BIA NSW adds manufacturers division

by BIA NSW on 8 Jul 2008 In past decades the Association had a strong and active Boat Manufacturers Association and the BIA Board of Directors recently revived it, endorsing a proposal from Alan Steber to establish a new Division to represent the interests of the manufacturing sector in NSW.

It is intended that in addition to boat manufacturers the division will also recruit other operations engaged in the manufacturing, construction, assembly of vessel hulls, materials, components and associated equipment.

Alan Steber of Stebercraft, BIA member number 20 joining in 1970, has accepted a Board nomination to stand as the inaugural Chairman and has also been appointed a BIA Director for 2008/09. A set of by-laws has been distributed to potential members setting out the objectives of the new division.

An inaugural general meeting will be held immediately following the Sydney Boat Show Official Opening on Friday 1st August 2008.

This new division has been formed in order that manufacturers’ issues can be more effectively disseminated and promoted to government and the boating community. Some of the initial matters to be canvassed include:

• Ensure Maritime’s NSW Builders Group continues its reform on commercial vessel survey procedures. Proposal for privatisation of survey and new processes will require close scrutiny and input to ensure NSW is not out of step with other states.

• The National Marine Safety Committee continuing its relentless push for a comprehensive set of manufacturing standards and a re-write of AS 1799.2-1989 “Small Pleasure Boats Code”.

• Issues arising from Boat Share discussion paper from Marine Queensland and forthcoming paper from NSW Maritime on the same issue.

• Skills shortages, group and regional apprenticeship schemes and TAFE training.

• ACCC Franchising Code.

If you are involved in any form of manufacturing and want to participate at the inaugural meeting on 1 August 2008 please register your interest by emailing Roy Privett on privett@bia.org.au