MARINE BUSINESS NEWS
NEWS UPDATE
06 June 2025
Publishers note
Registrations are now open for the Marinas26 International Conference and Trade Exhibition, taking place 25–26 May 2026 at the Royal Pines Resort on the Gold Coast. If you're in the marine industry—whether an owner, operator or supplier—this is the event to have on your radar.
With 80% of exhibition space already sold and delegate numbers expected to surpass the record-breaking Marinas24, Marinas26 is shaping up to be their biggest and most connected event yet. As MIA CEO Suzanne Davies noted, having everything under one roof at the Royal Pines Resort creates a uniquely immersive experience for all involved.
Given the strong momentum we've seen recently—from the MIA Awards to ASMEX and the Sanctuary Cove Show—it’s probably wise to start locking in your 2026 calendar now.
Also worth noting: both the BIA and Australian Sailing have opened nominations for their respective award seasons. You’ll find all the details in this issue or over on our Marine Business News website.
And lastly, as winter makes itself felt across much of the country, a reminder to all boaties—keep your cabins well-ventilated to stay safe during the colder months.
I 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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Marinas26. One Year to Go. Registrations Open!
The Marina Industries Association (MIA) has announced that registrations for the Marinas26 International Conference and Trade Exhibition (Marinas26) are now open! Taking place on May 25th and 26th, 2026, at the Royal Pines Resort on the Gold Coast, Marinas26 is a must-attend event for marina owners, operators, and suppliers.
BIA launches nominations for 2025 Apprentice of the Year Awards
The Boating Industry Association Ltd (BIA) has launched the 2025 BIA Apprentice of the Year Awards, aimed at recognising the exceptional contributions of apprentices in the marine industry and highlighting the importance of training and career development within the sector.
Nominations Open for 2025 Australian Sailing Awards
Nominations are now open for the 2025 Australian Sailing State and National Awards, with the annual state events set to recognise clubs and members in all States and Territories for their outstanding achievements and contributions to the sailing community over the past year.
Superyacht Crew Scholarship launched to inspire the next generation with Bryce Lawrence named as inaugural recipient
The Australian marine industry united in celebration and purpose at the 2025 Australian Marine Industry Awards, not only recognising excellence across the sector but also unveiling a new initiative designed to foster the future of the industry – the Superyacht Crew Scholarship.
Young Professionals Lunch celebrates industry talent in the AIMEX Garden
The Australian International Marine Export Group, together with Rivergate Marina and Shipyard hosted a successful second annual Young Professionals Lunch in the AIMEX Garden at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show on Friday 23 May 2025.
New Zealand’s Millennium Cup in growth mode for 2026
The 2026 dates for the New Zealand Millennium Cup regatta have been set, beginning late January 2026 and the popular event is set to grow once more. “After an incredible event at the start of this year, we’re thrilled to have stronger and earlier interest from yachts wishing to compete next year, than ever before,” says organiser Stacey Cook.
More funding for emergency services in S.A.
The total emergency services budget for 2025-26 will increase by $21 million with new initiatives to include more training for volunteer firefighters. $687 000 over three years will go to continue supporting Volunteer Marine Rescue associations in providing their rescue capability.
Upcoming education from MIA
Intermediate Marina Management Course, The Next Oil Spill Response Course, Upcoming MIA Webinar: Insurance, Emergency Preparedness Course. See the full story for dates and how to book.
SOS Rescue Log: A Game-Changer in Emergency Response
In a major breakthrough for emergency response and rescue technology, SOS Marine proudly announces the SOS Rescue Log — Its Life-Saving that can be THROWN to person in water struggling to stay afloat. The first drone-compatible flotation device designed to autonomously reach and assist individuals in high-risk, hard-to-access environments.
Marine Rescue Queensland launches first units in the Torres Strait
A new era for marine rescue in the Torres Strait as Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) welcomes three Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) units to the fold, as well as launches its first newly established MRQ unit. MRQ Kubin – located on Moa Island – was established in response to community need and joins the newly launched MRQ units on Thursday Island, Masig and St Pauls.
Simulated Emergency, real preparation: Marine Rescue NSW crews test search and rescue response at Tweed Heads
Sixty Marine Rescue NSW crew members and radio operators from five Northern Rivers units honed their skills at Tweed Heads over the weekend during a simulated multi-incident offshore search and rescue exercise (SAREX), held in persistent driving rain and 1.5-metre seas.
Cleaner Waterways Ahead: Marine Structures Launches DPOL® Across Australia Pacific
Marine Structures, Australian leading provider of marine infrastructure solutions, has announced its appointment as the exclusive Australia Pacific partner for Ekkopol’s DPOL (Durable Protection of Ocean Life) technology, an innovative solution for the collection of floating waste and hydrocarbons in marinas.
PredictWind Launches Anchor Alert App: Peace of Mind for Boaters
Global weather forecaster, PredictWind, has announced the launch of its new standalone Anchor Alert app. Designed to provide boaters with ultimate peace of mind, this app delivers immediate, real-time alerts if their anchor drags, ensuring enhanced safety for vessels and crew.
Ocean warming increases chances of spotting manta rays and zebra sharks in NSW – and that’s good news for tourism
Climate change may be giving a surprising boost to the NSW dive tourism industry, with new research predicting manta rays and zebra sharks could spend up to 4 months longer at popular dive sites on the central NSW coast over coming decades.
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