Internationally-Famed Designer's Boats Among Many Highlights at the 2005 Sydney International Boat Show
20th July 2005 (514 words)

Englishman Chris Hodges, one of the most respected performance boat designers in the world and a recent settler in Australia, has been responsible for more world famous racing powerboats than most people have had hot dinners.

Now, visitors to the 2005 Sydney International Boat Show, scheduled for six action-packed days, July 28 - August 2, can see for themselves the work of the man widely termed "a genius" in performance boat circles.

Sirocco Marine will unveil the Hodges-designed Sirocco Cabrio 30 on the expansive Cockle Bay Marina, adjoining the Darling Harbour Exhibition Centre, venue for the internal show exhibits.

The marina, the largest facility ever assembled for an Australian boat show, will be home to more than 270 luxury vessels, power and sail, during the show.

Sponsored by Club Marine and NSW Maritime, the Sydney International Boat Show is the largest recreational boating exhibition in the Southern Hemisphere, and along with such renowned shows as Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Southampton, Genoa and Dusseldorf is recognised as one of the industry's most important showcases.

The Sirocco Cabrio 30 is described as a "fast, classic fibreglass launch", highly-optioned and powered by a proven 325hp Yanmar diesel engine. It boasts a top speed in the region of 40 knots!

A centre console design, the craft has a unique hull shape, a stainless steel and teak boarding platform and hardtop and a cast stainless steel dashboard. It is claimed to be a vessel unique to Australia.

Sirocco Marine will also host the Australian launch of a new inflatable boat line-up, offering five different ranges varying from 2.0 to 3.9-metres.

While the Sirocco Marine display will prove a drawcard for boating enthusiasts, the show is virtually packed with items of interest, ranging from all manner of boats through to marine engines, electronics, fishing tackle, water ski equipment, nautical fashion and general boating accessories.

Domenic Genua, marketing and event manager for show organisers, the Boating Industry Association of NSW, said ensuring the show was 'interest packed' had been a major task of the association.

"This is more than simply a boat show," he explained. "It's a tremendous day out for the family, even for those who may not qualify as dedicated boaters. The Yamaha Fishing Clinic, daily fashion parades, the first opportunity in NSW to view the vessels winning Boat of the Year honours, the expanded Strictly Sail exhibit, Boat Building Competitions and Better Boating workshops are just some of the attractions," he added.

More than 300 exhibitors will pack the Darling Harbour complex displaying their goods and services, with many companies unveiling new boats, engines or other marine equipment in a world first environment.

The show will be open daily, 10am to 8pm (halls and marina). 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 5-years admitted free.

The Darling Harbour complex is well served by a variety of public transport and offers numerous parking stations for motorists, all within a few minutes walk of the main entrance.

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