News from all corners of the industry's locations - MarineBusinessWorld Oceania newsletter
by Peter Rendle 29 Jan 14:00 PST

BIA launches Go Boating SA © Boating Industry Association
The Boating Industry Association (BIA) has launched its Go Boating SA campaign to promote all forms of boating in South Australia. BIA CEO Andrew Fielding said the promotion of safe, responsible and enjoyable boating was a key priority for the BIA.
"Our aim is to promote participation in boating and this campaign is part of an overall effort to encourage residents and visitors to South Australia to experience and enjoy the wonderful waterways of SA," Fielding said.
Meanwhile Mark Jardine, Managing Editor of Sail-World, was in Germany and has filed this report: "At boot Düsseldorf this year I was very much looking for things which brighten up a cold and wet January. The Boards hall was vibrant with plenty of activity going on the pool, including a wing foil competition and pump foil racing. I loved the bright colours of everything and the energy, which was attracting a young audience into life on the water. The Sailing Yacht halls were dominated by white gelcoat, and looking at the bottom of hulls for the majority of the time didn't seem the best way to show them off.
"The Woy 26 daysailer really caught my eye. This beautiful wooden planing open dayboat looks like a lot of fun and received a Special Mention from the judges in the Best Specialist Yacht category of the European Yacht of the Year Awards. The boat combines a modern hull with traditional materials and had a striking finish, including a long carbon bowsprit for the asymmetric spinnaker. The combination of old and new here was stunning."
In Asia, the Thailand Yachting Conference concluded on 14 January at the Slate Nai Yang Beach, Phuket. Bringing together over 100 delegates and speakers, including senior government officials, marina operators, and superyacht professionals, the event set a robust agenda for the future of the region's maritime industry. Held under the theme "Sailing Towards the Future," the conference focused on the "STARS" framework: Sustainability, Technology, Advocacy, Regulation, and Safety. Key discussions addressed pivotal updates in immigration policies and cruising regulations, designed to streamline the experience for international vessels entering Thai waters.
The Marinas26 International Conference and Trade Exhibition (Marinas26) welcomes Invest Gold Coast as an event partner, reinforcing the Gold Coast's position as Australia's leading destination for the marine and marina industry. Invest Gold Coast will support a scheduled shuttle service for Marinas26 delegates between the Marinas26 venue at Royal Pines Resort and the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show on 22-24 May.
The new Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 455 has received an overwhelmingly positive response following its display at the Düsseldorf International Boat Show with eight yachts sold during the event, underscoring strong early demand for the latest model in Jeanneau's highly regarded range. The first Australian arrival is confirmed for September. The 455 attracted significant attention from sailors, industry professionals and media for its modern design, refined sailing performance and clear focus on comfort and usability. Feedback from the show highlighted the yacht's ability to combine engaging performance with practical features suited to both coastal cruising and extended offshore passages.
Performance Cruising Yachts has been appointed as the exclusive Australian dealer for the full Hanse Yachts AG portfolio, including Hanse, Moody, Dehler, Sealine, Fjord and Ryck. They are proud to announce the addition of these brands to their stable. Performance Cruising Yachts is one of Australia's most established and progressive sail and power yacht importers, with a long history of representing leading international brands and supporting owners through every stage of their sailing journey.
Marine Rescue Point Danger volunteer Nicole Lockie has been awarded the Emergency Services Medal (ESM) in the Australia Day Honours list. Nicole has dedicated more than 24 years to the NSW community, having volunteered with VRA Marine Division (a precursor to Marine Rescue NSW) from 1995 - 2005. After spending six years volunteering in QLD, Nicole returned to volunteering in NSW in 2011.
Peter Rendle - peter.rendle@worldmarine.media