Central Coast resident Marnie Sebire has successfully merged her dual passions for music and maritime life, finding fulfillment both as a symphony musician and an oyster boat captain. The 51-year-old French hornist with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra now operates her boat, The High Cs, to commute from her home on the Hawkesbury River to perform at the iconic Sydney Opera House.
In 2021, Ms. Sebire made a significant life change, relocating from the bustling North Shore of Sydney to the tranquil waters of Bar Point, an area accessible only by boat. She described this decision as serendipitous, noting, “A friend was selling the house and I had actually just sold my house in Sydney.” The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic prompted her to reassess her priorities, leading her to embrace this new lifestyle.
Despite her enthusiasm, Ms. Sebire faced challenges as a newcomer to boating. “You have to be organized; you can’t just pop down the street for a bottle of milk,” she explained, highlighting the logistical hurdles of living in a boat-access-only property. Grocery shopping became a complex task, involving multiple steps to transport supplies from the shop to her home.
To gain confidence and independence on the water, Ms. Sebire enrolled in a maritime course at TAFE, where she learned the essentials of boating. “I knew that I needed to know a lot more about boating if I was going to be living here for a long time,” she said. Her hard work paid off as she became proficient in boat operation, later qualifying as a coxswain, which allows her to command vessels up to 12 metres in length.
Finding a suitable boat for her training was another hurdle. Ms. Sebire connected with a fifth-generation oyster farmer, which opened doors for her to gain practical experience. This opportunity allowed her to expand her skills and explore a career that she had never previously considered.
Balancing Music and Maritime Life
Ms. Sebire’s journey in music began in her early teens when she picked up the French horn. Over the years, she has toured with prestigious ensembles, including the Australian World Orchestra and the rock band Silverchair during the 2008 Big Day Out festival. Now, her main stage is the Sydney Opera House, where she typically performs four times a week, alongside frequent travel to the city.
Despite her demanding schedule, Ms. Sebire relishes the unique balance she has achieved. “It’s a bit of a balancing act, but to have this within an hour of Sydney blows my mind,” she remarked. The combination of her musical career and her new maritime life has provided her with an enriching experience that few can claim.
Ms. Sebire’s story illustrates the possibilities that can arise when one is willing to embrace change and learn new skills later in life. “Sharing this place with others is something I can see myself doing long into the future,” she said, reflecting on her journey. She has traveled extensively, yet she believes that nothing compares to the life she has created, harmonizing her love for music and the ocean.
