ASMEX Conference provides industry with solutions

The Australian Superyacht and Marine Export Conference (ASMEX) held on 22-23 May at Sanctuary Cove was a refreshing experience for delegates who attended as the conference was all about solutions, not problems, and rather about what we can do, not what we can’t.

A key focus for conference organisers the Australian International Marine Export Group (AIMEX) and Superyacht Australia was to ensure that delegates were well informed regarding the solutions and opportunities for businesses in the current economic climate.

The strong line-up of speakers included AIMEX President Alistair Murray who talked about the issues with manufacturing and the suggested solutions provided to the Prime Ministers Task Force for Manufacturing, Richard Ward, Managing Director of Seawind Catamarans and Corsair who talked about his experiences in shifting their manufacturing to Vietnam and speakers like Thom Dammrich, President of NMMA who inspired delegates with the initiatives and growth of the marine industry in the US as a result of some key marketing strategies and focus areas.

Erwin Bamps of Gulf Craft also offered an enlightening view on the importance of the buyer and a strong brand. All speakers focused on the positive view and opportunities for the future and shared their strategies for driving the marine export and superyacht sectors.

The focus on solutions was also confirmed by several government speakers who were all adamant about working with the industry to drive more business for Australian companies. Since ASMEX 2011 AIMEX has been working closely with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA), the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), Customs and Border Protection and more recently with the Prime Ministers Task Force for Manufacturing regarding the plight of manufacturing in Australia. All of these departments were present at this years conference and provided industry with the progress to alleviate some of the key barriers to businesses in the marine export and superyacht sectors in Australia.

ASMEX delegates have since been commenting on their pleasure in attending a conference focused on the solutions and opportunities for business and their appreciation for speakers focus being on sharing of information rather than selling their brand or product.