AIMEX Board appoints new President at AGM

At the Australian International Marine Export Group (AIMEX) Annual General Meeting held at the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron on Friday 30^th November, Richard Chapman was elected President of AIMEX taking over from well known industry identity Alistair Murray who has been in the chair for the past 5 years.  Alistair will remain on the board as past president and director.

Richard Chapman, a founding member of AIMEX who has held this position in the past, brings a wealth of industry knowledge and experience to the position.  He is the Managing Director of Coursemaster Autopilots and Hydrive Engineering and is also the Vice Commodore of the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron.

“It is an honour to again be elected to this role, taking AIMEX into its fifteenth year, I am proud to personally have had input into the ongoing success of AIMEX ensuring continual growth and resilience. I would like to also acknowledge the tremendous contribution Alistair has made steering the organisation through these current economic times and continuing this focus.  I am committed to delivering value for the members and ensuring that the Australian Marine Export sector continues to play a prominent part globally and that the Australian government understands the importance of marine manufacturing and exports to the Australian economy.”

In addition to the appointment of the Richard Chapman to the role of President, Carl Amor, Director of Aqualuma Marine Lighting was elected to the board. Aqualuma is an established marine export business and has had considerable success in combating the challenges of the current economic climate through dedication and drive implementing innovative business strategies and product diversification.

Other directors re-elected to the board include:

Sean Griffin (Vice President)      GME
Stephen Vincent (Treasurer)       Austral Propellers
Alan Steber                               Stebercraft
Alistair Murray                           Ronstan International
Barry Jenkins                            Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show
Brett Vorhauer                           Marine Tech Industries Australia
Jeremy Spear                            Spear Green Design
Matthew Johnston                     Muirs
Richard Morris                           New South Wales Superyacht Industry Association

Founding members Richard Ward, Managing Director, Seawind Catamarans and Brian Gagen, Director, PolyFlex Group stepped down from their considerable tenures as board members. The board commended both men for their notable unwavering dedication to the success of the Australian marine export industry.

AIMEX & Superyacht Australia continue to expand their international reach. In 2013 the list of international boat shows that AIMEX and Superyacht Australia exhibit at will continue to grow. AIMEX continue to develop their special events programme to profile the sector globally including hosting media and trade missions, specialised events and conferences.  In May 2013 AIMEX & Superyacht Australia will again host the third Australian Superyacht & Marine Export Conference, the leading international marine conference within Australia, renowned for its provision of high quality information and relevant programme.