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Australian marine industry's global involvement - This week's MarineBusinessWorld.com newsletter

by Peter Rendle 28 Nov 2019 14:00 PST
Comanche at idle at Sydney City Marine © John Curnow

There is no doubt that marine industry in Australia is part of a global industry. This is emphasised by the recent government announcement. Yesterday, the Morrison Government introduced the Special Recreational Vessels Bill 2019 that will allow foreign owned superyachts to charter in Australia.

The ability for these vessels to charter will unlock an estimated 11,800 jobs and $1.64 billion in revenue to the Australian economy by 2021. Charter vessels make up more than half of the world's superyacht fleet. There are currently more than 5,000 superyachts in the world, growing each year by an additional 150 new yachts. Previously these vessels could not operate commercially in Australia unless they fully imported the vessel, which was a major deterrent to foreign superyacht owners considering cruising Australian waters.

Further indications of our global commitment is reflected in the Marina Industries Association's (MIA) announcement of its fourth international study tour to California, one of the five largest marina industry states in the US. This study tour is organised by MIA and is endorsed by the Global Marina Institute and hosted by local marina experts. This study tour will be for three and half days visiting a selection of state-of-the-art facilities that are privately-owned, family-owned and managed by the government.

And in Europe the presence of Australia's leading brands was once again very strong at the 2019 METSTRADE Show, recognised as the world's largest trade exhibition of marine equipment, materials and systems. Renowned for its representation of high quality and innovative Australian marine products, the Australian and Superyacht Pavilions at METS retained the most reputable companies in the industry promoting their superior skills and expertise. Of these leading brands were two nominees for the 2019 Dame awards, CST Composites and AMI-TMQ International. AMI-TMQ International were recognised for their new EEL Emergency Escape Light which helps prevent loss of life at sea. The product is the first of its kind, it automatically activates upon detection of an abnormal roll angle and also illuminates when immersed in water. CST Composites nomination was for their Tow Pro Pack, the latest innovation for Moth masts, which offers two Bases and four Tips for different stiffness combinations.

In Spain, the annual Yacht Racing Forum took place in Bilbao with 365 attendees from all corners of the globe and significant support from the local Bizkaia Government in Northern Spain. A keynote speech was made by legendary American professional sailor and technology developer Stan Honey, who shared his predictions for the sport kept the audience enthralled. Looking at changes, Stan reminded delegates that in recent years in particular offshore records had reached a plateau. Whilst attempts continue, many records in the offshore sailing world weren't changing very often. As foiling boats now take to the oceans, Stan predicts that is all about to change. All of the major records will likely be broken and we will have a new normal.

Back in Australia summer approaches and the boating season gets serious. This year the CYCA celebrates the 75th Rolex Sydney Hobart. If you are competing and you need the Sea Safety and Survival Certificate, now is the time to book your course at the Pacific Sailing School in Rushcutters Bay, New South Wales. This Course assists offshore skippers and crews in developing awareness of respective responsibilities. To offer and discuss practical strategies for coping with emergencies at sea. To familiarise skippers and crews with safety and emergency equipment, its purpose, deployment, and use. This course is also suitable for cruisers or those wanting to learn more about safety on the water.

If you are sailing south or anywhere for that matter this summer, you may want to take a look at the latest releases from Zhik. New for 2020 is Zhik's APEX range of jackets, shorts and long pants, made from a highly breathable, two-layer, waterproof fabric with a DWR (durable water repellent) coating and fully-taped seams. The APEX jacket is an all-round coastal/offshore jacket with an adjustable hood, high offshore collar and tapered faceshield that tucks into a stowaway pocket. There are two large utility pockets, a chest pocket and fleece-lined hand warmers.

Aveagooden!
Peter Rendle peter.rendle@sail-world.com

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