Stella Marine Group innovation and ingenuity
by The Boat Works 25 Jul 2023 01:36 PDT
Stella HQ at The Boat Works © The Boat Works
Since 2003, Stella Marine Group has specialised in the design, engineering, and manufacture of innovative marine products, such as watermakers, sliding tender chocks, hydraulic lifters (swim platforms/step lifters), and most recently, helm chairs.
In 2014, Stella moved into premises at The Boat Works, and since then, has doubled in size to occupy a large showroom and workshop, investing in the latest CNC technology and a team of 28 tradespeople, including their own Naval Architect.
In addition to manufacturing their own brand of products, 10 percent of which are exported, Stella imports and distributes the world's leading brands of bow and stern thrusters, marine toilet systems, stabilisation, windscreen wipers, and wind turbines.
A new addition to their product range is the QS 30-110 Bow Thruster from QS Seamaster, suitable for smaller vessels from 5 to 8-metres.
As Gary Cooper, CEO of the Stella Group explained, "Stella now occupies a large new purpose-built facility at The Boat Works, combining our engineering, manufacturing and distribution into one stream-lined new operation.
"We import, distribute, design, create, install, build, and repair products for marine applications," he said. "With our new capabilities in our machine shop and in-house Naval Architect heading our design department, Stella can fabricate to order, offering 'concept to complete' solutions for all owners."
At the 2023 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, 25 to 28 May, Stella was the naming sponsor of the Pavilions and launched its latest innovation, the hydraulic lifter with integrated steps. Their new dual-use design features a patented locking mechanism that secures the platform in every single position that it stops. It can serve as a cockpit extension, an additional deck, a swim platform or even a submerged platform for diving.
"These lifters are custom designed and built right here on the Gold Coast for each and every boat," explained Gary. "Feedback was very positive, with several sales at the show, and we are following up leads which indicates we have developed a product that fills a niche within the market."
Next on the agenda for Gary and his team is an appearance at the METSTRADE Amsterdam show, 15 to 17 November.
"At METS we will present our new Hydraulic Step Lifter, sliding tender chocks, watermakers and premium quality helm chairs," said Gary. "Being a B2B show, it's the ideal place to display our new products to international boat builders and distributors."
Stella is actively seeking skilled tradespeople - fabricators, machinists, and apprentices - to keep up with demand and keep pace with the growth in refit, repair and custom project work within the Coomera Marine Precinct.
"The Boat Works is a magnet for yachts of all sizes and the expansion and development of The Boat Works has resulted in our own growth. We plan to continue expanding as we move into Stage 5."
For more information visit stellamarine.com.au.
Product in focus
Stella helm chairs
In 2022, Stella took over premium marine chair brand, Navigator. Stella's engineering specialists now design and manufacture all Helm Chairs at their workshop, conveniently located in The Boat Works.
Stella uses state-of-the-art engineering and upholstery methods and offers an array of fabrics to cover helm chairs, including genuine leather, marine-grade vinyl or other custom fabrics. Stella seats have an advanced ergonomic design built into every helm chair that will keep boat owners alert, refreshed, comfortable and safe while cruising.
The Standard Helm Chair features a full 316 Stainless Steel frame, adjustable back rest, moveable arm rests, flip up knee roll and a removable head rest. Mounted on the customer's choice of Navigator 316 Stainless Steel pedestals, with or without slide, footrest, height adjustment and shock mitigation.
The Compact Helm Chair offers all the same features as a Standard in a more compact version. This seat provides excellent ergonomic comfort and safety. Specifically designed for smaller boats where there is limited space at the helm or for customers who need a lower backrest to easily see what is behind them. Featuring stainless steel frames with an adjustable backrest, moveable armrests, removable headrests, and the flip up knee roll.
The Caribbean Helm Chair has a totally redeveloped 316 Stainless Steel frame, set and forget back rest adjustment and moveable arms.
Find more at Stella Ingenuity - The Boat Works.