Marinas26 Conference Session announcement - The Future of Boatyards

Marinas26 Conference Session speakers © Marinas26

Five leading boatyard experts explore the technologies, operational strategies, and key decisions shaping the future of boatyards within modern marina precincts.

The boatyard sector is undergoing a period of significant transformation, shaped by emerging technologies, increasing environmental compliance obligations, evolving workforce expectations, and the growing integration of boatyards within modern marina precincts. Bringing together five of the industry's most experienced professionals, this session explores the operational realities and strategic decisions facing boatyard operators today and into the future.

Andrew Chapman AM CMM, Lorraine Yates CMP, Stephen Hosking CMM, Julie Cook, and Phil Wardale CMM will share practical insights from across Australia and New Zealand, covering best practice in day-to-day operations, advancements in haul-out and maintenance technologies, workforce development, environmental management, and the long-term planning required to keep facilities competitive and commercially viable. The discussion will examine how boatyards are being maintained, upgraded and repositioned to meet changing industry demands, while continuing to deliver value within increasingly sophisticated marina environments.

Delegates will gain a clearer understanding of the challenges and opportunities shaping the next generation of boatyards, along with practical takeaways on the investments, operational approaches and strategic thinking required to remain relevant and successful over the coming decade.

Date: Tuesday, 26 May 2026
Time: 13:00 - 14:00

Speakers panel

Lorraine Yates CMP, Panel Chair
General Manager, White Bay 6 Marine Park

Lorraine manages White Bay 6 Marine Park in Sydney and serves as a Director on the Board of the Marina Industries Association. With extensive experience in marina and boatyard operations, she specialises in practical leadership, safety and quality outcomes, and building high-performing teams, bringing hands-on insight and strategic expertise to marine operations, team development and operational excellence.

Andrew Chapman AM CMM
MIA President

Andrew brings over 40 years' experience in the design, construction and management of marinas, shipyards and waterfront developments. President of the Marina Industries Association and an international lecturer in marina management, he combines a hands-on approach to project delivery with deep operational expertise, having led projects from greenfield developments such as The Marina Hindmarsh Island to the day-to-day operations of Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard. Specialising in high-performing marine facilities, Andrew integrates environmental best practice, technical capability and a strong understanding of customer expectations to deliver sustainable, commercially successful marina assets.

Stephen Hosking CMM
Marina Manager, The Quays Marina

Stephen has been Marina Manager at The Quays Marina in Pittwater since 2012 and is a seasoned marine industry professional with a diverse background spanning the NSW Police Force and real estate. A Certified Marina Manager (CMM) and co-creator of "Q Service," the marina's vessel service and maintenance arm, he specialises in people management and building strong, high-performing teams. With experience that includes competing in the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, Stephen brings practical leadership, calm under pressure and a strong understanding of marina operations and customer service.

Phil Wardale CMM
Managing Director, Wardale Ltd.

Phil is Managing Director of Wardale Ltd and an experienced company director with extensive marine industry expertise, specialising in advising local government on waterfront and marine infrastructure. Since founding Wardale Ltd in 2012, he has led projects from concept through to delivery, developing robust business cases, securing funding and delivering successful outcomes. With a governance background that includes board appointments and Chair roles across key industry organisations, Phil combines deep sector knowledge, government insight and strong stakeholder management to support high-performing, sustainable waterfront developments.

Julie Cook
CEO, The Yard Brisbane

Julie Cook is the CEO of The Yard Brisbane, one of the most well-resourced shipyards on Australia's east coast. With more than 20 years of experience in the marine industry, she brings extensive operational and strategic leadership across vessel refit and repair, manufacturing, fabrication, and maintenance. She holds an Executive MBA from Queensland University of Technology and has also worked across the marine and aviation sectors. Under Julie's leadership, The Yard Brisbane has strengthened its international profile, attracting superyachts and major refit projects from around the world. The 7-hectare Brisbane River facility delivers full-service marine capabilities supported by more than 350 professionals, and Julie is a passionate advocate for showcasing Australian marine expertise on the global stage.