Boatsafe Training Qld now part of BIA

Boatsafe Training Qld now part of BIA © Boating Industry Association

Leading Queensland Boatsafe training industry association BQI, which delivers marine training including boat driver licensing, has this week joined the Boating Industry Association Ltd.

Boating Industry Association (BIA) CEO Andrew Scott said the move would enhance representation for the local safe boating training sector.

"BIA will now establish a new Boatsafe Training Division to help improve awareness of, and access to, trusted boating educators to support the recreational boating community, as well as additional support in advocacy to governments," Scott said.

"BIA is committed to the promotion of safe, responsible and enjoyable boating, and this move helps to support that outcome.

"A great day on the water means having the knowledge and skills to safely, and comfortably, operate your boat, and formal training is an important part of this experience. With more than 2.5 million Australians holding a boat licence and more than 1 million alone in Queensland, having a team such as BQI join the BIA adds to the quality training available from our professional marine industry members."

BQI was established in 2005 and since then has advocated for high standards in boating safety education in Queensland. With more than 50 accredited training organisations part of the Boatsafe program in Queensland, the move by BQI to join BIA ensures this support for the sector will continue.

Outgoing BQI Hon Secretary, Gordon Peterson, said "entrusting the future of the BQI as part of the BIA membership has been a well-planned move by our industry leaders and I'm very pleased to confirm that the offer from BIA to take our group onboard has been well received by members and our friends at Maritime Safety Queensland."

BQI members will be formally welcomed into BIA membership over the coming weeks, further strengthening the BIA's representation for the marine industry.

The BIA is the peak industry body in Australia that represents the interests of boating which includes designers, manufacturers, importers, brokers, insurers, retailers, charters, yacht and boat clubs, marinas, events, surveyors and trades from boat builders to riggers, and more. BIA is an advocate for boaters and the boating lifestyle and supports safe, responsible, and enjoyable boating. BIA has members in all States and Territories.

For more information on BIA visit: www.bia.org.au.