Marinas celebrated

Marina of the Year (over 140 boats) was awarded to the 2021 runner up, 5 Gold Anchor Platinum and Superyacht Ready Sanctuary Cove Marina.

Steve Sammes, General Manager collected the award and commented on owner company Mulpha’s brave $10-million investment in providing the country’s first undercover berthing for recreational boaters.

“This was a very brave investment decision that has paid off, providing unparalleled facilities for Sanctuary Cove customers.

“I’m so proud and privileged to have been part of this journey,” he added.

The Marina of the Year (under 140 boats) was taken out by the recently redeveloped Marina Mirage on the Gold Coast, a newly constructed boutique marina managed by GC Marine. Luke McCaul, Marina Manager took to stage to accept the award, taking the time to recognise the support of GC Marine, his team and the vision of asset owner, Makris Group.

The highly competitive Award of Club of the Year was taken out by the 5 Gold Anchor Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron (RQ).

Karen Baldwin, RQ CEO said, “I’m speechless. I am so excited about what is ahead for this club, I see so much more potential, opportunity and growth.”

An industry stalwart, Baldwin reflected on her career in yacht clubs, having worked in them from one side of the country to the other.

“I love this industry, the friendships and camaraderie have followed me through the years,” she commented.

For the second time in a row, the International Marina of the Year Award was taken out by yet another 5 Gold Anchor Platinum and Superyacht Ready marina, ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove.

The award was Developing the marina industries through education, accreditation and research, accepted by Marina Director James Roy and General Manager Jonathan Sit who flew in to attend the awards.

Lorraine Yates, MIA Director and General Manager of White Bay Marine Park visited the marina in April when attending the Singapore Yachting Festival and said, “This is a marina that leaves its berth holders wanting nothing.

“It has restaurants, gyms, a hotel, buggy service, a coral reef, electric vehicle and vessel charging, a conference centre, accommodation and it goes on.”

Yates was also a big winner herself, backing up with a second consecutive win as Best Dry Boat Storage for her Sydney Harbour Boat Storage at stunning White Bay 6 Marine Park.

In accepting the award, Yates said, “Industry recognition is so important, we are grateful for awards such as these.

“We have a beautiful facility in a stunning location, and I am privileged that the owners entrust us to run it for them every day and I thank director Guy Bailey for joining us here tonight all the way from WA. We talk everyday about ‘Safety, Quality and Customer Service’ and this is the result.”

With three yards announced as finalists, the hotly contested Boatyard of the Year (under 20 boats) was taken out by Empire Marina Bobbin Head.

Nicky Vaux, owner, had her entire team in attendance at the awards to share in the success and celebrations, and noted: “This award is theirs”.

The Yard Brisbane took out Boatyard of the Year (over 20 boats). General Sales Manager Nick Maguire accepted the award, delighted for his team to be recognised saying “The team will get a real kick out of this. They are all so proud of what we do, taking projects on from start to finish.”

The Marinas24 Study Tour next year will incorporate The Yard Brisbane, as well as 2021 Hall of Fame inductee Rivergate Marina & Shipyard, allowing delegates to see two of the best large refit facilities in the country.

The full list of award winners for 2023 is available here.

marinas.net.au