Awards to industry members dominate this week's news - MarineBusinessWorld Oceania newsletter
by Peter Rendle 12 Jun 2025 15:00 PDT
Marine Rescue NSW vessel Port Jacskon 31 repares to respond to a boater requiring assistance on Sydney Harbour © Marine Rescue NSW
Andrew Chapman CMM, President of the Marina Industries Association (MIA), has been appointed as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the King's Birthday Honours in recognition of his significant service to youth and the marina industries. Having served as a Director of the MIA since 2005, when it was a volunteer association without staff, Andrew's contributions in supporting and professionalising what is now a $2.4B industry have been significant.
Three dedicated Marine Rescue NSW members have also been recognised in the Honours List, each receiving the prestigious Emergency Services Medal (ESM) for their outstanding service and commitment to maritime safety and rescue. This year's recipients are: Lance Miller, long-serving volunteer with Marine Rescue Middle Harbour; Alex Barrell, Commissioner, Marine Rescue NSW; Steve Raymond, Marine Rescue NSW Hunter Central Coast Zone Duty Operations Manager.
Effective from May, Power Equipment is the exclusive distributor of ePropulsion's full range of electric outboard and inboard motors, batteries, spare parts and accessories across Australia. This strategic partnership marks a significant step forward in supporting a transition to clean, sustainable marine technology. ePropulsion, renowned for its advanced, environmentally friendly electric propulsion solutions, is trusted by recreational and commercial boaters worldwide.
The Boating Industry Association (BIA) last week launched the call for nominations for the Sustainability in the Boating Industry Award, with the winner to be announced at the Sydney Boat Show in August. Nominees will be assessed on their achievements in reducing environmental impacts through actions such as use of sustainable materials and manufacturing processes, contributing to emissions reduction, and/or implementing sustainable business practices.
Tasmanian dealer Channel Marine has continued to set the standard for excellence and dedication in the industry, taking home Mercury Marine's most prestigious award, The Australian National Dealer of the Year, for the second consecutive year. Channel Marine once again etched its name in the history books, becoming the first Tasmanian dealer to win last year and now the first from the Apple Isle to go back-to-back.
Staying in the south, and following the resounding success of the 2024 Melbourne Boat Show, which welcomed over 38,000 visitors, planning is well under way for an even bigger show in 2025. Last year, exhibitors transformed the scenic waterfront and marinas of Docklands into a vibrant showcase of the best and latest in boating and the marine industry. Visitors travelled from across Victoria and beyond, and for exhibitors it was a valuable platform to build brand awareness, generate leads, drive sales and grow networks.
In Queensland, Hamilton Island Race Week is fast approaching and if you're quick, there are some prime viewing spots available where you can watch some of the world's best racing yachts sail by and be close to all the celebrations. Take advantage of newly released reduced rates! Hamilton Island Race Week is one of the highlights of the global yachting calendar. The island will come alive a carnival atmosphere, plenty of events and social gatherings on 15-24 August.
Catch up with all the latest marine industry news in our region at www.marinebusinessworld.com/Oceania updated daily.
Peter Rendle - peter.rendle@worldmarine.media