for his advice — Chris has built strong relationships with customers who value his experience, knowledge, and practical guidance.
From diagnostics and repairs to routine maintenance and full engine rebuilds, Chris’s expertise across all makes and models makes him your reliable marine mechanic in Bowen and the Whitsundays.
Kate Cullen – Sales & Marketing Manager
With a strong background in finance and retail, Kate joined her husband Chris at Reef Side Marine in 2018, bringing her expertise, energy, and passion for supporting the business and the local community.
As Sales & Marketing Manager, Kate oversees sales planning, marketing strategies, and promotional activities, ensuring Reef Side Marine continues to grow while delivering excellent customer service.
Known for her friendly and approachable manner, Kate provides personalized guidance when purchasing motors or marine accessories. She is dedicated to supporting local businesses and promoting both Reef Side Marine and the Bowen community.
Sharyne Cutler – Accounts Administration
Sharyne joined Reef Side Marine in 2022 and quickly became an essential part of the team. She manages accounts payable and receivable, working remotely while staying connected with both customers and staff.
Passionate about boating herself, Sharyne keeps the back-end of the business running smoothly, ensuring everything behind the scenes is organised and efficient — the team would be lost without her!
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Tab Buckley – Parts Interpreter
Tab joined the Reef Side Marine team in May 2023 and is your go-to expert for all parts enquiries. With over 20 years of experience in parts interpretation, she has the knowledge and skills to help customers find exactly what they need.
Tab assists the workshop by ensuring the team has the right parts and supplies to get the job done efficiently. She can advise on product range, pricing, delivery, warranties, and proper use, covering items such as marine parts, trailer parts, lubricants, batteries, and safety gear.
Known for her can-do attitude, Tab goes the extra mile to source hard-to-find products, ensuring your parts are delivered promptly and within budget. If she can find it, she will.
Mason Gatto – 4th Year Apprentice
Mason has been learning from Reef Side Marine’s Head Mechanic from a young age and joined the team in January 2019 as a Trade Assistant. In July 2021, he transitioned into a School-Based Apprenticeship, combining paid on-the-job training with his high school studies while working towards a nationally accredited qualification. He is now a 4th year apprentice and soon to be a qualified marine mechanic.
Working alongside Chris, Mason assists with diagnosis, repair, and servicing of marine engines and components, including cooling and fuel systems, clutch assemblies, transmissions, propeller and jet drive systems, as well as marine electrical, electronic, and ignition systems. He also helps with trailers, inboard hull equipment, and instruments.
Jack Grigg – 4th Year Apprentice
Jack joined Reef Side Marine in April 2024 and has become an important part of the workshop team.
He is gaining hands-on experience across a variety of marine engines and systems, assisting with repairs, servicing, and installations while learning the skills needed to become a fully qualified marine mechanic. Jack also supports jobs in Airlie Beach and other locations, broadening his practical knowledge and expertise.
With a keen interest in all things marine, Jack regularly supports our Airlie Beach work and is gaining the hands-on experience needed to become a skilled, qualified marine mechanic.
