Sydney Brief

Sydney Luxury Yacht Charter & Superyacht News

Major Marine13 Awards for Marina at Keppel Bay

May 17, 2013

Marina at Keppel Bay has been honored with the ‘International Marina of the Year 2013-2014′ award and has also won the ‘Best Environmental Initiative’ award at the Marine13 International Conference and Exhibition, taking place in Sydney, Australia.

Marina at Keppel Bay situated in the popular Asian yacht charter location - Singapore

Marina at Keppel Bay situated in the popular Asian yacht charter location - Singapore

The inaugural two day all-of–industry boating, marina and boating safety conference was officially opened by NSW Minister for Roads and Ports, the Hon. Duncan Gay, MLC, who welcomed participants from 15 countries.

Marina at Keppel Bay faced competition in the International Marina Category from Korea, Turkey, America, Fiji and Dubai and their win acknowledges impressive performance in best industry practice across all areas of their marina business including marketing, environmental practices, community initiatives, services and facilities, customers service, training and development, financial performance and measurable outcomes.

The Marina, which opened in 2008 on Keppel Island, was awarded for its environmental initiative, City Reef, a highly rated integrated plan that has now attracted over 40 aquatic species to the marina. Collaboration with independent marine conservationists and research facilities continually monitor the project’s impact and improvement of the local marine eco-system.

The project incorporates many energy and water saving aspects, pollution monitoring and control systems and other green initiatives which complement the initiative and has been further developed as a major visitor attraction and a learning platform for employees and scientific researchers.

The awards are for the 2013/14 period and based on performance over the previous financial year period. MIA President Andrew Chapman said the awards have been very well supported by industry with 43 submissions received.

Global Marina Institute (GMI) Board welcomes new member

May 13, 2013

The Global Marina Institute (GMI) Board gathered in Sydney, recently marked by the Marine13 International Conference and Exhibition. GMI Chairman Mick Bettesworth appointed new Board member Stefan Borzecki. Stefan is a Marina Industries Association (MIA) Director, a Certified Marina Manager (CMM) as well as founder and builder of Yaringa Marina and Boat Harbour in Westernport Bay, Victoria.

GMI Board in Sydney

The GMI Board in Sydney

After studying civil engineering and working on major construction sites around Australia and Saudi Arabia, Stefan completed a post graduate MBA with the central theme of marina development. Since the early 1980’s he has been involved in the design and development of major marinas in Victoria and Queensland including the Port Douglas and Gold Coast Mirage marinas. Stefan has been appointed to the Board by GMI founding partner MIA.

He replaces Steve Sammes CMM from Gold Coast City Marina. Steve served on the GMI Board since its inception in 2011. Mick Bettesworth praised the contribution Steve Sammes has made to the establishment of GMI and to the development of a globally recognised career pathway for the marina industries. “Steve Sammes has not only been a positive force during GMI’s establishment. He has also been very active lecturing at GMI courses in a number of countries and he has guided the development of GMI’s continuing professional development program through a period of significant expansion”.

The Sydney GMI Board meeting agenda focused on continual improvement of existing GMI endorsed courses conducted by GMI partners the MIA and the British Marine Federation (BMF). There was also discussion on development of a high level financial modeling and appraisal seminar for marinas. More details on this seminar will be released after the next GMI Board meeting to be held in London in October.

Marine13 Conference to host more than 400 attendees

April 18, 2013

To run from April 28 to 30, the eagerly awaited Marine13 International Conference and Trade Exhibition will be hosting over 400 attendees. The event is drawing attention of a growing number of associated events as well as VIP’s.

Chairman and President of the Qingdao City Construction Investment Group Mr Zhang - Key VIP to Marine13

Chairman and President of the Qingdao City Construction Investment Group, Mr Zhang - Key VIP to Marine13

Marine13 Organising Committee member and Marina Industries Association (MIA) President Andrew Chapman said this is a great achievement given the challenging economic environment and considering the three stream format is new to the marine industry and governments in Australia. “The Committee is extremely pleased to have achieved this milestone making it probably the biggest marine industry, business to business event in the Southern Hemisphere. We are delighted with the quality and relevance of the 47 conference topics, the national and international speakers and the 45 exhibitors that have invested in the event.”

The scale of Marine13 has attracted significant additional activities around the event. These include an ‘International Lifejacket Forum’ with over 85 participants from Australia and overseas; a ‘Fast Craft’ workshop for commercial vessels and a forum to share safety knowledge across Pacific nations; all hosted by Transport for NSW. MIA has also arranged for 30 marina professionals from five countries to meet as part of their continuing professional development program recognised by the Global Marina Institute.

MIA is welcoming a number of VIPs to Marine13 including groups from Korea and China. A key VIP is Mr Zhang, Chairman and President of the Qingdao City Construction Investment Group (QCCI). QCCI is a state-owned company with assets over ￥50 billion (AU$ 8bn) including land development, bridge and road construction and the Qingdao Olympic Sailing Center (Marina). Mr Zhang will be one of four presenters in a marina stream session outlining issues and opportunities in emerging marina markets in the Asian region.

Boating Industries Alliance Australia is hosting Andrew Williams, past MD of UK’s National Boat Shows to give delegates a well-researched briefing on how to maximise their boat show investment. Thom Dammrich, President of the US National Marine Manufacturers Association will provide an update on US and global markets. Marine13 will provide several must-attend sessions for dealers and retailers preparing for the forthcoming Australian industry boat show season.

Conference registrations are available online until midnight Thursday 25 April. Tickets for the gala awards dinner and Sydney Harbour Field Trip are also available.

Marine13 Trade Exhibition: Number of additional exhibitors still growing

April 15, 2013

Less than two weeks to go until the highly anticipated Marine13 International Conference and Trade Exhibition with the number of further exhibitors is still expanding. The event will start in Sydney on 28 April, 2013.

Enware Watermaze water treatment system @ Gladesville Bridge Marina

Enware Watermaze water treatment system to be promoted at Marine13 @ Gladesville Bridge Marina

Organizing Committee member Colin Bransgrove indicated that in the last week, five additional exhibitors had booked space bring the total number of exhibitors to 44. “The breadth of exhibitors is a feature for delegates at Marine13 with plenty for interest for the three streams of boating business, marinas and marine safety. Insurers, lawyers, bankers, software providers and small business advisors will complement Australian and international companies such as Seijenen Marina Services and Roodberg Holland at Marine13” he said.

Scott Whittaker from Enware Australia Ltd will be promoting their Watermaze treatment system for marinas, boat yards and heavy equipment wash down. “We are investing in Marine13 knowing we’ll be speaking one on one with people interested in our product.”

Matthew Hundleby from Gladesville Bridge Marina in Sydney was introduced to Enware at the last Marina conference and has since installed the Watermaze product. “The event makes it easy for me to research new products and services and meet my key suppliers” he said.

Marine13 exhibition organiser Kirsty O’Brien from arinex said the steady growth in exhibitor registrations was attributable to service providers realizing this business to business event was the best way to access the key players in the regions recreational marine sector. ”As a new event, take off was slow but industry can now see the value. We are still getting new enquiries two weeks out and there is very limited space available in the exhibition hall,” she said.

CEO of d’Albora Marinas joins Marina Industries Association (MIA) Board

April 08, 2013

Marcus Anketell, Chief Executive Officer – Marinas Division, Ardent Leisure Management Limited, has been appointed as a new member of the Marina Industries Association (MIA) Board of Directors, effective immediately.

Marcus Anketell, CEO d’Albora Marinas & MIA Director

Marcus Anketell, CEO d’Albora Marinas & MIA Director

Marcus joined d’Albora Marinas in January 2011, having been the manager of the Northern Region for AMF Bowling. Prior to this, Marcus enjoyed a career in the hospitality and tourism industry with almost 20 years of experience in the areas of hotel and resort management and operations and has undertaken business consultancy roles both locally and abroad.

d’Albora Marinas, owned by the ASX-listed Ardent Leisure Group, is operated by Ardent Leisure Limited and is Australia‘s largest marina group with seven marinas located in New South Wales and Victoria.

MIA Chairman, Andrew Chapman, said: “d’Albora Marinas is a dominant force in the marina industry in Australia and is a significant supporter of the activities and objectives of the MIA. I speak on behalf of the MIA Board in welcoming Marcus. His wealth of experience in the leisure industry generally and the marina industry in particular will ensure he contributes to the continued growth and development of the industry in Australia and overseas.”

Marcus said: “I welcome the opportunity to collaborate with MIA’s strong and active Board on all their initiatives to ensure the sustainable development of the industry through education, research and accreditation in the areas of environment and customer service – a focus compatible with d’Alboras’ own objectives.”

“At present, we are all working hard to ensure we deliver a top level industry gathering with the forthcoming international Marine13 conference in Sydney later this month.”

The MIA is the peak industry body for the marina industries in Australia, Asia and the Pacific regions. MIA is dedicated to the needs of marina owners and operators of berthing, mooring, storage and slipway/workshop facilities connected to sailing, cruising and general boating.

Record number of 96 Speakers to attend Marine13 Conference

April 08, 2013

To take place in Sydney at the end of this month, the highly anticipated Marine13 International Conference will feature a record number of 96 speakers, coming from nine nations. All 47 sessions and the 96 speakers from Australia, Asia, North America as well as UK/Europe have now been confirmed.

Chairman of the Boating Industries Alliance Australia Darren Vaux

Chairman of the Boating Industries Alliance Australia Darren Vaux

Chairman of the Boating Industries Alliance Australia Darren Vaux said the number and quality of speakers reflected the scale and importance of Marine13 as a landmark forum for the recreational marine sector in Australia and the wider region. “The planning and investment in ensuring session topics and speakers are targeted to the issues and needs of the boating sector has been an extensive 15 month process. I am now extremely pleased to say that what we have in place is a compelling offer for businesses and government agencies wanting to discuss, plan and develop effective boating strategies for the future.”

The range of speakers is extensive including: Jean Murray, Canadian Safe Boating Council; John Leman, International Marina Consultants, Darren Finkelstein, St Kilda Boat Sales; John Fladun, Australian Maritime Safety Authority; Zhenan Zhang, Quindao City Construction Investment Group and Graham Raspass, Sailtime Australia and New Zealand.

Jean Murray - one of the speakers to attend Marine13

Jean Murray - one of the speakers to attend Marine13

Plenary session speakers at Marine13 will address big picture challenges such as changing demographics, the move to on-line business and engaging future boaters. The three streams of boating businesses, marinas and boating safety will drill down on specific topics across 37 sessions. Investment in boat shows, fast tracking your marina re-development and lifejackets – a global challenge to prevent loss of life, are just a sample of the topics to be discussed by the extensive list of qualified speakers from across the globe. Marine13 has also attracted associated events including an International Lifejacket Forum, Fast Craft workshop and Pacific Nations Workshops.

Online registration is still open for Marine13 to be held 28-30 April including multiple delegate registration and day rate incentives.

Exceptional super yacht MASTEKA 2 available for charter in FIJI and the Pacific

April 08, 2013

One of the most beautiful yacht charter destination, FIJI, has recently welcomed a new vessel, now available for luxury rent: Motor Yacht MASTEKA 2. Elegant and well suited to cruise the South Pacific waters, Masteka 2 yacht is exceptionally seaworthy with expedition capabilities. She is available for charter in Fiji, the Pacific Islands as well as Australia for US$125,000.00 per week plus expenses, with accommodation in five lovely cabins.

MASTEKA 2 - Main

MASTEKA 2 - Main

Launched in 2009, Masteka 2 yacht was styled by Dubois, which is reflected in her elegant style, comfort and functionality. Twelve charter guests will find excellent accommodation in five luxurious cabins, and can relax in one lower and one upper lounge, enormous open deck areas spanning 3 levels of the vessel. She was nominated for the Super Yacht of the Year Award in 2009, in the 30-40 m category, which manifest her exceptional qualities.

MASTEKA 2 - Jacuzzi on fordeck

MASTEKA 2 - Jacuzzi on fordeck

Available for charter within Australia and the Pacific Islands, luxury yacht Masteka 2 will operate in some of the Pacific’s most breathtaking charter locations, such as Fiji, Vanuatu and New Caledonia, Sydney, The Whitsundays, The Great Barrier Reef and the Kimberley.

MASTEKA 2 - Main salon

MASTEKA 2 - Main salon

A sense of over engineering that permeates the yacht, provides Masteka 2 with an outstanding sea-keeping ability and expedition qualities. She was constructed to Bureau Veritas Classification Code, 1 Charter Yacht – Motor – C+ Hull & Machinery – Unrestricted Navigation, coupled with Australian NSW maritime, 1C & 1D survey, which makes her exceptionally sage, strong and capable. Services by 2 onboard tenders, the vessel is well equipped to cater for the most discerning charter guests.

MASTEKA 2 - Master Cabin

MASTEKA 2 - Master Cabin

Thanks to her cruising range of up to 3000 nautical miles, charter yacht Masteka 2 has huge capabilities for charter clients, especially those who wish to cruise the South Pacific and remote destinations, including the Kimberley, which are only seldom offered on yachts of this caliber.

MASTEKA 2 - Twin Cabin 2

MASTEKA 2 - Twin Cabin 2

FIJI YACHT CHARTERS

A spectacular yacht charter destination for those in love with beautiful scenery, diving, snorkelling and relaxing on the sun. Fiji is one of the most beautiful places in the South Pacific, with over 300 islands offering countless number of diving sites for you to enjoy. Fiji is all of the images of the tropical island paradise you have ever imagined, while planning your charter vacation around the South Pacific. You will be greeted by gentle warm breeze, crystal clear waters on a deserted beach where you can relax in the shade of a swaying palm. Friendly locals will make sure you have the most relaxing time in this unspoiled corner of the world.

Masteka 2 superyacht in Fiji

Masteka 2 superyacht in Fiji

The islands have an interesting blend of cultures and colours with plenty on offer to all charter guests. Great place to start your charter vacation in Fiji is Port Denarau, about 15 minutes form the Nadi International Airport. Yasawas and Mamanucas Islands are a great destination for a 7 to 10 day charter, providing smooth sailing and pleasant dry sunny weather, as well as easy diving and good snorkelling. In the Yasawa Group you can swim with the Manta Rays or anchor in the turquoise water of the famous Blue Lagoon.

Diving in Fiji - Photo courtesy of Masteka 2 yacht

Diving in Fiji - Photo courtesy of Masteka 2 yacht

The Vatu-I-Ra Channel boasts some of Fiji’s best dives and Lomaiviti Group’s Gau is well known for its shark dives. Savusavu is a charming little town with volcanic activity producing hot springs, as well as shops and a market for fresh provisions. Lau Group can be described as FIJI’s hidden paradise with little tourism and one of the most traditional areas. You will come across some of the most breathtaking scenery visiting Vanua Balavu Island while cruising on your preferred charter yacht.

Pristine waters of Fiji - Photo courtesy of Masteka 2 yacht

Pristine waters of Fiji - Photo courtesy of Masteka 2 yacht

For some excitement, visit the Bega Lagoon, offering one of the world’s most highly recommended shark dives, where Tiger and Bull sharks are seen daily. In addition, you might have a chance to watch people of Bega known for their ability to fire walk over hot red rocks. If you are keen on diving, Kadavu is a must site to travel to. There are huge coral gardens, turtles, large pelagic, schooling Barracudas and Mantas.

Photo courtesy of charter yacht Masteka 2

Photo courtesy of charter yacht Masteka 2

For more information about chartering yacht Masteka 2 or any other yacht in the Pacific or Fiji, please contact our professional charter brokers here.

Organising Committee of Marine13 Releases Day Delegate Incentive

April 04, 2013

Set to run in Sydney from April 28 to 30, the Marine13 International Conference and Exhibition will start in only three weeks. The Organising Committee has just presented a day pass incentive for those wishing to take part at the last minute and would like to participate in the conference sessions and the exhibition.

Committee member and President of the Marina Industry Association Mr Andrew Chapman

Committee member and President of the Marina Industry Association Mr Andrew Chapman

While full Marine13 delegate registration is $1,080 (member rate); a one day pass is $490 or $880 for two, one day, transferable passes. These are ‘no frills’ options for industry and government personnel that do not want to participate in the events social and networking programs.

Committee member and President of the Marina Industry Association Mr Andrew Chapman said the Committee noted the strong interest in attending conference only sessions plus the exhibition.“ Marine13 has a world class conference program comprising 47 different sessions across three streams. I expect all delegates will take away from the conference new information and knowledge to make their workplaces more productive. Additionally the event is on target to have over 55 exhibitors in the one room, providing delegates with an extremely cost effectively way of assessing products and services that are used in their businesses. The just released day pass package is a must for those still thinking about attending Marine13 but who do not want the full conference package”.

Less than 4 weeks to go until Marine13 Conference

April 02, 2013

With less than 4 weeks to go, the Marine13 Welcome Reception will launch two full days packed with conference sessions as well as exhibition viewings on Sunday, April 28. The event will see the boating, marina and safety industries gather together under the theme of Boating for the Future to address the issues directing the course for the industry for the upcoming five years.

Marine13


Whether it be hearing how to embrace the world of online selling in a virtual retail outlet that complements one’s show room, chandlery or brokerage forecourt; learning how best to maximise one’s return on boat show investment; understanding the vital role one has to play in growing participation in boating; or how to develop and maintain world-class customer relationships, there is something for every sector of the boating industry at Marine13.

As a must-attend event, Marine13 will be one of the most important for the boating industry in Australia in 2013, providing a diverse, but focused, portfolio of straight forward business advice, take-away tools and inspiration to develop and sustain one’s business, connect with the boating community and see boating thrive as a leading recreational activity.

Joining the boating industry delegates will be leaders in safety from some of the major boating nations in the world, coming together to address the conference on subjects ranging from online education through to the importance of marine communications. The safety stream will then follow-on from Marine13 with ‘extra’ events that are free for conference attendees that will include an International Lifejacket Forum and Fast Craft Workshop on 1 May.

New speakers and new registration option for Marine13

March 18, 2013

The Marine13 International Conference and Trade Exhibition is set to be the most important business-to-business event for the marine industry in Australia as well as the SE Asia/SW Pacific region in 2013. The event will feature an expansive program of over 50 sessions, taking place between 28 and 30 April, 2013.

Marine13

New speakers announced

Stephen Forth, SapientNitro

Helping to demystify and encourage use of the latest technology and ideas in social networking – a powerful marketing and communications medium that all industries must embrace – is Stephen Forth, MD of leading creative agency SapientNitro. With clients ranging from major multinationals such as Unilever to the boating industry’s own BCF, SapientNitro excels in ‘idea engineering’, delivering communication solutions using all forms of technology and media.

Stephen Forth

Stephen Forth

Billy Kirkley, Clicks2Order

Demonstrating the use of viral video marketing in generating sales will be digital strategist Billy Kirkley of Clicks2Orders, currently providing support with digital media campaigns for companies including BMW, Audi, Suncorp, CISCO and the AFL. An active member of the YouTube community, with two professional YouTube Partnership Channels, Billy’s workshop-style conference session will share his experience and knowledge on how video is shaping the way businesses engage with their customers online.

Billy Kirkley

Billy Kirkley

New day registration option

With strong demand from boating businesses to send multiple delegates to the Marine13 conference sessions – and to visit the trade exhibition of leading suppliers and agencies – day registrations are now available for delegates unable to commit to two full days at Marine13. While this means one will have to decide which of the 25 high-value sessions each day to miss, it does mean he can attend and be a part of Marine13 with only one day away from the office, showroom, marina or yard.

Day registrations are available for Monday 29 April and Tuesday 30 April priced at $490 per registration, including all delegate materials, refreshments, lunch and conference and trade exhibition access.

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