The future is now at 2014 Gold Coast International Marine Expo

by Emma Milne on 7 Oct 2014 2014 Gold Coast International Marine Expo - As far as cool contraptions go, the Hoverboard is possibly the most anticipated futuristic thrill-seeking accessory of all time.

It was in the 1989 blockbuster Back to the Future II that Marty McFly (aka Michael J Fox) introduced the world to the Hoverboard – a jet-propelled skateboard without wheels.

Rumours have persisted since the movie’s release that hoverboards were in fact real and, even after a series of false starts, that they were scheduled to hit the market on October 21, 2015 again courtesy of the fictional Back to the Future II.

The fact is: they weren’t real until now!

That’s right! Almost one year to the day before their fictional release, the Gold Coast International Marine Expo from 17-19 October 2014 will play host to the actual release of this sophisticated piece of machinery on Australian and New Zealand shores.

The Hoverboard has been described as a cross between wakeboarding and flying and, having witnessed French jet ski champion Franky Zapata team with Flyboard X to introduce this new-generation water sports craze, the world’s premier new product reviewer CNET suggests: 'If this is not the way you imagined a hoverboard would work, that's ok … it might be time to accept that the future may be better than we first imagined.'

Expo Event and Marketing Manager Emma Milne says the Hoverboard propels riders through the air and over waves at dizzying speeds, out-performing the 1989 fanciful creation in every way imaginable.

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'The extreme stunt show at this year’s Expo will astound and astonish crowds with fearless demonstrations showcasing the extreme power of the Flyboard and Hoverboard,' says Miss Milne.

'We will witness all kinds of amazing feats: dolphin dives, board-grabs, backflips and even the terrifying tornado – Flyboard X will be presenting their dynamic show four times a day during Expo, and we’re certain it’s going to bit a tremendous hit.'

Flyboard X Director Dale Jeffery says his team is excited about bringing this new extreme sport to the not-for-profit Expo, which will feature everything from kayaks to super yachts, fishing equipment to jet skis … and everything else in between.

'The Hoverboard and the Flyboard tap the power of a personal watercraft (jet ski) via an 18m hose, which supplies a flow of water that is expelled through a single nozzle with enough energy to propel the rider through the air at adrenalin-pumping speeds and heights,' says Mr Jeffery.

'The 18m of hose allows the companion jet ski rider to travel safely behind the Hoverboard user, giving them enough space to safely glide through the air and perform some fancy tricks.'

Depending on the horsepower of the PWC, the Hoverboard can travel at speeds of up to 25 km/h (15.5 mph), while soaring up to 5m (16.5 ft) above the water.

'If you can envisage yourself competing at the Flyboard X World Championships, you’d better be at the Expo,' he says.

The Expo – Australia’s 'Only Working Boat Show' – is set to deliver on its promise of showcasing 'all things aquatic' in a 3km-long display circuit featuring live attractions and demonstrations every 15 minutes.

Miss Milne says the Hoverboard was just one of many new products making their Australian and world premieres at the Expo at the Gold Coast Marine Precinct at Coomera from 17-19 October 2014.

'We are hoping to surpass last year’s record crowd of 21,000 people – so it’s a great opportunity for the marine industry to showcase its latest products and the best chance for boating enthusiasts to get everything they need for a great summer on the water.'

The Gold Coast International Marine Expo will again donate proceeds to charities: Rotary Club of Coomera River, Sailability Gold Coast, Westpac Lifesaver Helicopter Rescue Service and the Sea World Research and Rescue Foundation.

For more information regarding this year’s Expo, please visit the event website or contact Emma Milne on 0447 758 884.