By Domenic Genua, Publisher, Marine Business News.
Next week I will be heading to the Melbourne Boat Show, and I am very much looking forward to it.
Running from Thursday 15 to Sunday 18 October at Docklands, this year’s show promises plenty for boaters, families and those of us who enjoy seeing the marine industry come together.
Over recent weeks, I have been impressed by the volume of news arriving at Marine Business News from businesses announcing their participation. There is a sense of enthusiasm in these announcements, and it has been pleasing to see how many exhibitors are putting considerable thought into what they will offer visitors.
Equally encouraging is the breadth of representation.
From boats and engines to electronics, fishing equipment, accessories and marine services, the show brings together a broad cross-section of our industry. That variety gives visitors reasons to attend, whatever their boating interests or level of experience.
I am particularly pleased to see exhibitors choosing Melbourne to introduce new products. Aussie Boat Sales, for example, will present the Australian debut of Chaparral’s SSX 4 and the first Victorian showing of its 280 OSX. These launches add another reason to walk the displays and speak with the people behind the products.
To me, this participation speaks to the respect the industry has for the Melbourne Boat Show and the importance it has built over a history stretching back to the early 1960s. That standing is earned through years of bringing businesses and customers together, helping people discover boating and giving exhibitors opportunities to build relationships.
The organisers have also assembled a clever mix of education and entertainment. Cookie’s Supertank, Coast Guard displays and a live flare demonstration will sit alongside seafood cooking and guest speakers hosted by Paul Burt on the Suzuki Marine Main Stage. Family activities, the Clean Ocean Project and inclusive experiences through Making Waves Foundation and Sailability help broaden the invitation further.
It is a thoughtful combination. Visitors can enjoy a day by the water while learning something useful, discovering equipment or finding the confidence to take their next step into boating.
For me, it will also be an opportunity to catch up with industry friends, meet exhibitors and see firsthand what they have been preparing.
I look forward to seeing you there.
Admission is free, with registration available through the Melbourne Boat Show website.
