Introducing Jacob Oxlade — New Coastwatch Presenter

Introducing Jacob Oxlade: A new voice for Coastwatch & Boats

Jacob Oxlade is no stranger to the water. In fact, his boating story began almost before he could walk.
“I was conscripted by my dad from the age of about two weeks old,” Jacob laughs. “There’s a photo of me under his arm on the boat. Ever since then, I’d go out in the little dinghy by myself throughout the day and come back at night—as long as I came back, that was good.”

Weekends were filled with boating –a family ritual– and even school took a back seat when the Sanctuary Cove Boat Show rolled around.
“We’d always get an extra day off school for the boat show,” Jacob recalls. “Dad was never commercial, but he always had boats—starting with a 30-foot Cuddles, then a Fairway 36, and now a 43-foot bay cruiser (Moreton Lady).”

From Childhood Passion to Professional Career

Jacob’s love for classic boats has blossomed into a career as a skipper. After four years aboard Lady Brisbane, he transitioned to coastal runs and ocean-going vessels.
“It started with Rob (Siganto) calling me to drive his boat (the South Pacific II) for the Brisbane to Gladstone yacht race,” Jacob says. “It’s always been my favourite boat in the world—ever since I was a kid, I used to look at South Pacific II and think, that’s my dream boat.”

When the call came, there was no hesitation.
“I was blown away. Rob said the name, and I just tagged along. It’s been great ever since.”

Of Jacob, Rob Siganto says:
“Jacob’s got the brain of a 75-year-old. He’s the youngest on board but the most responsible. He’s got a can-do attitude and makes things work.”

A Deep Connection to Coastwatch

Jacob grew up with Brownie’s Coastwatch as a trusted source of boating knowledge.
“Dad would say, ‘Jacob, shut up—Coastwatch is coming on.’ That was the plan for the weekend. Before easy internet access, it was the go-to place.”

That legacy resonates with Jacob today.
“The busier the waterways get, the more important it is for people to be informed—about go-slow zones, wash impact, and safe operation. Courses teach valuable things, but there’s always more to learn than a boat license.”

Passion for Classic Boats

Jacob’s enthusiasm for timber classics is unmistakable.
“I’d love to talk about boats—particularly classic timber boats. I love that. And even just talking to people and seeing their passion is infectious. Being welcomed aboard these boats is not something everyone gets to experience, so sharing that is awesome.”

Jacob is also the founder of the “Moreton Bay Classic” event — an event Coastwatch has been involved in since its inception — and which has become loved and eagerly awaited each year.

His own boat, Moreton Maid, is a 31-foot Clem Masters—a vessel with history and character.
“She’s unique, and we’ve kept her going.”

Looking Ahead

Jacob is also now a presenter on Australia’s Classic Boats, Coastwatch’s premium content series, as well as other segments including Show Us Your Boat.

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