Historical displays at Sydney International Boat Show

by AAP Medianet on 22 Jul 2017 Sydney International Boat Show will showcase some of Australia’s boating history, as it celebrates its own 50th anniversary at the International Convention Centre Sydney.

The Australian National Maritime Museum will be presenting some fascinating historic vessels, including a Nautilus II that represents the early days of high speed motor boat racing in Australia, having competed in the earliest runnings of the E.C. Griffith Cup.

As well, they are bringing along the Portsmouth Gig, a full-scale replica of HMS Sirius long boat used by the First Fleet in 1788 when it arrived in Sydney Harbour.

There will also be historical artefacts, including a collection of swimsuits worn through the ages. Visitors are encouraged to drop by the display, hear from the experts and get more information about the museum, which is also located in Darling Harbour close to the International Convention Centre.

The boat show is a family affair, and this year the Kilpatrick family has been invited to display its impressive collection of classic power boats.

The Kilpatrick family is a racing dynasty that started way back in the 60s, with the patriarch of the family George Kilpatrick. A legend in the sport, his successes have inspired the family, with his children and grandchildren all now involved in the sport.

George’s son, John Kilpatrick bought his first boat in 1980, a 17’ Gilflite. From that moment on, a new legacy began. John formed Special K Racing, and competed in circuit racing, bridge-to-bridge racing and ski-racing.

George’s other sons, Noel and David have also competed in many bridge-to-bridge ski and boat races. Noel has had great success, winning multiple competitions. His first win came in 1985 at the Gordon Brown Memorial, and he’s continued racing for decades, winning the Ken Waggott Memorial in 2011.

George’s youngest daughter Rhonda, along with her husband Tony, compete in bridge-to-bridge and circuit racing. Kilpatrick racing has now become multi-generational, with Rhonda and Tony’s daughters, Melinda and Michelle, taking up the sport. John Kilpatrick’s kids, Sally and Michael, having been competing since they were very young, dominating the Nipper class.

The Kilpatrick’s most prized power boats will be proudly displayed, including Melodee IV, Melodee XI, Nightmare, Special K and After Shock, as well as a junior boat, Special K Junior. To complement the display, there will be trophies showcasing the family’s successes over the decades.

As always, boating safety is at the core of the organisers’ charter, so again the show welcomes Transport for NSW as the shows Partner in Safety. Situated on the upper level near the entry door, the Boating Safety Zone will be a hub of information for anyone who considers boating a part of their life. The Boating Safety zone is a must visit location to get the latest information on how to make your time of the water with family and friends better.

Halls will open from 10am to 8pm, while the Marina will open from 10am up until 7pm. Tickets can be purchased online now. Visitors wanting more information or to buy tickets should visit the website.