Sydney International Boat Show 2005

The 2005 Sydney International Boat Show, scheduled for six action-packed days, July 28 - August 2, will again highlight the enjoyment of recreational boating when the industry shows off the best of the best.

Set down for its now traditional Darling Harbour venue, the spectacular show, confirming its status as the largest and most important exhibition of its type in the Southern Hemisphere, will attract more than 300 exhibitors and a visitor turnout approaching 100,000.

From an exhibitor viewpoint, organisers, the Boating Industry Association of NSW expect a complete sell out, with the six vast halls of the Darling Harbour Exhibition Centre displaying millions of dollars worth of boats.

In Cockle Bay, the fabulous floating marina, always a major drawcard, will host more than 230 luxury vessels, power and sail, many retailing in the multi-million dollar bracket.

Of course, the Sydney International Boat Show is more than just boats. Marine engines and high-tech electronics, fishing tackle, all manner of boating accessories and the latest in nautical fashion help make the show a major attraction.

The Boating Industry Association has pulled out all stops to ensure the show is presented as an extravaganza of entertainment, with something on offer to interest all in the family. According to Domenic Genua, the association's marketing and event manager and a key man in the show's presentation, the Sydney International Boat Show is "a grand day out for all".

"As the Royal Easter Show is an opportunity for the rural industry to show its might, the Sydney International Boat Show does the same for the marine industry and sets out to entertain its visitors in a similar manner," Genua explained. "The Yamaha Fishing Clinic, the Strictly Sail Exhibit, the Discover Sailing Centre, the Better Boating Workshops, the popular Boat Building Competition and an array of daily fashion parades are just some of the attractions designed to entertain and maintain interest."

"We are indeed fortunate in having a venue such as Darling Harbour, a drawcard in its own right, surrounded by five-star hotels, world class shopping and dining and well served by all manner of public transport. To top off its convenient location, we're a few minutes stroll from the heart of downtown of one of the world's most picturesque harbour cities."

Extensive research conducted by the association reveals the importance of the Sydney International Boat Show. The research has shown that more than half of those attending do so with purchase of boats or products in mind. Some prominent Australian boat manufacturers have claimed orders generated as a direct result of the Sydney show exhibit make up as much as 30 percent of their annual production.

The Sydney show is also fully deserving of its 'International' tag - marine industry management and visitors flock into Sydney from every corner of the world, from the United States, United Kingdom, New Zealand, Germany, China, Belgium, South Africa, Thailand, Brazil, the Philippines, Argentina and France, to name a few.

This year's show will be open daily, 10am to 8pm. Admission charges are $17 (single adult), $40 (family ticket admitting two adults and up to three children aged 6-17 years), $15 (Seniors Card holders), $11 (Pensioners) and $9 (children aged 6-17-years). Children under five-years admitted free.

For further information, visit the show's website, www.sydneyboatshow.com.au or contact the BIA NSW on (02) 9438 2077
or contact Domenic Genua, Marketing & Events Manager on 0412 642 357