Sydney International Boat Show - prepared and poised

by Jeni Bone on 24 Jul 2012 The move in has commenced already, the floating marina is being assembled by Walcon – for the 12th year – and the first boats are hovering around the corner, about 180 boats in total, according to Sydney International Boat Show event manager, Domenic Genua.

Halls 1-6 are all full, which Genua describes as 'fantastic'.

'We are very excited,' says Domenic , referring to the 260 exhibitors inside and another 60 businesses outside.

Raymarine and Gineico will also be on the marina, along with the 'Hurrica V', the star of the Great Gatsby and worth millions of dollars, and two other vessels from the Sydney Heritage Fleet side by side on the Walk of Fame.

'MyBoatingLife' is the name of centre stage this year in Hall 3, with speakers Cas & Jonesy detailing the highs and lows of their exploits and their roles as Safety Ambassadors, an amped up Musto Fashion Extravaganza with a fully dancing routine, as well as Brett with his performing fish and Super Tank.

In Hall 6, there will be the Deckhouse Theatrette, which will host speakers on every conceivable facet of boating with an emphasis on people and the great appeal of the boating lifestyle, according to Domenic.

'This year the TV commercial for the show is focusing on people and their enjoyment of the boating lifestyle – splashing water, enjoying the view – that’s what we’re selling. We’re selling pleasure and the boats and accessories are the tools to deliver that pleasure.'

The mood is 'pumped up'. 'We’ve crossed that point where everybody is excited about making it happen. People will be surprised and entertained, educated, happy, celebrating the boating lifestyle!'

The BIA has not underestimated the extra efforts required to reach out to the general public and the new consumer initiative will be launched at the Sydney International Boat Show for the benefit of the industry nationally. 'This is about Australia-wide promotion of the joys of getting out on the water,' says Domenic.

The Sydney International Boat Show runs from the 2 to 6 August at Darling Harbour. The show opens at 10am with the halls closing at 8pm and the marina a couple of hours earlier at 6pm.

For further show information and to buy tickets on-line visit www.sydneyboathsow.com.au