2014 Gold Coast Int'l Marine Expo - McDonald’s boosts the family fun

by Emma Milne on 18 Oct 2014 2014 Gold Coast International Marine Expo - The awe-inspiring aerial antics of the Extreme High Diving show at this weekend’s 2014 Gold Coast International Marine Expo have a whole new flavour, with McDonald’s signing up as an event partner.

Presenting the Extreme High Diving show at the Expo is a good fit for McDonald’s, which has a firm focus on active lifestyles and family togetherness. The partnership announcement comes ahead of McHappy Day this Saturday (October 18), which helps families with seriously ill children through Ronald McDonald Children’s Charities.

Expo chairman Patrick Gay said the High Diving was one of the key drawcards in an action-packed event program of live attractions and demonstrations every 15 minutes across the three-day event.

'We are very proud to have McDonald’s as a partner, especially with their fine charity efforts in Ronald McDonald Children’s Charities – that’s a great fit for Expo, which has raising money for worthy causes written into its charter,' he said.

'Many people know and appreciate the assistance Ronald McDonald House Charities provides in times of dire need, but it’s important to remember that McDonald’s Australia covers all the charity’s administration costs, enabling every cent raised to go to helping families with seriously ill children.'

McDonald’s Robina and Nerang licensee Don Stalker said he was happy to be a part of an event which has enjoyed meteoric success since being established four years ago.

'The Expo always delivers on its promise of fun for everyone and it’s great to be a part of helping families create memories to last a lifetime,' he said.

'I can’t wait to see the diving from that 25m tower into a pool just 3m deep and then, of course, the thrilling fire dive too!'

World champion high diver Steve Black – even though he’s considered one of the best in the business – admits his hands still shake before that particular dive.

'I’ve always got to have my fire suit well-prepared before I take the dive – you don’t have much time so you have to make sure you don’t panic, otherwise the first reaction is to jump when you are not ready.'

The Expo – this weekend at the Gold Coast Marine Precinct – is a massive showcase of ‘all things aquatic’ – from super yachts to jet skis, kayaks and fishing equipment and everything in between.

The 3km display circuit includes a vast array of fun and exciting new products, some set for release for the first time in Queensland, some for the first time in Australia … and some for the first time in the world.

Event and Marketing Manager Emma Milne said an extensive list of product premieres – already more than double last year’s number – includes some of the world’s most esteemed marine brands.

'The huge range of new and innovative boats to be unveiled at this year’s Expo ranges from luxurious sports yachts and specialist fishing vessels to family recreation boats and inflatable dinghies,' she said.

'And as for toys, get set for a great summer with the debut of the fastest production jet ski on the planet, the first-release of futuristic and fun personal water craft accessories, as well as power-assisted snorkelling equipment and versatile inflatable water toys such as stand-up paddleboards.

'The Expo really is so much more than just a boat show – we also have factory tours, fishing and live cooking demonstrations, the 12km Coomera Cup paddle race, as well as a heap of activities for the kids and for those young-at-heart.

'It really is going to be a whole lot of fun for everyone.'

The Expo also raises much-needed funds for worthy charities, to date contributing over $50,000 to charities. This year’s charities are the Rotary Club of Coomera River, Sailability Gold Coast, Westpac Lifesaver Helicopter Rescue Service and the Sea World Search and Rescue Foundation.

The 2014 Expo will again offer free on-site parking and there will be a nominal entry fee of $8 per adult, $5 for seniors while children under the age of 15 years will be admitted free when accompanied by an adult. People can avoid the queues and pre-purchase tickets online here.