Sanctuary Cove Show sparkles

by Kate Duryea on 18 May 2006 In a record-breaking year, the 2006 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show showcases 424 exhibitors and more than 800 boats when the event opened today at 9am.

It is the largest exhibitor tally in the event’s 18-year history. Extended on water exhibition space stretches to 3km of walkways cementing the Show’s position as Australia’s largest on water boat show.

'We’ve got the largest selection of leisure vessels of 80ft or more ever seen at an Australian show and we’re confident visitors will be very, very impressed,' said Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show general manager Barry Jenkins.

'Visitors are coming from around the world with a large delegation from China and media or marine executives from the US, New Zealand, Thailand, the UK, Brazil, South Africa and France,' he said.

'There’s more than 200 international and Australian media attending – the Show really has become a key date on the international marine calendar.'

A huge range of events is clustered around the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show which was officially opened today (Thursday) by the Queensland Deputy Premier Anna Bligh.

'There’s plenty of interest in the Smart State Industry Breakfast on Friday which features Philippe Péché, the Jules Verne Trophy around the world record holder who sailed around the world in 2005 in 50 days, 16 hours and 20 minutes,' said Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show manager Barry Jenkins.

The Australian Super Yacht Industry Gala Awards are held tomorrow (Friday) night while the Australian Marine Industry Federation (AMIF) Australian Marine Awards are staged on the Gold Coast tonight (Thursday).


This year’s event will see more than 20 world launches and around 55 Australian marine product releases ranging from offshore cruisers, sailing boats, engines, electronics, marine products and specialist services. Some exhibitors have $20-million plus displays.

'The Show has attracted some leading marine groups with a delegation from the China Boat Industry and Trade Association, the Shanghai Fengxian Boat delegation and the Shanghai Jinhui delegation,' said Mr Jenkins.

World launches include Gold Rush Power Boats luxury 29ft offshore sportsfisher, Vision Yachts 19m luxury power catamaran and Australian releases of major engines from companies such as Mercury, Volvo Penta and Suzuki. Leading sail boat brands at the show include Catalina, Catana, Beneteau, Delphia Yachts, Jeanneau and Bavaria Yachts with models launched on the Australian market. Activities and events include Austrade market briefings, outside broadcasts by Gold 92.5 FM and Radio 4KQ, a seminar on the megayacht industry and street entertainment daily.

The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is staged at Sanctuary Cove, Australia’s premier integrated residential resort. Show dates are Thursday to Sunday, May 21 9am to 5pm daily. There is no parking on site. For streamlined transport arrangements and admission details: www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au

Sponsors include: Channel 7, Creek to Coast, Trade A Boat, Radio 4KQ, The Gold Coast Bulletin, 92.5 Gold FM, Queensland Government, Maritime Safety Queensland, Gold Coast City Council, Hyatt Regency Sanctuary Cove. Supported by Ford.