Sea-Trex is set to return to the spotlight at the 2026 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS), marking a new era for the long-established Australian aluminium boat brand, originally founded in 1983.
Acquired in July 2025 by marine industry leader Tim Stessl from his retiring father Alf Stessl, Sea-Trex is now entering a new phase of reinvention that builds on decades of family boat-building heritage while introducing a fresh, modern direction.
SCIBS 2026 will host the official rebrand and relaunch of the Sea-Trex range, with seven boats on display showcasing the breadth of the lineup.
“This is more than a handover – it’s the next generation building on a foundation that’s been decades in the making,” said Tim Stessl. “Sea-Trex has always stood for tough, reliable Australian-built boats, and we’re excited to evolve that into something even stronger for today’s market.”
Positioned under the slogan “Boating Starts Here,” Sea-Trex has been reintroduced as the accessible entry point into the Stessl family portfolio, aimed at first-time buyers and recreational boaters. The relaunch brings a distinctive creative direction inspired by a cool, retro 1980s aesthetic, a bold and fresh visual approach not previously seen in the Australian marine industry. This sits in contrast to Makocraft, the group’s established hero brand, which continues to cater to experienced boaters and serious anglers with its premium Australian-made plate boat range.
Together, Sea-Trex and Makocraft allow the Stessl family to span the full boating market, from entry-level through to high-performance plate boats, strengthening their footprint across both manufacturing and retail, and reinforcing their commitment to long-term growth in Australian manufacturing.
Tim Stessl, along with his wife Sally, also operates Makocraft and the retail showroom Tim Stessl Marine. With Sea-Trex now joining the portfolio, the family continues to expand its presence in the Australian marine industry, building a portfolio of nationally recognised brands.
Tim and Alf Stessl are widely regarded as part of one of the longest-standing family legacies in the Australian marine industry, with over 80 years of combined boatbuilding and design experience influencing both brands.
SCIBS 2026 attendees are invited to visit the Sea-Trex display to experience the next evolution of a respected name in Australian boating.
For more information, visit www.seatrex.com.au
