MARINE BUSINESS NEWS
NEWS UPDATE
06 February 2026
Publishers note
Whilst I may have mentioned previously that January was a relatively quiet news month, the same certainly cannot be said for February. We are now back to a full complement of stories, with plenty already published and, admittedly, a healthy number still moving through the pipeline to be produced or processed.
Our team works hard to ensure that anything time-sensitive is published as quickly as possible, even if that means posting on public holidays or weekends. Other stories, while no less informative or educational, do not carry the same immediacy and are therefore queued accordingly. That said, it remains our rule to publish everything of relevance or importance to our industry. Equally, we do cull a significant volume of material sent to us that simply does not meet that threshold.
There is certainly no shortage of news in this eNews. We feature a conversation with industry veteran Chris Soeters, d’Albora’s announcement of another acquisition, and the arrival of a new boat auction player on the east coast. Added to that are new product releases, award winners, successful industry initiatives, international updates and a mix of other stories, all of which have contributed to a notably full edition.
Finally, we farewell industry identity Michael ‘Fletch’ Fletcher, who left us over the weekend. Fair winds and following seas.
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
Vale Mike Fletcher AM
Michael Francis Fletcher, known to us all simply as Fletch, Coach or Mike, quietly passed away last evening aged 92, following a bout with illness. Engineer, a sailmaker who in the past ran the Elvstrom loft in Sydney. Add to that author, lecturer, race ...
Q4 2025 Marine Market Report Reveals Luxury Yacht Segment Gains Ground as Performance Boats Experience Dramatic Volatility
The Q4 2025 Marine Market Brand Consideration Report from Retain Media provides a detailed snapshot of consumer interest across Australia’s marine sector. Based on more than 1.4 million ...
In Conversation with Chris Soeters – General Manager, BLA Distribution
Chris Soeters is a seasoned marine executive, currently serving as General Manager of BLA – Boating, Lifestyle & Adventure, Brunswick Corporation’s regional distribution arm. In this role, he leads BLA’s strategic direction, cultivates key ...
d’Albora Marinas accelerates Southeast Queensland growth with new acquisition and major 2026 developments
d’Albora Marinas, Australian premium marina and hospitality network, has expanded its national footprint with the acquisition of Tin Can Bay Marina, strengthening its presence in Southeast Queensland and reinforcing its commitment to investing in standout ...
From reach-first to intent-first: how marine advertisers are activating high-consideration audiences without a CDP
In marine, buying journeys are rarely impulsive. Whether someone is researching a trailer boat, comparing engine options or planning a vessel upgrade, the process is deliberate, research-heavy and often stretched over weeks or months. This ...
Boat Auctions Online Expands East, Bringing Dealer-Driven Auctions to the National Market
A new player in Australia’s digital boat sales landscape is preparing to make waves on the East Coast, with Boat Auctions Online officially expanding beyond its Western Australian base. Positioning itself as Australia’s first dealer-driven online ...
Female first: Kim makes history at Marine Rescue Sussex Inlet
Marine Rescue Sussex Inlet has strengthened its on-water response capability with the qualification of its newest skipper, Kim Vernon, who has become the unit’s first female Coxswain (Restricted). A Coxswain (Restricted) is qualified to ...
New Workplace Health and Safety Course – Built for Marina Staff, Available 24/7!
Working in a marina is different from other industries – the hazards are unique, and the risks are real. This self-paced online course helps ensure your team is equipped to work safely and confidently. Courses are completed fully online with no in ...
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