Marinas26 Conference Session - Lessons Learned: Redevelopment of Ageing Marina Assets
by Marinas26 6 Apr 21:48 PDT
25 May 2026
Marinas built during the major expansion waves of the 1980s-1990s are reaching the end of their original design life. Ageing pontoons, outdated utilities, undersized berths, legacy layouts, and changing environmental expectations are providing the opportunity for owners and operators to rethink not just replacement and reconfiguration — but full-scale redevelopment.
This practical session will explore the greater opportunities that were realised from a redevelopment as opposed to a replacement. It will cover the logistical, practical, financial and technical lessons learned from a panel of operators who have been through or started the process. The discussion will highlight what worked, what didn't, and what they wish they had known at the start.
Attendees will gain actionable insight into new business opportunities to consider, logistical challenges of development while maintaining operations, planning processes, stakeholder management, improving sustainability, exploiting new technology and delivering stronger, long-term return on investment.
Speakers Panel
James Burbury, Panel Chair - Managing Director, Burbury Consulting
A maritime engineering and project management specialist, James is an MIA Director and member of the Global Marina Institute board. Burbury Consulting advises on feasibility, infrastructure planning and environmental assessment for marina and marine developments across Australia and internationally.
Jayson McDonald CMM - CEO, Royal Motor Yacht Club Broken Bay (RMYC BB)
A Certified Marina Manager with a career spanning superyacht captain, NSW Water Police and NSW Port Corporation, Jayson has led RMYC Broken Bay through a significant transformation into a vibrant, world-class boating destination and award-winning Club of the Year. He maintains his AMSA NC 45 maritime qualifications and serves on both the MIA Education Committee and Superyacht Australia Committee.
Brett James - General Manager, Southport Yacht Club (SYC)
Brett leads Queensland's largest yacht club and its 300-berth marina on the Gold Coast. SYC is currently undertaking a full-scale marina redevelopment, a staged replacement of seven piers and over 250 pontoons into a state-of-the-art 273-berth facility including dedicated superyacht berths.
Julien Pouteau - Managing Director, d'Albora Marinas
Julien leads Australia's largest premium marina and hospitality network, spanning 16 locations across Queensland, NSW and Victoria with over 3,000 berths. With 25+ years' experience in hospitality, marine operations and asset management, he specialises in transforming waterfront assets into high-performing lifestyle destinations, with a focus on customer experience, operational excellence and long-term value.