Delivering Newcastle to the Superyacht World

by Azzura Marine Media on 24 Mar 2006 Azzura Marine today announced a new era of operations at the old State Dockyard site in Newcastle, on the Australian East Coast

Azzura Marine has signed a lease with the Newcastle Port Corporation (NPC) which will open the doors to an exciting new chapter of marine related activity. The lease provides a unique opportunity for the redevelopment of the site at Dyke Point in Carrington, which will create a premium super yacht precinct.

Australian-based Azzura Marine has a long and established reputation in the marine industry through the construction of high performance production racing yachts and world-class custom motor and sail yachts. Its formidable management team boasts decades of aggregated boat building experience, which allows the group to challenge the most difficult constructions. The group is looking to expand and diversify its marine portfolio through this exciting project by entering the luxury superyacht market.

Established and managed by prominent businessman and sailor Iain Murray AM, Azzura Marine wishes to embrace and celebrate the rich marine history of Newcastle, whilst attracting local and international construction projects to the facility.

‘This is a great opportunity for Azzura Marine to expand its current marine interests within such a unique location. Our group is looking forward to working with the NPC in deriving significant benefits for Newcastle and the region for many years to come,’ Mr Murray said.

The global market demand for the construction and refit/repair of superyachts has flourished dramatically over the recent years; however growth of this market has been restricted by the availability of capable shipyards. Azzura Marine wishes to support the growing fleet of large custom yachts through new build constructions, refit/repair and servicing of all vessels including sail and motor, up to 120 metres in length. The development of a one stop, all purpose state-of-the-art precinct, will assist in positioning Azzura Marine and the port of Newcastle as an internationally recognisable superyacht hub in Australia.

Australia is presently strengthening its efforts to attract the superyacht market to its shores. As the number of large superyachts visiting Australia is increasing and the infrastructure to accommodate these vessels continues to develop, Azzura Marine expects that more yacht owners will look further afield for the commissioning of superyacht constructions.

As the anchor tenant, Azzura Marine will not only direct its current marine interests towards superyacht construction, but also wishes to attract additional ancillary support services and industry to the area.

Azzura Marine is interested in more than just developing a superyacht precinct, it is also interested in ensuring the viability and sustainability of future boat building in Newcastle. This development has the potential to open Newcastle to the world and showcase the incredible skills and infrastructure on offer. This will result in both financial and cultural rewards to the area. In addition to this, quality training will form a vital role in sustaining world-class product and service delivery for the site. Working closely with the community, Azzura Marine wishes to undertake a balanced approach to enhance the character and proud history of the region.

Newcastle’s rich maritime history came about through its inception as a commercial shipping port dating back to the 1700’s and through its foundations of shipyards dedicated to the construction of both commercial and private vessels. Situated a short distance North of Sydney, Australia, the port of Newcastle is now a thriving gateway to the world.

Today the port offers an array of impressive port facilities. With its deep water access, clear entrance and purpose arranged docks, Newcastle offers a desirable destination for Superyachts. Furthermore, the port is ideally located as a stepping stone to cruising destinations along the Eastern Seaboard of Australia.

The changing face of the port promises an increase to economic activity and propriety in Newcastle, as well as the immediate benefits to the community through the creation of a skilled workforce. The generation of further employment opportunities should extend beyond the immediate precinct workforce and help support ancillary industries and other service industries.

This is a truly exciting venture that will deliver Newcastle to the world by bringing the superyacht world into Newcastle.