Symphony Musician Marnie Sebire Balances Life on Hawkesbury River

Marnie Sebire, a talented French hornist with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, has successfully transitioned to a unique dual career as a boat captain and musician, living a dream life on the picturesque Hawkesbury River. At 51, Sebire's journey began in 2021 when she decided to relocate from Sydney's North Shore to Bar Point, a locale only accessible by water, sparking a remarkable career transformation.

Sebire's decision to move was driven by a deep longing for a life by the water, a desire that intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic. "I was thinking about what it meant to be an artist during that time and it provoked a reassessment of my priorities," Sebire explained. The serendipitous sale of her house in Sydney enabled her to purchase a waterfront property, aligning her personal and professional aspirations.

Adapting to a life on the water proved challenging for Sebire, who had never piloted a boat before. "[You have] to be organised, you can’t just pop down the street for a bottle of milk," she noted, highlighting the logistical complexities of grocery shopping in her new environment. Recognizing the necessity of boat operation skills, Sebire enrolled in a maritime course at TAFE, where she learned the fundamentals of boating and navigation.

After completing her initial training, Sebire pursued additional qualifications, eventually becoming a licensed coxswain, which allows her to operate vessels up to 12 meters. This training unlocked new opportunities, including a partnership with a fifth-generation oyster farmer, further intertwining her musical and maritime careers.

As a musician, Sebire performs regularly at the iconic Sydney Opera House, typically engaging in four performances a week. Her unique lifestyle allows her to balance these demanding schedules while also operating her oyster boat during the day. "It’s a bit of a balancing act, [but] to have this within an hour of Sydney blows my mind," she remarked.

Sebire's story resonates with many individuals seeking a lifestyle change later in life. "I feel so fortunate. I have done a lot of traveling and didn’t think there was anything like this that I could balance music and life on the water," she said, expressing her contentment with her current situation.

Experts note that such lifestyle changes can have profound impacts on well-being. Dr. Emily Wang, a psychologist and lecturer at the University of Sydney, emphasized the mental health benefits of pursuing personal passions. "Engaging in fulfilling activities, such as music or outdoor work, can significantly enhance one's quality of life," she stated in her 2023 research published in the Journal of Happiness Studies.

Sebire's journey illustrates the potential for individuals to redefine their careers and find fulfillment, especially amidst the uncertainties brought about by global events like the COVID-19 pandemic. As she continues to navigate both her artistic and maritime paths, her story serves as an inspiring example of adaptability and the pursuit of passion in the face of change.