Sydney International Boat Show 2006

It's still early days, but organisers of the 2006 Sydney International Boat Show have planning well advanced for the Southern Hemisphere's number one recreational boating exhibition.

Scheduled for six exciting days (August 3-8) at its now traditional Darling Harbour venue, the 2006 show is demonstrating all the hallmarks of a bumper edition. Since releasing the show prospectus early in February, organisers the Boating Industry Association of NSW have been inundated with applications for exhibitor space.

It's expected more than 300 exhibitors, among them the leading lights of the Australian marine industry, will pack the six vast halls of the Darling Harbour Exhibition Centre and the adjoining Marina in Cockle Bay with millions of dollars worth of boats, engines, electronics and associated marine equipment.

For the industry in general, the Sydney International Boat Show, sponsored by Club Marine Insurance and NSW Maritime, presents as a brilliant opportunity to write business, with many companies crediting the show for up to 30 percent of annual turnover.

Domenic Genua, the association's marketing and event manager says previous exhibitor feedback suggests more business is written at Darling Harbour during the annual show than at any other time or venue in Australia.

From a consumer viewpoint, the Sydney International Boat Show stands unchallenged as the largest pleasure boat exhibition south of the equator, regularly attracting a visitor attendance closing in on the "magic ton", 100,000.

"While the association is thoroughly committed to providing the industry with its major marketing opportunity of the year, we must also be aware that visitors must be educated and entertained, hence our dual aims," he explained.

"We must offer entertainment and attractions with family appeal. After all, even dedicated boating enthusiasts want more than simply the chance to gaze at boats. We want Darling Harbour to present as a tremendous extravaganza showcasing the boating lifestyle enjoyed by thousands of Australians," he added.

Major attractions this year will include old favourites such as the Yamaha Fishing Clinic, the popular Boat Building Competition, daily fashion parades featuring the latest in sportswear and nautically-inspired clothing for men, women and children, the Strictly Sail exhibit and Better Boating workshops.

The present gate record (93,501 established in 2004) could well be under threat this year if early interest can be taken as a guide.

"Prospective exhibitors tell us the 2006 show is already the main subject of conversation throughout the industry and among Sydney boat owners," Genua added. "There's a sense of anticipation in the air that the industry is poised for one of the best shows yet staged."

The magnificent Darling Harbour venue, without doubt one of the finest complexes in the world at which to stage a boat show, plays a major role in the show's unparalleled success.

It is only a short downhill stroll from the central business district of one of the world's most attractive harbour front cities, and offers visitors a hard-to-beat range of world class shopping and dining facilities.

The show truly deserves its 'International' tag regularly drawing exhibitors and visitors from all corners of the world.

Easy access for visitors is another advantage Darling Harbour enjoys, with all manner of public transport serving the area, including Sydney's all encompassing suburban rail network, numerous bus services, light rail, monorail and ferries.

Trading hours for the 2006 show, 10am to 8pm, applies to both the exhibition centre and the spectacular marina, where nearly 300 luxury craft will stun the senses of visitors.

Admission prices remain unchanged; single adult at $17, family ticket admitting two adults and up to three children aged 6-17-years $40, Seniors Card holders $15, Pensioners $11 and children aged 6-17-years $9. Children 5 and under are admitted free.

Motorists can access numerous parking stations in the area, all within a few minutes walk of the main entrance.

"Simply put," Genua added, "if you're a boat owner, plan on being a boat owner, would like to be a boat owner or are just looking for a tremendous waterfront experience, there's only one place to be, the 2006 Sydney International Boat Show."

For further information visit the show website, www.sydneyboatshow.com.au
Recorded information: 1300 7 BOATS (26287)
Telephone +61 2 9438 2077