Bold claims made in advance of renewable power challenge - MarineBusinessWorld Oceania newsletter
by Peter Rendle 27 Jul 2023 15:00 PDT
Vision Marine Technologies sets sail on a revolutionary world record journey © Vision Marine Technologies
Apologies for the break in bringing you the latest marine industry news over the past two weeks. This was caused by two breaks, to my ribs, and a two-week stint in hospital. Now on the mend and back to bringing you the latest goings-on.
The pursuit of a renewable power source for boating continues and we received this release from Vision Marine Technologies: this global leader and innovator within the performance electric recreational boating industry proudly announces an exhilarating and game-changing project that is set to revolutionize the boating industry. Brace yourselves for an extraordinary showcase of sustainable energy as we embark on an awe-inspiring journey to champion electric power and herald a new era of eco-friendly marine travel.
Meanwhile our industry associations have been busy. The Boating Industry Association Ltd (BIA), Australia's peak industry body representing the interests of boating, announced a new partnership with Ebury, a specialist foreign exchange provider supporting businesses in the marine industry helping them manage their currency risks and maximise profits.
BIA CEO Andrew Scott said, "We are excited to welcome Ebury into the BIA partnership network. "This partnership enables us to access Ebury's technologies, platforms and significant market strength in the competitive Financial Exchange sector, providing our members with exceptional value and marketing-leading expert support."
In Victoria, the Boating Industry Association of Victoria (BIAV) roadshow is well under way and proving to be a great hit with members. Response and engagement levels have been very high, with great feedback provided at each of the sessions. Those following on Facebook will know that members have been visited right through Gippsland to Mallacoota, deep into South Gippsland including Alberton, as well as through central Victoria to Echuca.
Industry members have been very keen to hear what BIAV is up to, how they are being represented, what's happening in the advocacy space, what the future of boat shows might be, and very importantly, what can be done to help address the current skills and resource issues. To that end, the proposed Boating Careers platform and plan is gathering outstanding feedback and traction. Participants have been delighted to complete the 10-minute member survey that is offered, furnishing BIAV with their individual input, that will be part of the collective input for future planning.
And the Marina Industries Association (MIA), the peak body representing the interests of club, recreational, and commercial marinas, boatyards, and industry suppliers in Australia and the Asia-Pacific Regions, is raising the alarm on the pressing issue of insurance affordability and access for marinas in Northern Australia. 25% of Australia's 300 marinas are located in the northern half of the country.
Notably, Queensland boasts over 65 marinas, which tend to be the largest in the nation, each averaging storage for over 300 boats and providing essential commercial tenancy for thousands of marine and tourism businesses, including marine trades, hospitality, and tourism operators. The Cyclone Reinsurance Pool, established by the former LNP government, was slated to include marine insurance from 1 July 2023. However, the current Labor Government's decision not to follow through with this inclusion will have detrimental consequences for coastal communities in northern Australia.
As an industry news website covering the whole of Oceania, it is always interesting to hear from New Zealand. New Zealanders' love affair with all things marine will return in 2024, with dates for the country's largest on-water boat show released. The Auckland Boat Show fills downtown Auckland with marinas showcasing the best of New Zealand-built boats and the latest international innovations in marine.
Set to run from 14 to 17 March, it's positioned to form part of a plethora of on-water activities in 2024's summer, including regattas and festivals which celebrate Auckland's identity as the City of Sails. The show has become known for its large marina display spreading through Jellicoe Harbour, the space flanking the former America's Cup bases. Set in the heart of downtown Auckland's vibrant Wynyard Quarter, the show cements the relationship between this traditionally-maritime neighbourhood and the modern meeting point it has become, connecting Aucklanders to the ocean.
And there is no doubt the NZ Marine industry plays a vital part on the world stage. Driven by its diverse marine environments ranging from protected harbors to rugged ocean waters, New Zealand has had a profound influence on the global marine market. The country boasts a long legacy of marine industry innovation, placing a strong emphasis on usability and functionality centred around marine enthusiasts and users.
Notably, New Zealand was the first in the world to develop water jet propulsion and stands as an undisputed leader in leveraging advanced composite materials. These cutting-edge materials are used in the manufacturing of internationally acclaimed accessories, spanning from fishing gear to superyacht equipment, effectively expanding Kiwi ingenuity worldwide.
Sailing is looking ahead to the next Olympics. Australian Sailing has announced its support for the Paris 2024 Olympic & Paralympic Preparation Fund delivered by the Federal Government. The $20 million fund will assist athletes and their sports overcome significant cost increases associated with their travel, accommodation to qualifying events overseas.
"I would like to thank The Hon Anika Wells, the Federal Minister for Sport, and the Federal Government for their support of our athletes as they enter the crucial final twelve months of their Olympic preparation," said Australian Sailing President Alistair Murray AM.
Finally, if you are sailing or taking in the racing at prestigious Hamilton Island during Race Week and need accommodation, look no further than Hamilton Island Luxury Accommodation. The event is fast approaching and they have some prime race week viewing spots available where you can watch some of the world's best racing yachts sail by and be close to all the celebrations. They are now offering off peak rates and minimum 3 or 4 nights (depending on the property).
Normally there is an 8-week minimum peak rate during race week so this is a great opportunity. Hamilton Island Race Week is one of the highlights of the global yachting calendar, with many of the world's best yachts and yachting sports men and women heading to Hamilton Island to compete. From 19 August the island will come alive with racing on the water, a carnival atmosphere, plenty of events and social gatherings.
Lots more marine industry news at www.MarineBusinessWorld.com/Oceania
Stay safe,
Peter Rendle - peter.rendle@marinebusinessworld.com