When you step onboard a Freedom Fast Cats vessel, you’re not just joining a tour — you’re joining a family. This is a locally owned, multi-generation business built on passion, teamwork, and a lifelong love for the Keppels. From the friendly smile that checks you in at the office to the crew who help you spot turtles off the bow, every person plays a part in making your island day something to remember.

The Allen Family – Steering the Ship

At the heart of Freedom Fast Cats are Max and Carmel Allen, a husband-and-wife team whose lives have always revolved around the ocean. Long before Freedom Fast Cats became a familiar name on the Capricorn Coast, Max and Carmel spent many years operating charter boats out of Gladstone, exploring and showcasing the Great Barrier Reef along Queensland’s coastline.

In 1999, they decided to bring their wealth of experience closer to home, purchasing a vessel for the Capricorn Coast so their son, Max Jnr, could begin running transfers and tours to the Keppels. By 2003, Max and Carmel made the move to Yeppoon, where Freedom Fast Cats has proudly called Rosslyn Bay Harbour home ever since.

Together, Max and Carmel helped shape the business into what it is today — combining their passion for the sea, commitment to safety, and belief in genuine, local hospitality. Max still runs the show here at Freedom Fast Cats, working seven days a week and loving every minute of it. Carmel remains an integral part of the operation too, especially during weekends and busy periods, keeping everything shipshape and connected.

Carrying that same passion forward, Max Jnr now leads as General Manager and Master Reef Guide, blending decades of family knowledge with his own energy and expertise. And his wife Mel, the Office & Marketing Manager, keeps the operation running smoothly — from daily logistics to guest experience and creative outreach.

The Onboard Legends – Skippers, Deckies & Marine Experts

Once you’re on the water, you’ll meet the legends who bring the reef to life.

Cody and Jack, our skippers, are as skilled as they are approachable — known for their smooth handling, entertaining briefings, and great rapport with guests. They know these waters like the back of their hand and take pride in sharing them safely and joyfully.

Brenda, our resident Marine Biologist and Glass Bottom Boat Driver, transforms every reef tour into a living classroom. Her deep knowledge and friendly delivery help guests see the Great Barrier Reef through new eyes.

Alongside her is Tiana, another talented Glass Bottom Boat Driver, whose enthusiasm and insight make her tours a favourite among families.

Liam, one of our energetic deckhands, brings both skill and spirit to every trip — whether he’s setting up snorkel gear, helping guests aboard, or working the BBQ.

And then there’s Paige, who somehow manages to be in two places at once. She balances time between reception and deckhand duties, greeting guests in the office and helping them enjoy the water once the ropes are off.

Helping Hands – The Heart of the Operation

Back onshore, you’ll find Liz, our friendly Office and Reception superstar. With years of experience and a warm, genuine manner, she keeps everything running smoothly. Liz is the reassuring voice you hear when you call and the smiling face who welcomes you at Rosslyn Bay Harbour.

Weekends often see Eloise back in her happy place on the water. During the week, she works in regional tourism and contracts to Capricorn Enterprise, but she still loves helping out on the boats whenever she can. For her, it’s the perfect way to stay connected to the islands she adores — and to sneak in a little sunshine.

The Next Generation – Weekend Crew & Café Team

The Freedom Fast Cats spirit is alive and well in the next generation. Chelse — the daughter of Max Jnr and Mel — along with Amaya and Charlie, lend a hand around the café and onshore during the weekends and holidays, keeping guests happy and everything running smoothly. Their friendly energy adds an extra dose of warmth to each busy day.

And on weekends, you’ll often spot Archie, Miley, and Ash helping out as junior deckies. They’re quick learners with great enthusiasm — the future of the Freedom Fast Cats crew and proof that the love for the Keppels runs deep in the community.

Behind the Scenes – Engineering & Maintenance

Every great vessel needs a solid team keeping her seaworthy, and that’s where Damo and Ed come in. As Freedom Fast Cats’ trusted engineering duo, they’re the ones who keep the fleet running safely and smoothly. From engine maintenance to last-minute fixes before departure, these two know every bolt, beam, and bearing on board.

Their hard work behind the scenes ensures that every ferry, tour, and charter runs like clockwork — so guests can focus on enjoying their Great Keppel Island adventure while the boats perform at their best.

Meet Us on the Water

At Freedom Fast Cats, every team member — from the office to the ocean — shares one mission: to help guests experience the best of Great Keppel Island with heart, humour, and local pride. It’s more than a job; it’s a way of life.

So next time you hop aboard, take a moment to say hello — whether it’s to Max Snr keeping things running, Carmel ensuring everything’s shipshape, or one of the friendly faces helping you into your snorkel gear. You’re not just travelling with a tour company; you’re joining the Freedom family.