Melbourne Boat Show - date changed to Queen's Birthday long weekend

by Clyde Batty on 22 Mar 2011 This event is Melbourne’s iconic boat show held each year for the past 51-years, and this year, to run 9-13 June on the Queen's Birthday long weekend.

The 2011 venue, affectionately known as ‘Jeff’s Shed’ will house the latest and best boating and fishing gear for the public to view in one massive space. This year’s show will see for example the Yamaha super tank and loads of fishing demonstrations, a huge array of boat displays, everything from inflatable craft, fishing and cruising boats to ski boats and wakeboarding.

A slice of history:
Back in 1961, boat prices ranged from £30 to £6,000 (or $60 to $12,000 in dollars – although not in today’s dollars). Venue was the Royal Exhibition Building in Carlton Gardens. Ads in the Herald Sun promoted the show as 'the ideal family outing'.

The Show opened from 11 am to 10 pm daily for 11 days. Boating trends in the early days included deep vee hulls and fibreglass dominating by the mid-1960s and beginning a trend which has continued ever since. By the mid-1970s the fashionable trim colours included pale purple and burnt green, and a 14-foot runabout with trailer and 60 hp outboard cost just under $3,000.In 1978 BIA Victoria bought the show from Riddell Exhibitions Promotions Pty Ltd. In 1996 the Show moved into the brand new Melbourne Exhibition Centre.

Last year’s popular floor plan is back for easy navigation of the Show - The giant hall is laid out for easy navigation by visitors so they can find exactly what they are looking for.
Accessory Alley is back again, literally by popular demand and even bigger – people loved it last year – it’s right there first thing when you walk in the door. Loads of fishing gear – boats, fish finders, rods, tackle, the works. Wake and Ski boats more than ever – several new models and new brands plus all sorts of accessories. Marine Tourism for information and destinations to make the most of enjoying life on the water. Government agencies including Marine Safety Victoria (TSV) and Parks Victoria – NSW Maritime – 'Here to help you!'

This year’s special attractions - Plenty of special attractions for the whole family: Flathead Fred’s Fun Fishin’ Show for Kids – a perennial favourite, Lulu Kids’ Activities – keep the kids occupied, Yahama Super (fish) Tank, Visit the stage for education presentations by top experts on fishing, boating, marine safety and generally making the most of life on the water. The latest marine cuisine with cooking demonstrations on the Club Marine stand. Hours of interest and fascination – great new boats, latest in electronics, new brands, safety gear, sound and entertainment gear – endless variety.

Ticket sales will be available online soon.

More at www.melbourneboatshow.com.au