Brisbane Boat Show cruises to wide success in new venue

Visitors and exhibitors at this year’s Brisbane Boat Show have welcomed the decision to return to the RNA Showgrounds, which recently were redeveloped to include a new exhibition centre that featured prominently in display space.

The wider geographical spread of the venue, incorporating three separate main display areas, was a major feature in creating easy walking thoroughfares for patrons.

The four day show which straddled the federal election held on the Saturday, featured more than 60 major exhibitors and 50 different boat brands, including some marques being unveiled for the first time.

Marine Queensland Chief Executive Officer, Mr Don Jones said there many different ways to measure the success of a boat show, but this year’s event had performed very well across a series of key performance indicators.

“For the casual visitor with an interest in matters marine, there were a host of experiences available. They included street theatre entertainment and music; gourmet cooking demonstrations; a kids zone where youngsters could touch and learn about sea creatures; interactive displays and the opportunity to drive an all wheel drive Audi towing a boat, up and down a slippery ramp as well as reverse parking.”

“For prospective purchasers, there was the opportunity to absorb vast amounts of knowledge about different boats, various boat building materials and construction techniques, how marine engines work including inspecting the internal parts in a cut-away display, the latest marine electronics and entertainment systems as well as a myriad of accessories.”

“One dealership, Northside Marine noted that staff attending the show had amassed more than 450 years of experience between them, with 10 staff members all individually having achieved more than 20 years.”

“The show’s line-up of on-stage experts providing free fishing tuition including places to target and techniques to deploy, was a major hit across all age groups.”

“For those looking to purchase boats, there were outstanding ranges of new vessels and new brands released at the show along with some extensive displays of current models. Many were packaged at outstandingly attractive prices”.

“For boat retailers, it was a terrific show – Denis Harland from Coastal Powerboats reported that customers on his stand came from Cape York to Sydney with one person having travelled from southern New South Wales to purchase a Procraft 6.2 metre Weekender that was unveiled at the show. Denis said his business would be flat out until Christmas with show orders and other deals he expected to finalise after the show.”

“Wynnum Marine which mounted a display in conjunction with CruiseCraft and a range of Stacers, reported their best boat show in five years.”

“Dockpro and Seapen said there was a refreshing air of positivity from visitors.”

“Stewart Thompson from Australian Marine Centre had a number of stands at the show and while acknowledging that he had some earlier concern about the change of venue to the RNA, said it had been one of the company’s best shows in years. Stewart said the amount of buyers at this show was truly amazing with similar comments coming from many other exhibitors.”

“I understand one outboard group sold more than 30 outboards.”

“In terms of measuring the success from an industry viewpoint, it certainly was refreshing to see a slight increase in paid ticket sales as well as an on-going display of the benefits and value offered to Queensland by its marine industry.”

Marine Queensland’s next event, the Brisbane Tinnie and Tackle Show will be held from April 4 to 6 at the RNA Showgrounds.  Dates for the 2014 Brisbane Boat Show will be announced shortly.