Jamie Durie, star of 'Backyard Blitz' and 'The Block', will be one of many stars shining above Darling Harbour over six thrill-filled days, July 29 - August 3, for Australia's number one boating exhibit, the world renowned Sydney International.
The Darling Harbour spectacular will feature more than 300 exhibitors, with the cream of the world's boat, engine, electronic and accessory manufacturers showing off their latest products.
Jamie Durie will be helping Pathfinder Marine celebrate 50-years of service to the marine industry. Pathfinder, once situated on bustling Parramatta Road, is now working out of the more picturesque surroundings at Clontarf, on Sydney's northern shore.
Industry identity Richard Pym is the driving force behind Pathfinder and this year will campaign some of the best-known names in boating.
Sunrunner Marine, Queensland-based manufacturer of the Sunrunner breed and recognised as a "rising star" in Australian boat production, will be prominent on the Pathfinder display at the massive Cockle Bay Marina, the largest facility of its type ever assembled specifically for an Australian boat show.
More than 230 luxury craft, among them the finest motor yachts from the boat yards of Europe, the United States, New Zealand and Australia will be on show throughout the show.
Sunseeker, Riviera, Princess, Fairline, Beneteau, Sea Ray, Northshore, Cobalt, Four Winns, Glastron, Powercat, Jeanneau, Sydney Yachts, Bayliner and Maxum, just a few of the world-famous brands showing their latest at Sydney.
There will be at least two world releases at the marina, two vessels being unveiled in public for the very first time.
Industry legend Bill Barry-Cotter chose the Sydney International to launch his luxury Maritimo long-range motor cruisers, and Seawind Catamaran's Richard Ward will unveil the 1160 Catamaran.
Action a'plenty, that 's the Sydney International.
Other prime attractions will include the first NSW showing of the recent victors in the Australian Marine Awards, incorporating the annual Boats of the Year honours. The displays will include the all-round Australian Boat of the Year, Powercat Marine's catamaran, the 2600 Sports Cabriolet. Others sure to grab attention include the Cobalt 220 Bowrider (Imported Trailerable Boat of the Year), the Four Winns 250 (Imported Non-Trailerable Boat of the Year), the awesome Riviera 52 Convertible, named Non-Trailerable Boat of the Year.
Keen yachtsmen will find the Catalina Yachts display incorporating a most interesting vessel, the Belgium-built ETAP 37, recognised by the industry judges with a Commendation Award in the Imported Sailboat category.
Within the "jam-packed" six halls of the Darling Harbour Exhibition Centre, there will be activity taking place at every turn.
The Yamaha Fishing Clinic, daily fashion parades, "hands-on" displays where some companies, such as C-MAP Australia, can actually offer visitors the chance to try out their navigational skills on actual equipment as it would be operated aboard a vessel at sea.
Down at that spectacular marina; don't forget to say Hi to Jamie Dure, though you'll do better this time if boats rather than backyards dominate the discussion.
Jamie will be aboard his own Sunrunner 3700, extolling its virtues alongside a couple of other offerings from the company, the 3300 De Luxe Sports Cruiser (and wait until you see the 'special show offer' on this one) and the new 'flagship' of the Gunrunner range, the 4800 De Luxe Cruiser.
Other star attractions on the Pathfinder Marine display include the American-built Carver and Pro Line breed and the superb German Bavaria Motor Boats, hailed as "the BMWs of boats". Whatever brings you to the show, it's obvious a visit to the Pathfinder Marine display will be worth adding to the schedule.
The show will be open daily, 10am to 8pm. Admission prices 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 6-16-years). Children under 5-years admitted free.
Visitors unfamiliar with Darling Harbour will find it very easily accessed. It is only a downhill stroll from the city centre and is well served by all manner of public transport, including ferries, numerous bus services, the suburban rail network, light rail and monorail. Motorists will find parking stations located conveniently all around the venue, all within a few minutes walk of the main entrances.
For further show information visit the website, www.sydneyboatshow.com.au or contact the Boating Industry Association of NSW, telephone (02) 9438-2077.