Heavy hitters open Gold Coast Show

The 7th edition of the newly named and rescheduled Gold Coast International Boat Show & Marine Expo began with a loud horn and warm welcome from industry and official identities.

Written by Jeni Bone
Photography by Jeni Bone

18 March 2017

Industry luminaries, sponsors, exhibitors, organisers and media gathered for the official opening of the 7th edition of the Gold Coast International Boat Show & Marine Expo. In sultry conditions, with storms looming, crowds lined up at the gates Friday 17 March, ahead of the first day of the event.

A record number of exhibitors and boats on water were on show, including various Australian premieres in power boats, sailing boats, accessories and marine electronics.

The award-winning boat show at Coomera on Queensland’s Gold Coast, running 17 to 19 March aims to break all its previous records not just in the number of new releases but also in terms of boats for sale and exhibitors on display.

“Boating enthusiasts will be able see it all first here at Queensland’s biggest boat show,” said Event & Marketing Manager Emma Brown.

“We have over 600 boats for sale on our just-expanded waterfront precinct and across a giant 3km display circuit on the land,” she said. “There is also a vast array of engines, accessories and electronics, live entertainment and boating education every 15 minutes across three fun-filled days.”

Despite the heat, visitors lined up from 9am for the first day of the event.

Stuart Robert MP, Member for Fadden Qld and Stephen Milne at the official opening.

Howard Glenn, National CEO of the BIA, Michael Hill of NAB, Pat Gay GC City Marina, and Stuart Robert at the official opening.

And the hooter sounds . . .

Boats line the marina.

Yamaha Supertank draws the crowds.

Steve Ackerie from Stefan Boating World applauded organisers for moving the boat show forward to March when boating is top of mind for those looking to repair, repower or refit their vessel and its systems and have the work completed in time for the following boating season.

“There are more exhibitors, more people and more choices in 2017 than ever before,” he said.

Craig Winch from manufacturer Highgate Engineers said his team looked forward to the Gold Coast boat show every year. “The fact this is the first major boat show for the year means there will be plenty of new designs for visitors to come and see,” he said.

“We have some exciting new concepts and we look forward to catching up with everyone and sharing them with our suppliers, our past customers and our future customers as well.”

Mrs Brown said the Gold Coast International Boat Show’s aggressive marketing campaign will confirm the city’s credentials as Australia’s boating industry capital.

“We look forward to welcoming our boating community and families who are looking to get out on the water and enjoy all the rich and relaxing rewards that only boating can offer.”

See it all at Expo!

“Visitors will be able to come to the Gold Coast Marine Precinct at Coomera and discover everything from luxury motor yachts to sailing catamarans, engines and accessories to tenders and trailer boats, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards to jet skis and fishing equipment … and everything else in between.

“Queensland’s largest boat show is going to be an incredible experience and you’ll definitely need more than one day to experience and enjoy all that there is to see and do.”

www.gcboatshow.com.au

Previous article

Riley branches into new products

Next article

Scientists mobilise to halt bleaching