Ascent Shipwrights is an owner-operated business providing the best service in the industry. Our team is led by our experienced Managing Director Daniel Roberts, who has been in the marine industry for over 16 years. Daniel works alongside a uniquely talented team of experienced shipwrights and marine painters with a wealth of knowledge to ensure the highest quality results.
We pride ourselves on providing outstanding quality for each and every one of our clients. We take the time to understand your unique boating needs and ensure that your vessel is completed on time and on budget.
The Ascent Shipwrights Team
Daniel Roberts
MANAGING DIRECTOR / SHIPWRIGHT
Daniel grew up around boats, spending his childhood and young adult life competitively sailing. During his sailing career, Daniel has won numinous state and national titles, whilst also developing a passion for boat building.
Daniel has over 14 years of experience in the boat building industry, spending the initial years in Western Australia specialising in composite constructions and modifications. After completing his apprenticeship to become a qualified Shipwright and marine construction engineer Daniel ventured to England to further his skills in high tech carbon composites and his career as a professional sailor. Whilst in England Daniel worked on numerous superyacht constructions and rebuilds.
After 18 months overseas Daniel moved back to Western Australia in 2011 and established his own business, since then he has continued to grow the team and business to what it is today. When Daniel is not at work you’ll often catch him off the coast either spearfishing, surfing or kite surfing.
Kate Davies
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Kate joined the Ascent Shipwrights team as the Office Manager in 2020 and made an immediate and lasting impact in the office. With a robust background in Marketing and Public Relations, Kate graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 2017. Her diverse skill set, strategic thinking, and innovative approach have significantly enhanced the team's operations and efficiency.
Kate’s extensive experience, positive attitude, and relentless hard work behind the scenes have been pivotal in helping the Ascent team deliver top-notch customer service and outstanding outcomes. Her ability to seamlessly manage the office while supporting various initiatives ensures that everything runs smoothly and efficiently, making her an invaluable asset to the organization.
Kate is a passionate sports enthusiast and outdoor adventurer. She enjoys playing footy, surfing, and spending quality time with her family. Additionally, she seizes every opportunity to get out on the boat, fully embracing her love for the water and the great outdoors.
John O'Connor
GENERAL MANAGER & SHIPWRIGHT
Meet John, a veteran of the Western Australian marine industry with over 30 years of unparalleled experience. As a remarkable addition to the Ascent Shipwrights family, John has made an instant impact both in the office and on the tools. His incredible attention to detail and dedication to quality workmanship are evident in every job he undertakes, solidifying his reputation as a true craftsman.
John’s extensive career has equipped him with a deep understanding of the marine industry, making him an invaluable asset to the team. His wealth of knowledge and hands-on expertise ensure that every project he touches meets the highest standards of excellence.
Outside of his professional life, John enjoys spending time with his family and exploring the open waters on his boat. His passion for the marine world extends beyond work, reflecting his lifelong commitment to and love for the industry.
Ashlee Creamer
OFFICE MANAGER
Meet Ashlee, the newest member at Ascent Shipwrights, who provides administrative support to Daniel, Kate, and the team. With over 12 years of administrative experience, she brings a wealth of expertise to the table, ensuring smooth sailing in all their endeavours.
Beyond the professional realm, Ashlee is a proud mother to three wonderful children and is constantly inspired by their curiosity and boundless energy. When she's not immersed in the world of business, you'll often find her exploring new destinations, cherishing quality time with her family, or indulging her passion for culinary adventures.
Federico Fedi
NAVAL ARCHITECT
Hailing from Italy Federico joined us in 2023, making an immediate impact within the team. Federico has a Degree in Nautical Engineering from the University of La Spezia, Italy. After graduation, Federico worked for Studio Roberto Angel, Sanlorenzo Yachts and Sealine before coming to Australia. Since joining the team Federico has worked on several major projects including a commercial vessel interior design, The Ascent 665, The AXE 80 and our new patrol vessels.
Outside of work, Federico loves to travel and enjoys spending time at the beach.
Jordon Vukojevich
SHIPWRIGHT
Jordon joined the Ascent Shipwrights team in mid-2022 and has quickly proven himself to be a dedicated and hard-working member. As a crucial part of the fit-out team, Jordon's keen eye for detail and commitment to excellence consistently produce fantastic results on refits and rebuilds for our clients. His meticulous craftsmanship and dedication ensure that every project he undertakes meets the highest standards of quality.
Jordon is known for his positive attitude and approachable nature. His cheerful demeanour and willingness to go the extra mile make him a beloved member of the team, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment.
In his free time, Jordon has a passion for 4WDing and camping. He enjoys exploring the great outdoors and is always planning his next adventure. When he's not out in nature, you'll often find him modifying his car, ensuring it's ready for the next journey.
Tex Sjerp
SHIPWRIGHT
Tex joined the Ascent Shipwrights team after graduating from CBC in 2019. Since then, he has proven himself to be a dedicated and hard-working team member who thrives on learning new skills. Tex's enthusiasm for his craft and his eagerness to grow have been evident throughout his apprenticeship, which he has now successfully completed.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Tex is a multifaceted individual with a passion for sports and the outdoors. He is a talented Water Polo player who has proudly represented both Western Australia and Australia on numerous occasions. His achievements in Water Polo are a testament to his discipline and competitive spirit.
Outside of the pool, Tex enjoys spending his free time on the water in other ways. He loves taking his boat out, surfing and spearfishing, combining his love for the ocean with his adventurous spirit.
Caelan Grimwood
APPRENTICE SHIPWRIGHT- THIRD YEAR
Caelan has always been passionate about boats, the ocean and most of all sailing. So when he completed high school he had only one career in mind, becoming a shipwright. Starting his apprenticeship at the beginning of 2022, Caelan is a passionate and productive team member.
Caelan still loves sailing competitively and on the weekends you will often find him out on the water racing cherubs!
Lucas Cattalini
APPRENTICE SHIPWRIGHT - FIRST YEAR
Lucas joined the team at the end of 2023, after completing work experience with us during the year. Lucas is a fast learner and is showing a natural talent for shipwrighting.
Outside of work, Lucas is a promising young football player. He is currently playing for South Fremantle in their Colts team and has a bright future ahead of him.
Neville & Elsie
CLIENT GREETING & RAG COLLECTION TEAM
Neville and Elsie are the client greeting and rag collection team. You will often find them supervising the team or in the office taking a quick break. They are always ready to greet our clients and receive a quick pat. Neville is Ascent Shipwrights’ longest-serving employee, starting on the job at just 8 weeks of age.
Outside of work, Neville is passionate about chasing shadows and cuddling on the couch, whilst Elsie enjoys playing fetch and eating as much as possible.
