MARINE BUSINESS NEWS
NEWS UPDATE
17 October 2025
Publishers note
As we head into another busy weekend across the industry, best wishes go to everyone at the Melbourne Boat Show, now open and running through to Sunday. The BIA Vic team this week released their floor plan and exhibitor list, and congratulations are certainly in order. The diversity and breadth of participation reflect a strong and united Victorian marine sector. If the forecast holds, exhibitors and visitors alike can expect pleasantly cool, dry days, perfect for exploring the Docklands showcase.
Next Tuesday, 21 October, marks the Discover Maritime Innovations Conference at the Hyatt Regency Sydney. Registrations remain open for those who can spare the time to attend this important event. The program will tackle climate change challenges facing the maritime sector and aims to inspire new thinking among suppliers, entrepreneurs, students, academics, and innovators. I will be there, and if our paths cross, please stop and say hello.
It’s also a moment to recognise Graham Raspass, founder of Flagstaff Marine, who has announced his retirement this month. A respected figure who helped shape the success of several premium brands, Graham’s legacy continues as the business transitions to co-owners Micah Lane and Alex Vicinanza, joined by Wes McKnight. No doubt we’ll continue to see Graham at boating events and out on the water. Congratulations, Graham.
Lastly, a reminder to lock in your plans for Marinas26. This popular event remains one of the most valuable industry gatherings, and I’m hearing opportunities are nearly sold out. Contact the MIA team soon to be part of it.
We do hope you enjoy this week’s news.
Marine Business News is an Australian-owned marine industry news service publishing local and international news. If you have news stories you would like to share, please let us know by contacting our newsroom via our email at NewsRoom@MarineBusinessNews.com.au.
Stay safe on the water,
Domenic Genua - Publisher
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Changing of the Helm at Flagstaff Marine Group
Graham Raspass, founder of Flagstaff Marine Group, has announced his retirement from the business, effective October 2025. Raspass established Flagstaff Marine in 2014 after acquiring the New South Wales Beneteau sailing yacht dealership.
Marinas26 update
Marinas26 is your chance to showcase your brand to hundreds of marina industry professionals, decision-makers, and industry leaders from across the Asia-Pacific and beyond. With strong demand, only a handful of exhibition spaces remain — including four single booths and one island booth.
Riviera academy advances technician training
Riviera has hosted its annual three-day Technician Training Academy for Australia and New Zealand service teams drawing 30 representatives from the company’s dealership network in the region.
Get Summer-Ready: BLA’s Top 5 Dealer Essentials for the Boating Season
Boat dealers around the country are preparing for one of their busiest trading periods of the year. With customers eager to enhance their time on the water, ensuring the right accessories are in stock is key to capturing sales and building long-term customer relationships.
Simrad Marine Electronics Unveils Simrad® AutoCaptain™
Simrad Marine Electronics has announced the launch of the Simrad® AutoCaptain™ Autonomous Boating System, a revolutionary advancement in marine technology featuring full auto-docking capabilities, including docking, undocking, and short distance manoeuvring.
Spotlight on Evening Star
Eighteen months of construction are drawing to a close at Mahi Boats on the full-custom Schionning 1520 Solitaire performance catamaran, Evening Star. The owners chose the 15.25-metre Schionning design for its spacious proportions, generous accommodation, and proven cruising pedigree.
New Whittley concept model on display at the Melbourne Boat Show
Whittley Marine Group will unveil an all-new design concept at the Melbourne Boat Show, which opens tomorrow at Docklands. The display will be the first opportunity for the public to see the new model as it nears completion, ahead of its official launch later this year.
The endless fascination of the City of Naples
It was the Italian writer, film director and actor Luciano De Crescenzo who famously said: “I have a concept of Naples that is not so much of a city, per se, but rather an ingredient of the human spirit that I detect in everyone, Neapolitan or not.”
Avikus and ZF Sign MOU to bring A.I. and Autonomous Technologies to Electronic Control Systems
Avikus, HD Hyundai’s specialised Autonomous Navigation Technology subsidiary, announced that is has signed a MOU with ZF Group to integrate its NEUBOAT Navi with Control Autonomous System with ZF’s TotalCommand systems.
ePropulsion redefines Helm Control with debut of all-new Smart Control Joystick
ePropulsion Americas has announced the next step in total helm control with the debut of its new Smart Control Joystick system, bringing precision and true 360-degree control across electric-powered vessels from small jon boats to larger recreational vessels.
Navico Group Partners with Maccaferri Futura to Advance Ocean Health Through Cutting-Edge Marine Technology
Navico Group, a world leading supplier of integrated systems and products for the marine and RV industries, announced a partnership with Maccaferri Futura in a groundbreaking initiative that merges competitive sailing with environmental science.
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