Sydney Boat Show preparations already happening - MarineBusinessWorld Oceania newsletter
by Peter Rendle 12 Mar 15:00 PDT
Sydney Boat Show '26 bigger and better at Sydney Olympic Park © Boating Industry Association
Australia's peak marine body, the Boating Industry Association Ltd (BIA) is full steam ahead in preparation for the Sydney Boat Show to be held from 30 July to 2 August at the Sydney Showground, Olympic Park.
Following the strong success of last year, the four-day event will once again transform the world-class precinct into a vibrant showcase of the boating, fishing and marine lifestyle. The 2026 Show will bring together leading Australian and international brands, the latest innovations and thousands of passionate visitors from across NSW and interstate, all under one roof.
Spirit Marine Queensland (SMQ), have announced a strategic expansion of its service capabilities to meet an unprecedented surge in demand across Queensland's waterways. Driven by a record-breaking population growth and the upcoming Brisbane 2032 Games, the Queensland marine industry is entering a golden era of investment and lifestyle participation. As South East Queensland's population continues its rapid climb toward 2032, the region has transitioned from a holiday destination into one of Australia's economic hubs.
The Marina Industries Association (MIA) have announced their Training & Education Opportunities for 2026: Straddle Carrier Operations and Maintenance Course, 18-19 April at White Bay 6 Marine Park, Sydney; Emergency Preparedness Course (online); Dock Operations Course, 23-24 June, Pittwater Area; Bird Management (online). Registrations are now open.
Apply for the Marinas26 Future Smart Innovators & Start-Up Showcase. The MIA is calling on innovators, entrepreneurs and start-ups to apply for a dedicated exhibition spot at the Marinas26 International Conference & Trade Exhibition, taking place at RACV Royal Pines Resort on the Gold Coast, 25-26 May. As part of the Future Smart conference theme, this is your opportunity to showcase a new marina-related product or service directly to a highly targeted international audience, gaining real-time industry feedback, market validation and unmatched networking access.
Volunteer crews from Marine Rescue NSW completed 404 search and rescue missions across the state in February, including 140 emergency responses, safely returning 847 people to shore. The February total brings the number of missions performed over summer (December to February) to almost 1,700, highlighting the sustained demand placed on volunteers during the peak summer period. Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Todd Andrews said while volunteers stand ready to respond around the clock, many incidents could have been avoided with better preparation.
Mercury Marine, a leader in marine propulsion systems and a division of Brunswick Corporation, has announced several leadership changes that will support growth in key international markets. Enrique Bolanos has been named General Manager, Australia, New Zealand, and Asia (APAC), replacing Brad Zoelle who was announced as Boston Whaler president.
When Trevor Rees first took the helm at a small, rental boat business in Airlie Beach, little did he know he'd be walking into retirement some 25 years later, having transformed 'Whitsunday Escape' into one of Australia's premier unique accommodation providers. Making it to the finals in this category at the 2025 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards in Fremantle recently, Mr Rees was understandably emotional. "I feel incredibly honoured to have helped introduce an entire generation of travellers to the magic of a truly extraordinary accommodation and boating experience, blending transport, immersion in nature, escapism, maritime lifestyle and the amenities of home, in a destination as globally iconic as The Whitsundays," he said.
Peter Rendle - peter.rendle@worldmarine.media