2012 Power, Sail & Paddle makes a splash!

by Marine Queensland on 25 Sep 2012 The inaugural Power, Sail & Paddle exceeded all expectations from exhibitors and visitors alike as industry took to the water for the first time in Brisbane last weekend.

Set in the Southern Hemisphere’s largest recreational marine precinct – Manly Harbour – the event, which was free entry, attracted a mix of seasoned boaties and those who had never experienced being out on the water before.

'This event was always intended to demonstrate how accessible boating and marine recreation can be' said Marine Queensland Event Manager, Jason Plant.

'It was important from the start that there be a range of hands on interactive displays and demonstrations to help people get first hand experience of the thrill of being out on the water.'

Yachting Queensland co-ordinated mini sailing experiences across the weekend with over 140 people taking to the water in Opti’s and Vagabonds. Sunfish provided kids fishing clinics with the opportunity to catch fish, while the Coast Guard provided valuable emergency demonstrations and had several of their vessels open for inspection.

Errol Cain, MD of Australian Marine Wholesale, was impressed with the show’s venue and atmosphere and the potential for future growth.

'There was a real mix of people and it was great to welcome non-boaties to the show – you never know who will be next out on the water' said Mr Cain.

'This was definitely a starting point to encourage new people into the boating lifestyle'.

Cruise Craft Boats took advantage of the on-water access and conducted dozens of sea trials across the weekend while Sunstate Hobie and Brisbane Jet Skis took the chance to demonstrate their products in action.

Dale Koerner from Dockpro was impressed with the amount of international enquiry he received at the show.
'This was a great event, with prices as affordable as they were it represented great value for money' said Mr Koerner.

'The potential for Manly Harbour to host an international on water show is evident. Those attending the show represented a highly varied by relevant demographic for us and interest was strong on both a domestic and international level'.

A crowd favourite across the weekend was the Queensland Water Police Vessel – Brett T Handran. Hundreds took advantage of the chance to climb aboard for peak at what goes on behind the scenes of this impressive vessel.

Syndicated yacht ownership company, Yachtshare, has long been an advocate of the potential of a boat show held at Manly Harbour.

'This is the perfect venue and the weekend’s results far exceeded our expectations' said Yachtshare Director Wayne Woodward.

'We met many genuine prospective purchasers and the show attracted a lot of genuine enquiry for us'.

Martin Flower, MD of Spirit Marine, is permanently based at Manly Harbour and is already looking forward to next year’s event.

'We weren’t sure what to expect' said Mr Flower, 'We have come away very happy with our show results'.

'This surely has to be the best venue for a boat show in Brisbane. With the opportunity for on water and land based displays along with such easy access to Moreton Bay for sea trials and on water experiences - what more could you want'.

Marine Queensland is extremely pleased with the results from the weekend and have already started planning for next year’s event.

More at www.powersailandpaddle.com.au