Marinas 2007 - Aust marina industry conference

by Tony Castles on 24 May 2007 Marina experts from around the globe will converge on the Gold Coast next week for Marinas 2007, the largest marina industry conference of its type ever held in Australia.

Examining latest trends in international marina development and operation, the event highlights yet another aspect of the massive marine industry sector which employs more than 4,500 people locally and is worth over $550 million per year to the Gold Coast economy.

Jointly hosted by the Marina Industries Association of Australia (MIAA) and the New Zealand Marina Operators Association, Marinas 2007 has attracted 280 worldwide delegates, and will present some 30 national and international speakers and a large scale industry trade expo.

Ideally timed to immediately follow the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (May 24-27), Marinas 2007 will put the Gold Coast firmly in the spotlight as a leading marina industry destination.

We welcome media coverage of this major industry forum. Highlights of the program include:

Monday, May 28 Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort, Ballroom
8.30 – 9.00am Official Opening by Gary Fenlon MP, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for State Development, Employment and Industrial Relations

9.00am 'What our Future Holds': Larry Halgren, Florida, USA, world expert in marinadesign and layout, and an emeritus director of the Association of Marine Industries and former Chairman of the International Marina Institute.

9.45am 'Economic Impact of Marinas': address by Dr. Ed Mahoney, professor at
Michigan State University and co-director of the US National Marine Research
Centre. He has been involved in marine industry research for over 30 years.

5.30pm 'How the Gold Coast assists the Marina Industry': address by Gold Coast
Marine Industry Association president, Charles Dickson

5.45pm Welcome cocktails, special guest Gold Coast Mayor Ron Clarke, Exhibition Hall

Tuesday, May 29 Meet in Lobby of Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort (at 8.00am)
8.30am – 4.00m Study tour – Gold Coast City Marine Precinct, including inspection of Riviera, returning to Southport Yacht Club by boat, viewing marinas en route.

Wednesday, May 30 Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort, Ballroom
11.30am 'What’s happening around the world?' international panel discussion
3.30pm 'Meeting the needs of larger vessels – dealing with super yachts': panel discussion led by experienced operators.