Jess Plumsted has made history as Newcastle's first permanent female ferry master at the helm of the very ferry she once caught to school every day from Stockton.

Jess followed her passion for the water from an early age. Starting as a deck hand at just 18, she worked her way up through the industry, before returning home to captain the Stockton ferry.

Jess is breaking barriers in an industry that has long been male dominated, proving that opportunities on the water aren't just for blokes. She's not only steering a ferry; she's steering change, inspiring young women to follow careers they may never have considered.

To Jess, thank you for showing everyone what is possible. Newcastle is very proud of you.