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The Sydney International Boat Show is one of those spectacular events that means different things to different people.

For some it's the opportunity to look for that new boat, or perhaps a new engine(s) for the current boat, maybe some new fishing tackle or simply keeping up with what's new on the recreational boating scene.

All that, and more, is the story behind Australia's number one boat show, the Sydney International, opening on July 29 for six gala days at Darling Harbour celebrating the enjoyment to be had on our fabulous waterways.

Many among the 90,000 or so visitors expected to turn up for this year's show, will be there to spend a dollar or three, pick up some item either for its souvenir value or it's a piece of equipment needed aboard one's boat and needed now!

For those people there's no better place to start than at the display staged by the highly respected ship's chandler R.W.Basham. Here visitors will find a treasure trove comprising every conceivable type of gadget that will serve some purpose aboard.

R.W.Basham is one of more than 300 exhibitors displaying goods and services at the show, with the six cavernous halls of the Darling Harbour Exhibition Centre "packed to the rafters" and adjoining, the largest marina ever assembled specifically for an Australian boat show.

"Still four weeks to opening day, but this year's show is shaping up to be one to remember", Domenic Genua, marketing and event manager for show organisers, the Boating Industry Association of NSW, declared. "The association has been delighted with the response from its members, who have given the show and its conduct their full support. I can promise those visitors, boating enthusiasts and lovers of the outdoor life that this year's Sydney International is one not to be missed."

Sponsored by Club Marine and the Waterways Authority, the show offers highlights and major attractions at every turn.

Obviously the massive Cockle Bay Marina is one segment not to be missed, with more than 230 luxury sailboats and motor yachts berthed there for the sow's duration.

The marina will be home to the creations of the cream of the world's boat manufacturers, with the flags of England, the United States, Germany, New Zealand, France, Belgium, South Africa, Canada among those joining the Aussie flag flying high over Cockle Bay.

As usual, the Sydney International Boat Show means a busy time indeed for R.W.Basham and the team.

Chances are the average show visitors does not realise it, but for to appear the show as an exhibitor virtually means opening a branch office, staffing it and stocking it for six days or so, all the while maintaining business as usual at the company's main site. Not an easy task.
Nonetheless it's a task made much easier when a company has on board the experience gained over many years by Bob Basham and his dedicated crew.

This year the company will be offering an amazing array of new products, most from world-renowned manufacturers like Jabsco, Danforth and Rule, names as familiar as a well-worn pair of deck shoes to anyone who has ever owned a boat. Hosecoil, and hosecoil systems, washdown kits, deckwash kits, water system pumps, strainers, flush connectors, snap-in port kits, you name it, chances are the lads at R.W.Basham will have it. If not, they'll find it!

Among other new gear from the store are two compasses released by Rule, the Danforth Corsair IV and the Danforth Cruiser. Both suitable for worldwide use, these two beauties represent the latest in compass technology. The Cruiser is specifically designed for powerboats in the 6.0 to 9.0-metre range, while the versatile Corsair IV is fully gimballed and suitable for use aboard sail or power.

For the keen angler, and chances are there'll be plenty of them at the 2004 Sydney International Boat Show, R.W.Basham has a real "tempter". It's the Sport Fishing Combination Kit, the ideal; solution for the specialist fishing boat, comprising a Par-Max washdown pump, 5.0-metres of self retracting hose, trigger nozzle, pump guard strainer and dual port bait tank pump.

And if you think you've got absolutely everything for your boat, you haven't! Not till you visit R.W.Basham and check out one of the neatest little items seen, the type of gadget that makes one say, 'Why didn't I think of that?" It's the Boat Rail Peg, a UV stabilised, plastic gadget designed to clip over a standard 25mm bowrail (or side rail) with two moulded hooks making ideal for hanging swimmers, towels, tea towels etc out to dry.

Just one of what will be literally thousands of reasons to attend the 2004 Sydney International Boat Show.

Want more?

ow about the HowHow about the educational and entertaining Yamaha Fishing Clinic, with the leading experts in their field on hand for advice and tips on successful angling and equipment choice? Maybe the Strictly Sail exhibit, where you can not only check out the best in sailboats, but talk to leading yachtsmen and officials from the Yachting Association, even pick up copies of proposed rule changes for the coming season. Relax with a visit to the amusing and educational Boat Building Competition or the daily fashion parades.

Wherever you turn at the Sydney International, there'll be something interesting taking place.

The show will be open daily, 10am to 8pm. Admission charges are $15 (single adult), $38 (family ticket admitting two adults and up to three children aged 6-17-years), $10 (Pensioners) and $8 (children aged 6-17-years). Children under 5-years admitted free.

First time visitors to Sydney will find Darling Harbour one of the city's most easily accessed venues. It is only a short down hill stroll from the city centre and is well served by all manner of public transport, from ferries to trains, light rail to monorail and numerous bus services.

Motorists will find car parks located conveniently throughout the area, all within a short walk of the main entrance.

For further information visit the show website, www.sydneyboatshow.com.au or contact the Boating Industry Association of NSW, telephone (02) 9438-2077.

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