Employment, pathways and investment in the future.
The Boat Works’ ongoing reinvestment into world-class marine infrastructure has not only transformed it into Australia’s most dynamic and advanced marine facility, it has also created a solid foundation for long-term employment and prosperity within the marine industry.
This continuous evolution has supported the development of a skilled workforce which will span generations, with over 1,000 people working on-site daily, across vessels ranging from 8-foot runabouts to 80-metre superyachts.
Each day, more than million dollars is paid in wages among the 100+ marine businesses on-site and contractors who, together form a powerhouse of trades, services, and innovation.
These figures represent sustained career opportunities, apprenticeships and trades that anchor families and communities within this thriving sector, with a vast flow-on effect in south-east Queensland and Northern NSW in the form of provisions, catering, crew, tourism and investment.
As the Gold Coast’s largest industrial site in any sector, The Boat Works is home to the most comprehensive collection of marine service providers in Australia, many of whom have established their headquarters on-site; More than 100 small to medium businesses representing the complete A to Z of marine.
This powerful cluster of expertise creates a true “one-stop-shop” for marine services, from maintenance and major refits to yacht management and provisioning.
The appeal and reputation of The Boat Works and its service providers on-site continue to grow. A year after expanding operations from Sydney to the Gold Coast, Chapman Yachting relocated key personnel and established a northern base focused on yacht management, refit, charter and crewing. Their move north has propelled significant business momentum, attracting more vessels to the precinct for comprehensive refit and maintenance works.
Director, Cooper Chapman said it was a logical move to establish Chapman’s Queensland refit headquarters at The Boat Works.
“In Sydney, as in all major cities, there are limits to infrastructure expansion. We just couldn’t service the number of boats to meet demand.
“The Boat Works provides a facility with access to the country’s largest concentration of marine trades who are world-class. The industry is booming. The boats are coming in increasing numbers.
“The other important fact to note is that if you want to enter the yachting and marine industries, any career path at all, they are all represented at The Boat Works and broader Coomera Marine Precinct. Whatever direction you choose, you can count on mentors and employers keen to train you through the ranks. Working in the yachting industry is a livelihood and also a lifestyle, with great people and amazing prospects.”
The Boat Works has become the destination of choice for international superyachts between charters, for routine maintenance and extensive refits.
Recent arrivals include the 45m Calliope, 52m JeMaSa, and the most recent 115ft Benetti, Ubiquitous from Fort Lauderdale, all of which chose The Boat Works for its high-tech facilities, including refit sheds and in-water controlled work environments, and access to high-calibre local trades. These amenities allow for fast, effective turnarounds, reinforcing The Boat Works’ global reputation as a premium marine hub.
“After years of experience in shipyards worldwide, I can confidently say The Boat Works sets the benchmark,” stated Captain Andy Hughes, M/Y Ubiquitous.
“This impressive, purpose-built superyacht facility offers a clean, welcoming environment, first-rate amenities, modern sheds, and access to skilled, competitive trades, ensuring every service, survey, and refit is efficient, reliable, and stress-free. The team and the trades make our yard periods genuinely enjoyable.”
The Boat Works is Australia’s most advanced marine facility, purpose-built for a cleaner, more sustainable future.
Through visionary infrastructure investment, The Boat Works is not only fueling a dynamic and ever-evolving industry, but also cementing the future of marine trades and services for generations to come.
“The vision of the Longhurst family for this precinct typifies the ‘have-a-go spirit’ our city is famous for,’’ said Gold Coast Mayor, Tom Tate.
“From humble beginnings, the precinct now offers the best marine services and facilities in Australia, employing more than 1,000 locals including a dynamic apprenticeship program across all trades.
“Globally, our city’s brand as a marine destination-of-choice has been reinforced thanks to the vision of Tony and the team at Boat Works.’’
Michael Crandon MP, Member for Coomera added his observations, praising the facility as “a hub for small business operators” and “vital for employment and apprenticeships”.
“Local small business operators need a base with easy access to a quality workforce and, conversely, can provide valuable opportunities for local employment – opportunities that extend to creating pathways for our youth through training and apprenticeships,”
“Small to medium-sized businesses are the lifeblood of Queensland’s economy. They are at the centre of our economic strength and resilience. Thanks to The Boat Works, the boating industry’s prosperity is assured, with their investment continuing to drive innovation, growth, and sustainability across the sector.”
Through continuous reinvestment in world-class infrastructure and eco-conscious design, The Boat Works is setting a new benchmark in marine innovation, opportunity, and environmental responsibility, while creating a legacy for future generations.
