Winter weather not a deterrent to winter marketing plans - MarineBusinessWorld Oceania newsletter
by Peter Rendle 16 Jun 2022 23:00 BST
Sydney International Boat Show © David Clare - firstlightphotography.com.au
As we plough through winter with the threat of power supplies being limited and perhaps resulting in power cuts, the industry is turning its attention to the return of the Sydney International Boat Show at Darling Harbour and Cockle Bay after a two-year hiatus caused by Covid.
Having attended more than forty Sydney Boat Shows, from the days they were held in the Showground at Moore Park, I have witnessed how the industry has grown in sophistication and professionalism to a point where the show now takes place at a prestigious location that in itself has already experienced a renovation from its construction in the nineties.
Being held in the 'off season' for boat shows gives exhibitors the opportunity to take a break from their regional locations and focus on encouraging more sales ahead of the approaching summer. This year will see no difference except to say that the rise in interest lending rates and the global inflation trend presents a challenge not experienced over the past decade. Time will tell, but the industry has had time to adjust to the new challenges and the return of the Sydney show is an opportunity to refresh the marketing skills and to further encourage the 'new generation' of boaters who turned to the water during the past two years.
The world celebrated the 70-year reign of Queen Elizabeth II last week and it was pleasing to note that several industry members were listed in the Queen's Birthday Honours List. Rivergate Marina and Shipyard Director Judy Brinsmead has been awarded a Member (AM) of the Order of Australia for her significant contribution to charity and business.
Ms Brinsmead has been instrumental in creating a stronger and more sustainable marine industry in Australia, working tirelessly to create a world-class marine facility and attract international superyachts to Queensland for tourism and refit purposes. As a long-term philanthropist, Ms Brinsmead also supports an array of charitable causes, which has ultimately led to the launch of the Brinsmead Hill Family Foundation in 2020.
Several sailors have been recognised for their outstanding service and achievements too. "I would like to congratulate and thank all members of the sailing community who were named in today's Queen's Birthday Honours List," said Australian Sailing President Daniel Belcher. "It is pleasing to see so many Australians recognised for their contribution to sailing and yachting, as well as the many club members honoured for their services and achievements.
"I would like to personally acknowledge Mr Robert Salteri AO, who is the current Australian Sailing Team Patrons Coordinator, for his ongoing contribution to the sport. Rob is a fine example of someone who has evolved his contribution to the sport as his life has evolved. We thank him and the many others like him who have been recognised today."
Among other recipients was John McConaghy AM, who was recognised for significant service to the yacht manufacturing sector. Owner of McConaghy Yachts from 1967-2000 and a pioneer in the use of composite materials for boat building, Mr McConaghy has had a lasting impact on the Australian sailing landscape. "John's contribution to our sport goes well beyond his outstanding career as a boat builder," said current Director of Australian Sailing, Richard Hudson. "He has been a regular participant in racing out on Pittwater for as long as I can remember, and he was a very worthy winner of Australian Sailing's Lifetime Achievement Award in 2019."
Mr Kevin Wood AM, Life Member of Sandringham Yacht Club and Commodore from 1999-2002, and the late Mr Brian Francis Girling OAM, Executive Committee Member of Sailability Victoria from 2005 and Rear Commodore of Lysterfield Sailing Club, were also recognised for their contributions to Sailing in Australia.
Those recognised for their contribution to sailing or yachting, and other sailing club members on the Queen's Birthday 2022 Honours List include: Officer (AO) in the General Division of the Order of Australia, Mr Robert Salteri, Sydney NSW 2000 - For distinguished service to transport, shipping and Defence industries, and to the community through philanthropic contributions (Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club and Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron). Member (AM) in the General Division of the Order of Australia, Mr Laurence Cheong Ah Toy, Howard Springs NT - For significant service to primary industry, to education, and to the community (Darwin Sailing Club) Mr John McConaghy, Avalon NSW - For significant service to the yacht manufacturing sector (Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club) Mr Kevin John Wood, Brighton VIC - For significant service to recreational sailing (Sandringham Yacht Club).
Further news comes from New Zealand and in particular designer Roger Hill. The latest Roger Hill design is a dramatic departure from the multihulls he has built his reputation on for more than 25 years. The custom-designed 13.9-metre monohull motor yacht, named "Tank", was commissioned by a former client and - while a step out of Roger's comfort zone - the new build will still have a number of "Hill hallmarks", including the lightweight, durability of the DuFLEX panel system.
As Roger explains, the brief was to design a monohull motor yacht for a couple who were intent on downsizing and using their boat more casually. "Their ideas and needs have changed and evolved," says Roger. "Their family has grown up and they would not use a big boat enough now there is only the two of them."
And news of another brand to be made available in this part of the world. Tesoro Yachts has announced The Yacht Sales Co as its exclusive Australia and New Zealand dealer making their range of premium super tenders and luxury motor yachts available to the region's boating enthusiasts. The Spanish shipyard is renowned for constructing high-end, dynamic, and luxurious walk-around yachts ranging from 38 to 55 feet that deliver exceptional performance and are suitable for a wide range of uses.
With more than 30 years' experience, the Tesoro Yachts range was developed by former international superyacht broker Juan Carlos Olivares and international maritime lawyer Andrés Martínez, and the brand has become a solid success across four continents.
More industry news is available at www.marinebusinessworld.com/Oceania
Stay safe,
Peter Rendle - peter.rendle@marinebusinessworld.com