Sydney International Boat Show 2006

For six action-packed days in the first week of August, Darling Harbour will become the headquarters of the Australian marine industry with the opening of the 39th Sydney International Boat Show (August 3-8).

More than 300 exhibitors, representing the cream of Australia's boat manufacturers, marine engine and equipment producers and distributors and the state's top marine retailers will transform Darling Harbour into a spectacular 'boater's paradise.'

Organisers, the Boating Industry Association of NSW, have been inundated with applications for space, both within the six cavernous halls of the Darling Harbour Exhibition Centre and on the fabulous marina on adjoining Cockle Bay.

As usual, the magnificent marina display will be one of the show's major attractions. Domenic Genua, the association's marketing and event manager, says the marina will be graced by in excess of 270 luxury vessels, among them boats carrying retail prices that equal (and in some cases exceed!) that of a Sydney waterfront property.

Sponsored by Club Marine Insurance and NSW Maritime, the show already stands unchallenged as the industry's major drawcard, with many prominent industry leaders terming the Sydney International as "the must attend show."

In fact, Richard Chapman, managing director of Coursemaster Autopilots and president of the Australian International Marine Export Group (AIMEX), believes marine industry businesses that don't exhibit at Sydney "are not taking their industry involvement seriously."

Genua said more business was written during the Sydney International every year than at any other venue across Australia. "However, while it is the association's responsibility to provide a clear cut business platform for the industry, we also need to be aware that we must offer a safe and entertaining environment for the all-important consumer," he explained.

The Sydney International stands poised to make history - it seems only a matter of time before it attracts the first 100,000 visitor attendance ever achieved by an Australian boat show.

It has already become the only show to top 90,000, establishing the current attendance record of 93,501 in 2004.

With an almost bewildering array of new boats scheduled for release at the 2006 show, there will be ample reasons for boating enthusiasts to visit Darling Harbour.

Australian-built vessels such as those from industry icon Bill Barry-Cotter (due to unveil the Maritimo 48), a massive display from The Riviera Group, the popular trailer craft from Haines Signature, Cruise Craft, Quintrex and Haines Hunter will vie with the imports in a concerted effort to attract buyers.

Among the imported breeds, Sunseeker, Princess, Johnson, Grand Banks, Chris-Craft, Tiara, Carver, Four Winns, Glastron and Seaswirl will show the latest in overseas powerboat trends, while Beneteau, Bavaria, Jeanneau will be among those promoting boating "under canvas."

Many of the show's popular and regular attractions will return, including the Yamaha Fishing Clinic (always standing room only!), the educational and generally hilarious Boat Building Competition, daily fashion parades showing the latest in nautically-inspired clothing, Better Boating Workshops and the Strictly Sail exhibit.

The 2006 show will open from 10am to 8pm daily, both halls and marina.

Admission prices remain unchanged at $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 6-17-years). Children 5-years and under admitted free.

One of Darling Harbour's major advantages is its ease of access. It is only a short downhill stroll from the city's central business district and is well served by all manner of public transport, including numerous bus services, the vast suburban rail network, ferries, light rail and monorail. Motorists will find parking stations abound throughout the area, all within a few minutes walk of the main entrance.

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