Conference postponed, awards proceed
The Marina Industry Association (MIA) announces that the continuing uncertainty around border closures has resulted in the postponement of Marinas21.
12 February 2021
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Scheduled for 24–25 May 2021, the Marinas21 International Conference and Trade Show will now take place from 23–24 May 2022.
Mike Harvey, who has chaired the conference organising committee since 2007 said, “We are very disappointed to be postponing, as all in the industry were really looking forward to catching up in person.”
“Following long border closures throughout 2020, the past few months have seen snap lockdowns and regional closures, demonstrating the uncertainty that we are likely to face until the vaccination rol-out is well underway.
“We believe that it is in the best interests of the Association and exhibitors, who will invest significant resources in preparing for the event, to defer to a time when we believe there will be greater certainty and confidence around attendance and travel.”
Marinas22 will follow the 2022 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.
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The event will comprise the Welcome Reception on Sunday 22 May and a Study Tour on Wednesday 25 May. The event will be held at the JW Marriott Surfers Paradise Resort.
Andrew Chapman, MIA President commented: “We are very proud of the events we have run over the years and believe we have always delivered a great outcome for our members, delegates, exhibitors, sponsors and event partners.”
“The board believes that deferral of the event will give us greater confidence in delivering a high-quality, disruption-free event; one where we can maximise delegate attendance.”
MIA sponsor and regular exhibitor John Spragg, who is President Australasia and Middle East of Bellingham Marine, said: “This is the key event for Bellingham in this region, and while it is disappointing that the event will not take place in 2021, it is the right decision.”
“We put a lot of work into these shows and my preference is to exhibit at an event where we know attendance will be strong, so we look forward to 2022.”
The Club Marine Marina of the Year Awards will proceed and will be held on Tuesday 25 May as planned.
Suzanne Davies, MIA CEO said: “We are working on a format for the awards where we hope to coordinate meetings in various regions before beaming everyone together virtually for an awards presentation over a few drinks.”
“Keep the afternoon and early evening free and we will be in touch soon with more details.”
The MIA understands members will be disappointed and remains committed to keeping the industry connected and informed throughout 2021.
Further information on the awards and the categories can be found at marinas.net.au.
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