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At Ocean Force, we are dedicated to delivering high-performance hardware and testing solutions specifically designed for the most demanding industries. With over 40 years of experience, our NATA-accredited testing facility in Cairns guarantees that all equipment meets the highest standards of safety and compliance, minimising the risks associated with failure in critical environments.
We provide comprehensive testing and certification for load-bearing structures, ropes and rigging systems, vital for operations where safety and efficiency are paramount. Our cutting-edge asset management systems facilitate real-time tracking and compliance, ensuring seamless integration into your operational workflows. Procurement managers in heavy lifting, mining, defence and marine sectors can trust us for reliable, certified solutions that enhance both safety and productivity. Reach out to us to elevate your supply chain with our proven expertise and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Capability Statement
Theresa is the dynamic Managing Director of Ocean Force, providing strategic leadership across the company’s industrial, commercial and defence marine operations. With a background grounded in complex marine environments, operations and offshore logistics, Theresa brings a practical understanding of the demanding and exacting requirements of this industry. Theresa hails from a multigenerational marine family and holds a degree in Marine Science and Management, from the Australian Maritime College. She’s spearheaded the development of Ocean Force as a specialist supplier of anchoring systems, moorings, ropes, chains and engineered marine solutions. Her focus is on delivering compliant, reliable and fit-for-purpose equipment that supports complex marine projects, from infrastructure and defence applications to large-scale offshore operations.
Theresa takes a hands-on approach to leadership, working closely with clients, project teams and suppliers to ensure technical accuracy, regulatory compliance and efficient delivery. Her experience in managing marine assets, logistics and project execution underpins Ocean Force’s reputation as a trusted partner for high-risk, high-performance marine environments.
Sarah brings a powerful combination of leadership, compliance expertise and technical proficiency to her role as Technical and Operations Manager at Ocean Force. With a Master’s degree in Management and a strong background in operational delivery, she leads our NATA-accredited inspection and testing services with precision and efficiency. Sarah holds a LEEA Diploma in Lifting Operations, is certified in Working at Heights and has Defence Security Clearance. Her qualifications are matched by extensive practical experience across lifting gear, mooring systems, fall protection equipment, gangways, pilot ladders, davits and deck fittings.
A meticulous problem solver, Sarah is known for her rigorous approach to documentation, traceability and compliance. She ensures all testing and inspections meet or exceed applicable Australian Standards including AS 4991, AS 1891, AS 1657, AS 3775, ISO 799, and Marine Orders 32 & 505. Sarah is deeply committed to operational integrity, overseeing asset registers, inspection schedules and certification workflows to deliver audit-ready results, every time. Her ability to align field practice with compliance frameworks makes her an invaluable resource to Defence, commercial marine and government clients alike.
Tom Hogben is our accomplished General Manager with an impressive 16 years of dedicated leadership. Tom’s expertise and strategic vision have been instrumental in driving our success in the maritime industry. Under his guidance, our team consistently delivers top-notch service, maintaining high standards and staying ahead of industry trends. Committed to innovation and collaboration, Tom embodies our values, ensuring our organisation remains a leader in the maritime industry. Tom’s dedication to developing lasting customer relationships, fostering a client-centric approach truly sets us apart in the industry.
Jenny Gangell is our seasoned Accounts professional, who brings an impressive 14 years of dedicated experience to our team. As a key pillar of our financial operations, Jenny has played a crucial role in maintaining the fiscal health of our organisation. Her expertise in accounts management within the specialised context of ships chandlery has been invaluable, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in financial processes. With a decade-plus of contributions, Jenny Gangell exemplifies our commitment to excellence and precision in the dynamic world of ships chandlery.
The maritime tale of OCEAN FORCE is one of typical Australian grit, determination and spirit. Born into a family steeped in fishing tradition, founder and true pioneer Les Lowe inherited a remarkable skill for crafting prawn nets from his father, and this led Les to be one of the first to embark on prawn trawling off the remote north-western Australian coast in the 60s. Les Lowe met Rose, a travelling barmaid from a fishing family in Rockhampton, and in 1982 they made the decision to move their family to Karumba, QLD, and so began the laying of foundations that would create Gulf Net Mending Pty Ltd, and eventually, OCEAN FORCE.
Expertise in net craftsmanship and extensive experience in sustaining vessels in remote locations swiftly earned them a reputation as reliable partners to fishing fleets across the Gulf of Carpentaria – but this was just the beginning. As their reputation for net design and fabrication grew, so did opportunities to offer more than just skilled net services. Demand was growing for a variety of marine chandlery items that were vital to operations, and in response to this burgeoning demand GNM Chandlery came to be. At the same time, the family continued to invest in prawn trawling in the Gulf of Carpentaria, and their own fleet grew to six vessels.
In 1991 Les and Rose recognised an opportunity to expand and attract more customers and moved to Cairns, Far North Queensland, establishing a footprint in what has now become the Cairns Marine Precinct. As Les and Rose withdrew from active management of the business, their daughter Theresa stepped into the role of Managing Director, keeping the family owned and operated ethos of the company alive. Much like her parents, Theresa was born into a family steeped in marine tradition.
A significant expansion, renovation and refit of the retail outlet took place in 2011 and along with that came a rebrand to The Deckstore, offering an extensive selection of marine supplies and chandlery items to cater not only to the fishing industry but to all marine operators. The Deckstore, a testament to their deep knowledge of all things marine, remains Australian and family-owned. They continue to proudly carry the legacy of their founders.
Alongside The Deckstore, OCEAN FORCE was created to cater for larger commercial entities and to offer streamlined access to a variety of marine services including hardware supply, consultancy, and other areas of specialist expertise. OCEAN FORCE and The Deckstore exist as two distinct arms of the same organisation, with The Deckstore encompassing their retail services and online store, and OCEAN FORCE focussed on their corporate and commercial partners.
Today, their journey persists, fuelled by the same passion and dedication that ignited it all. Their maritime heritage has instilled in them a deep knowledge and experience in all aspects of marine supply, and their commitment to excellence remains unwavering. They extend their heartfelt gratitude for being a part of their story, and they eagerly anticipate serving you for many more years to come, as an Australian, family-owned company, with a rich maritime history.
OCEAN FORCE is owned and operated by the Lowe family, and headed by Managing Director Theresa Lowe.
Although we specialise in marine hardware supply, our expertise is often used in other industries and sectors. We’re happy to consult on any project – if in doubt, contact us.
The Deckstore is ideal for anyone who is servicing a single ship or a fleet of small boats and knows exactly what they are looking to order – you can visit the store or order online. If your needs are more complex, require consultancy or one of our specialist services, it is best to contact OCEAN FORCE directly.
We have a large stockholding and storage capacity to ensure that we can service Far North Queensland-based vessels quickly. When you use OCEAN FORCE, you are cutting out large wait times due to freight. Our management of our own prawn trawling fleet and history of remote vessel support makes us the best choice for partnering with your business for supply of marine hardware. On top of all that, we love a challenge. Tell us what you need and when you need it by – we’ll show you it can be done.
Ocean Force are committed to excellence and dedicated to propelling Australia’s maritime industry forward, with unwavering customer support and extensive range of stock. Using our internal expertise and external global supply chain, we create bespoke service solutions for our clients, tailored to their specific needs. We welcome your enquiry, so please contact us by completing this form or call 07 4035 1951 or sales@oceanforce.com.au
© Ocean Force 2026