Coursemaster Autopilots will close its doors tomorrow, 1 May 2026, bringing to an end more than five decades of continuous operation for one of Australia’s most recognised marine technology businesses.
For many across the Australian marine industry, the Coursemaster name is closely linked with the growth and development of the country’s recreational and commercial boating sectors. Its autopilot systems became a familiar and respected part of vessel operations both in Australia and internationally, while the company itself stood as an example of Australian marine research, development and manufacturing capability.
Coursemaster founder David Champman
Founded by inventor David Chapman following the development of his pioneering yacht autopilot, first showcased on the ABC’s Inventors program in 1974, Coursemaster Autopilots grew from a local innovation into a globally recognised manufacturer of marine autopilot systems.
Over more than 50 years, the business designed and manufactured autopilot systems for both commercial and leisure vessels, exporting Australian-made technology around the world and earning a reputation for reliability in demanding marine environments.
While David Chapman gave life to the organisation through invention and engineering, the Chapman family played an instrumental role in its growth, direction and long-term contribution to the marine industry. Under the leadership of Richard Chapman OAM, Coursemaster Autopilots expanded its reach across international markets, exporting to Europe, Asia, the Middle East and North America.
Richard’s contribution also extended well beyond his own company. He became a strong advocate for Australian marine manufacturing and export capability, helping to champion the broader industry at a time when Australian businesses were increasingly looking offshore for growth. Coursemaster Autopilots was a founding member of the Australian International Marine Export Group, now widely recognised as AIMEX, and played an active role in promoting Australian marine expertise internationally.
That contribution is an important part of the Coursemaster story. The company not only advanced its own products and markets, but also helped demonstrate that Australian marine businesses could develop, manufacture and export high-quality technology to global customers.
Over time, Coursemaster Autopilots evolved beyond manufacturing to become a provider of integrated marine technologies.
Richard Chapman OAM
The company also operated as an Oceania distributor for global brands including KVH Industries and was the first in the Southern Hemisphere to supply and install KVH VSAT satellite communication systems.
Like many long-standing manufacturers, Coursemaster Autopilots has faced increasing challenges in recent years. Broader economic conditions, supply chain pressures, changing technology and the availability of specialised manufacturing resources have made it more difficult to continue developing both new and existing products.
The company said more recent economic conditions had magnified supply chain constraints, resulting in an inability to source key components for its autopilot systems. Changing technologies had also impacted the distribution of some of its overseas suppliers.
Managing Director Richard Chapman OAM said the decision reflects a natural point to conclude the company’s manufacturing operations after more than 50 years of contribution to the marine industry.
“It has been a privilege to contribute to the growth of the Australian marine industry and to see our technology adopted globally,” he said.
The closure marks the end of an era for an Australian marine technology pioneer. Across its life, Coursemaster Autopilots helped shape the reputation of Australian marine engineering, supported the development of local export capability and contributed to the international profile of the Australian marine sector.
A peak into David Chapmans history
While operations will conclude, the Coursemaster name leaves behind a legacy of innovation, persistence and industry leadership. Its story is not only one of autopilot systems and marine electronics, but of an Australian family business that helped carry local capability onto the world stage.
As we are sure the industry will, Marine Business News extends its sincere thanks to the Chapman family and the Coursemaster team for their remarkable contribution, service and support to the Australian marine industry over more than 50 years.
