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General Manager Destination Development for Tourism Australia to speak at ASMEX 2012

May 10, 2012

Delighted by the new Tourism Australia campaign concentrated on high net worth tourists, the Superyacht Australia has created a strong relationship with Tourism Australia during the past two years.

Craig Davidson - General Manager Destination Development Tourism Australia

Craig Davidson - General Manager Destination Development Tourism Australia

Craig Davidson, General Manager Destination Development for Tourism Australia will be speaking at ASMEX, the Australian Superyacht and Marine Export Conference, about the importance and significance of the Superyacht Sector to Tourism Australia and how the organisations campaigns will interact with the Superyacht sector. This is a significant step forward for the Superyacht industry as this is a crucial focus in Superyacht Australia’s marketing campaign ensuring Australia is recognised globally as a destination that can deliver to high end clientele.

Tourism Australia has supported the ASMEX conference again this year and having Craig speak reiterates their recognition of the significant value a Superyacht visitation brings to Australia’s tourism.

AIMEX CEO MaryAnne Edwards said “it is fantastic to see a significant number of Superyacht industry businesses attending ASMEX, they will reap the benefits of such a dynamic line up of speakers and networking with fellow delegates from around the globe.”

Having Tourism Australia’s involvement in the conference provides an amazing opportunity for businesses to put forward their opinions to Tourism Australia regarding how best to target the Owners and Captains of Superyachts to ensure Australia is on their radar.

The ASMEX conference is now just 10 days away, registrations are still open.

2nd annual 2012 Australian Superyacht and Marine Export Conference (ASMEX)

April 04, 2012

Two days prior to the 24th Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, which takes place from 24 to 27 May, is the second annual 2012 Australian Superyacht and Marine Export Conference (ASMEX), introduced by AIMEX as well as Superyacht Australia.

ASMEX-Flyer

This year’s event has attracted speakers and delegates from around the globe – the US, Netherlands, UK, New Zealand, Turkey and United Arab Emirates – which will not only add international clout to the boat show, but also extend the opportunities for brands doing business at the boat show.

The International Business Lounge is conducted by the Queensland Government, Business Gold Coast, Austrade, the Australian International Marine Export Group (AIMEX) and Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, operating during Show hours from 9am to 5pm for bona fide members.

“AIMEX members are able to arrange meetings with visiting delegates from all over the world,” explains MaryAnne Edwards, CEO of AIMEX and Superyacht Australia. “That’s the real value of Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show to exhibitors – exposure to the public, trade and international visitors and guests.”

The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is also the final opportunity for judges of the 2012 Export Awards to see entrants’ products in situ. The 2012 judging panel comprises five key industry identities; Barry Jenkins, Dugald Anthony – Austrade Trade Adviser, Ian Murray – Executive Director of the Australian Export Institute, John Savage – J.J.Savage & Sons and Ken Evans – previously Mercury Marine and now branding consultant.

In their fourth year, these awards provide significant recognition to Australian Marine Industry exporters’ commitment to excellence. For the first time in 2012 AIMEX has also incorporated two awards specific to the superyacht sector.

Now under the umbrella of AIMEX, Superyacht Australia has significant lobbying power.

“This is the first time there has been a true national framework for the superyacht sector with representation across all states,” says MaryAnne Edwards, CEO of Superyacht Australia and AIMEX. “The ASMEX conference will shine the spotlight on the Australian superyacht industry and demonstrate its international prominence.”

With a new Queensland government, continues Edwards, there is more scope to lobby for amendments to legislation to remove some of the barriers and to progress and develop the potential of the superyacht industry, both in terms of infrastructure, manufacturing and destinations.

During the election campaign in Queensland, new Premier, Campbell Newman stated that the LNP realises the potential of the marine industry and superyacht sector, promising to commit as much as $80m to developing infrastructure, management of marine assets and support for manufacturing.

Superyacht Australia to sponsor the Superyacht Pavilion at Sanctuary Cove Boat Show 2012

April 03, 2012

Superyacht Australia will sponsor the brand new Superyacht Pavilion at this year’s 24th edition of the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, running from May 24 to 27.

New Superyacht Pavilion is the first of its kind in Australia

New Superyacht Pavilion is the first of its kind in Australia

MaryAnne Edwards, CEO of Superyacht Australia, which now comes under the umbrella of AIMEX, says sponsorship of the new pavilion indicates the significance of the superyacht sector in Australia and the region.

“Sanctuary Cove is the only boat show in Australia to have a dedicated Superyacht Pavilion. We are proud to sponsor the Superyacht Pavilion again this year, and believe the new structure will suitably convey the high caliber of exhibitors who are represented within.”

The structure itself is the first of its kind in Australia. Designed and constructed in Germany by Roder HTS, and its walls, glass windows, roof and floor all fit together. Another amazing attribute is the revolutionary “tite liner” ceiling, which is a new style of liner stretched taut between the rafters to give a seamless, snug fit, adding to the crisp, clean lines of the interior.

Importantly, from its sleek curved roof to the floor made up of a cassette system, the structure is solid, stable and durable, during all kinds of weather.

Two days prior to the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, 24 to 27 May, Superyacht Australia and AIMEX will host the second annual Australian Superyacht and Marine Export Conference (ASMEX).

ASMEX will bring together key industry stakeholders: boat builders, Captains, owners, service providers and marine industry manufacturers. A key focus of the Superyacht and Marine export industry is promoting Australia as a key cruising destination, highlighting the excellent refit and repair services plus the wide range of quality superyacht, commercial and leisure boating products and services available in the Australian market.

ASMEX is the only Australian marine export and Superyacht conference providing a significant platform for sharing of industry information and networking, the conference will provide updates on key information relating to the industry in the US, Europe and Asia and will have a strong focus on the opportunities for Australia.

Attendees include global industry proponents from the UK, UAE, US, Europe, New Zealand and Australia including manufacturers, boat builders, industry service providers and key media.

Key speakers from AMSA, GBRMPA, Marine Industry Working Group, the Manufacturing Task Force, Treasury and Tourism Australia will provide an overview on developments Superyacht Australia and AIMEX has made to remove barriers to business in the past 12 months.

ASMEX has been sponsored and supported by Gold Coast City Council, Business Gold Coast, Department of Innovation, Industry Science, Research and Tertiary Education (DIISRTE), Queensland Government, Tourism Australia, Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, Sevenstar Yacht Transport and Ocean Media.

“Hosting ASMEX at the 2012 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show delivers a value-add for exhibitors, with many more global contacts and opportunities arising from our delegates’ visits here,” says MaryAnne Edwards.

Sue Thomson, Boat Show General Manager says Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show draws strength and reinforces its international standing by working with Superyacht Australia and other industry bodies. “We are proud to be the venue of the 2nd annual ASMEX conference and to host the only Superyacht Pavilion in Australian boat shows.”

Proudly sponsored by Club Marine, the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is now in its 24th year and a member of IFBSO.

ASMEX 2012: Key Topics & Speakers Revealed

March 22, 2012

Starting just before the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, the 2nd Australian Superyacht and Marine Export Conference (ASMEX), taking place from May 22 to 23 is a 2 day conference that will build upon the success and impetus obtained from its 2011 edition.

ASMEX 2012, May 22-23

ASMEX 2012, May 22-23

Organised by the Australian International Marine Export Group and Superyacht Australia, the ASMEX offers the opportunity to be part of THE only Australian marine export and superyacht conference and will ensure one gets real insight into market trends, opportunities, challenges and changes in the industries.

Key topic/focus areas include:
Current state of the US Market (recreational and Superyacht)

Overview of The Superyacht Report’s recent global survey the ‘state of the industry’ (report by Ellie Brade)

Overview of the European and UK market

Review and update of emerging export markets

Manufacturing – Australia vs offshore

The Australian Industry – the reality of the current manufacturing environment and update on the Federal Task force for Manufacturing

Policies and Regulation – updates from GBRMPA, AMSA, Marine Industry Working  Group and Customs

Business Strategies & ‘how to’ implement these and maintain a sustainable business

The significance and benefits a major event has on attracting Superyachts and creating value for a destination

Tourism and the marine sector

The global refit and interiors market since the GFC in Europe and UK

An overview of the marine sector in Turkey and the opportunities for Australian manufacturers.

Key Speakers include:
Thom Dammrich, President, NMMA
Ellie Brade, The Superyacht Group
Debbie Howarth, NZ Marine
Tourism Australia
Marco Struik, Managing Director, Struik and Hamerslag
Jeff Holland, Alexseal Yacht Coatings
Chris Briggs, Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority
Alistair Murray, Managing Director, Ronstan & AIMEX President
Key Contacts from Australian Customs
Mick Kinley, Deputy CEO, Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA)
Peter Hancock, DIISRTE
Dugald Anthony, Austrade
Tony Karabatsas, Partner, Madison Cross Australia
Richard Ward, Managing Director, Seawind Catamarans.

Registrations for ASMEX 2012 Open

January 13, 2012

The 2012 Australian Superyacht and Marine Export Conference (ASMEX) has evoked considerable interest and enquiry following the success of the inaugural 2011 Conference.

ASMEX Flyer

ASMEX 2012 registrations are now open. The Australian Marine Export Group and Superyacht Australia are very aware that in the current economic climate a conference such as this is important for everyone.

AIMEX CEO MaryAnne Edwards said, “Whilst it is impossible to predict the future it is imperative for businesses to better understand the current operating environment and where future opportunities and sales may come from.”

To this end the ASMEX organizers are pleased to announce that The Superyacht Report will be presenting the results of their ‘State of the Industry’ paper, giving an overview of the fleet, order book, and market activity, and highlighting the situation and the potential for Australia as a part of this. Marco Struik, Managing Director of Struik & Hamerslag; a significant and well known European Yacht Interior and Refit company has confirmed his attendance at the conference and will speak about the refit and repair industry globally.

Another significant topic of discussion will be the positive progress with policies and regulation surrounding the Superyacht industry in Australia, particularly developments with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) and Australian Customs.

An exciting array of international and Australian speakers will feature in the programme which will be out shortly.

The social programme for ASMEX 2012 will be a highlight again with Sevenstar Yacht Transport sponsoring the Welcome Registration by the ‘Poolside’ at the prestigious Hyatt Regency, Sanctuary Cove where guests will enjoy an evening of entertainment, fine food and wine by the candle lit lagoon. ASMEX organizers have also advised that the Conference Dinner will be at one of the Gold Coast’s well known venues and intimating an exciting night has been planned.

SYBA (Superyacht Australia) joins forces with AIMEX

January 12, 2012

Superyacht Australia, the peak body for the Australian Superyacht sector, has joined forces with the Australian International Marine Export group, the peak body for the marine export sector.  AIMEX will set up a Superyacht division and will appoint a committee of Superyacht industry representatives to drive the issues affecting this sector.

Alistair Murray, AIMEX President

Alistair Murray, AIMEX President

Alistair Murray, President of AIMEX said “This is an important step forward for the marine industry, uniting two very significant industry sectors and it will certainly increase the profile and support available for the Superyacht industry.  AIMEX has been managing Superyacht Australia for 18 months, so it is a logical step now to move to a position of working as one entity.”

The Australian International Marine Export Group (AIMEX) has gone from strength to strength over the past 10 years and is a major player in the Australian and international export market.  Barry Jenkins, the current Chairman of Superyacht Australia stated “The management, marketing and lobbying support AIMEX will bring to Superyacht Australia will ensure the Superyacht industry sector gets the recognition it deserves.  It is important that greater traction and impetus be given to key issues which are seen as barriers to more Superyachts visiting Australian waters.

Superyacht Australia Chairman Barry Jenkins

Superyacht Australia Chairman Barry Jenkins

Barry Jenkins stated “The decision to merge with AIMEX was taken at the recent Annual General Meeting of SYBA (Superyacht Australia) held in late November, with current directors and financial members unanimously agreeing this was the best way forward for the group.  SYBA had been struggling to remain an independent entity and needed to come under the umbrella of a vibrant, proactive industry body. “

Since being managed by AIMEX, Superyacht Australia has enjoyed an excellent profile and promotion internationally, has made some inroads into key lobbying issues and has developed a new website which is now gaining momentum as the portal for the Australian Superyacht sector.

MaryAnne Edwards, AIMEX CEO will continue to manage the Superyacht division, so it is business as usual.  AIMEX has invited a representative from the Superyacht division committee to represent the Superyacht division on the AIMEX board.  Richard Morris, a past director of SYBA and current Superyacht division committee member is to be the appointed representative to the board.

Alistair Murray said “the AIMEX board is excited by this initiative.  Given the current state of the global marine sector it reduces costs to the industry and allows a stronger more united voice to government.”

Superyacht Australia at Tourism Directions Conference

October 17, 2011

Superyacht Australia team represented for the second time the importance of the superyacht industry to Australian tourism at the inaugural Tourism Directions Conference hosted by Tourism Australia and held in Canberra, last week. This event deals mostly with the influences on inbound travel to Australia – popular yacht charter destination, and how they develop the most attractive Australia of tomorrow to guarantee a flourishing Tourism and Hospitality industry.

Australia Yacht Charter Destination - Perth

Australia Yacht Charter Destination - Perth


The conference had a top line up of politicians and industry professionals including Tourism The Hon Minister Martin Ferguson AM MP, previous Qantas CEO and current Chairman of Tourism Australia Geoff Dixon, Minister for Foreign Affairs The Hon Kevin Rudd MP, Tourism Australia Managing Director Andrew McEvoy and Senator The Hon Nick Sherry – Minster Assisting the Minister for Tourism.

The Hon. Kevin Rudd, Minister for Foreign Affairs referring to the tourism industry said that “despite challenges, resilience remains”, he also emphasized the potential for securing significant tourism business from China but that this could only be achieved with Australian’s taking a proactive approach to understanding the Chinese culture and their travel preferences and trends.

Throughout the day it was suggested that by 2020 Chinas outbound travelers will grow from 58 – 125 million.

Chris Briggs GBRMPA, MaryAnne Edwards CEO Superyacht Australia and Tony Charters - Tony Charters and Associates

Chris Briggs GBRMPA, MaryAnne Edwards CEO Superyacht Australia and Tony Charters - Tony Charters and Associates

Superyacht Australia CEO MaryAnne Edwards said it was promising to hear that Tourism Australia intend to focus on attracting the high end tourist to Australia.

“This is encouraging as we need to ensure that we market the fact that Australia has superior tourism facilities and services for the high calibre discerning client”

Superyacht Australia has been working with Tourism Australia and Government to ensure that Superyachts cruising to Australia are recognised as a significant impact on the Australian Tourism and Hospitality industry.

While at the conference Superyact Australia CEO, MaryAnne Edwards and Marketing and Events Executive Victoria Smith took the opportunity to meet with Chris Briggs – Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA), and key state tourism representatives.

Australian International Marine Export Group (AIMEX) at the Auckland International Boat Show 2011

September 21, 2011

With New Zealand being a significant trading partner for the Australian marine sector a number of Australian International Marine Export Group (AIMEX) businesses exhibited at the recent Auckland International Boat Show that ran from 15-18 September 2011.

This show is one that many businesses exhibit at each year, this year AIMEX exhibitors reported a particularly successful show and were pleased with the quality of visitors with many leads to follow up.

Auckland Boat Show 2011 - Pyrotek Noise Control's stand

Auckland Boat Show 2011 - Pyrotek Noise Control's stand

“Auckland International Boat Show has been a show on our calendar for many years, this year the enquiry level has been really encouraging with considerable leads” said Steve Vincent – Austral Propellers and AIMEX Director.

Sean Griffin, GME stated “Whilst GME is a regular exhibitor at this event, we attended the 2011 show without any great expectations. The marine market in NZ has been pretty flat for the past 12 months; however, we were pleasantly surprised by the number and quality of visitors to our booth over the duration of the show and particularly the very keen interest and sales of GME’s GPS equipped EPIRBs. From an exhibitor’s perspective, I would also complement the show organisers, Marine NZ for their professional approach and excellent attention to detail.”

Carl Amor, Director – Aqualuma Marine Lighting was at the show with their dealers and distributors based in New Zealand, Carl said that “the show was very good for Aqualuma and business enquiries increased from the past years.”

Despite the current exchange rate, there also appeared to be considerable interest in Australian boat builders with LeisureCat Australia, Seawind Catamarans and Lightwave Yachts all pleased with the interest in their boats, particularly the multi hull models. The recent legislation changes resulting in purchasing boats and cruising Australian waters for up to 12 months with no GST incurred has certainly been a positive selling point for these builders.

Louise Overall – Lightwave Yachts said “our previous buyers have said that the recent changes in GST legislation would have been another great draw card for their buying an Australian boat, this is really encouraging and we are certainly promoting this excellent change to prospective buyers at the show”

Australian companies present at Auckland International Boat Show included Aqualuma Marine Lighting, Adit Marine, Austral Propellers, GME, LeisureCat Australia, Lightwave Yachts, Ocean Media, PolyFlex Group, Pyrotek Noise Control, Ronstan International and Seawind Catamarans.

Superyacht Australia’s strong presence at the NZ Marine Superyacht Captains Forum, Auckland

September 21, 2011

With New Zealand a close neighbour for the Australian marine sector Superyacht Australia ensured strong presence at the recent NZ Marine Superyacht Captains Forum held in conjunction with the Auckland International Boat Show and Rugby World Cup 2011.

NZ Superyacht Captains Forum

NZ Superyacht Captains Forum

The Australian marine industry has earned its place on the world stage through innovation and technology. Australia’s superyacht sector and related services are world leaders and Superyacht Australia’s presence at these events ensures the Australian marine sector remains front of mind.

Superyacht Australia Chief Executive MaryAnne Edwards said “Attending these events are integral opportunities within our calendar to showcase the innovation of Australian marine manufacturers, and raise Australia’s profile as a destination for international superyachts. Our aim is to ensure Australia is on every superyacht cruising itinerary.”

Barry Jenkins, Chairman – Superyacht Australia spoke at the Forum about Australia as an idyllic destination for more superyachts to cruise and the countries broad facilities for refit, repair and tourism. This panel also included representatives from New Zealand, Singapore, Indonesia, Tonga, Fiji and Tahiti.

Mr Jenkins stated that “the forum provided an excellent platform for the key issues that are barriers to more superyachts cruising in Australian waters to be raised. Superyacht Australia will be focusing on addressing these issues to remove these barriers and drive more business for the sector.”

Delegates including Superyacht captains had the opportunity to raise key issues they see as barriers for more superyachts cruising Australian waters and the Asia Pacific region. Other topical barriers discussed included Tax and Insurance and further topics included Legalities affecting superyacht captains and managing a successful refit.

The Forum concluded with a facilitated session discussing the ‘ideal marina for superyachts’ which generated considerable discussion and debate amongst delegates and will be used as a platform for the region to further develop their facilities for superyachts ensuring Asia – Pacific destinations remain competitive with facilities offered in other key cruising destinations like the Caribbean.

The Forum provided many excellent networking opportunities throughout and assisted in further increasing Australia’s profile and capabilities in the global superyacht arena.

AIMEX and SYBA to launch Australia Unlimited brand at Monaco Yacht Show 2011

September 12, 2011

Australia’s premier internationally focused marine industry organizations, the Australian International Marine Export Group (AIMEX) and Superyacht Australia, are putting their joint weight behind a strong Australian presence at the 2011 Monaco Yacht Show this month.

To ensure a high profile at this event, AIMEX and Superyacht Australia are launching for the first time to the marine sector the new Australia Unlimited brand.

AIMEX and SYBA to launch Australia Unlimited brand at Monaco Yacht Show 2011

AIMEX and SYBA to launch Australia Unlimited brand at Monaco Yacht Show 2011

Building Brand Australia is an Australian Government program to better communicate our credentials as a world business partner and global citizen. In 2010 the Australian Government endorsed Australia Unlimited as the consistent branding approach that reflects the broader capability of contemporary Australia.

Developed by global advertising agency M&C Saatchi following industry consultation, a public tender and extensive international and domestic research. Research was run in 14 countries and with 14,000 participants.
Like Australia’s new branding, the Australian Superyacht and marine industry represent a dynamic Australia.
The Australian marine industry has earned its place on the world stage through innovation and technology. Australia’s superyacht sector and related services are world leaders.

Highlighting the strength of the marine industry in Australia, the stand will showcase a number of the country’s leading marine manufacturers, yacht builders and refit specialists including Coursemaster Autopiliots, Hydrive Engineering, Muir Winches, Azzura Marine, Rivergate Marina & Shipyard, VEEM Propellers and Stormy Australia.  The stand will also promote Australia as an idyllic cruising destination, profiling the entire Australian Superyacht industry and its capabilities.

Ocean Media, publisher of the well known Great Southern Route and acclaimed Ocean Magazine will also be at Monaco promoting the Australian superyacht industry and their publications which are targeted at the Superyacht sector.

Superyacht Australia Chief Executive MaryAnne Edwards says “This is an exciting opportunity to showcase the innovation of Australian marine manufacturers, and raise Australia’s profile as a destination for international superyachts. Our aim is to ensure Australia is on every superyacht cruising itinerary.”

Highlighting the significance of this event for Australian companies Superyacht Australia will be joined on the stand by Dr Nicholas Baker, Trade Commissioner & Counselor Commercial Austrade, Australian Embassy Paris.

The Australian International Marine Export Group (AIMEX) is the peak body for the Australian Marine Export Industry, which generates over 1.2 billion dollars a year for the Australian economy. Its primary purpose is to develop and promote Australia’s thriving Marine Industry to the world.

Established in 1999, Superyacht Australia (SYBA) was formed to develop a superyacht industry for Australia and to establish Australia as a preferred destination for the world’s fleet of luxury yachts.

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