National Recreational Boating Survey

The Boating Industry Association (BIA) has announced the rollout of a survey designed to improve understanding of the social and economic benefits of recreational boating across Australia. BIA CEO Andrew Scott said the survey was part of a wider project to develop a more complete picture of the impact and value of boating.

What is the value of a club volunteer?

The answer is priceless!, but if you had to put a figure on it, clubs could not afford the expense. For the past 20 years I have been the CEO of 3 large yacht clubs in various parts of Australia. I have seen many hundreds of volunteers over those years. They are amazing people and their efforts never cease to amaze.

Propspeed celebrates 25 years of protecting the industry’s running gear

Propspeed, leader of underwater foul-release coatings, has announced its 25th anniversary, marking a quarter of a century dedicated to protecting running gear and underwater metals. For 25 years, Propspeed has set the standard with its industry-leading foul-release coatings systems, exceptional customer service and in-field support. 

Blueprints for Adventure: Expressions of Interest for CYCA Offshore Academy Yachts

The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA) has formed an ‘Offshore Academy Working Group’ (OAWG) to determine the feasibility of establishing an ‘Offshore Sailing Academy’ (OSA) at the CYCA. As part of its studies, the OAWG is pleased to invite Expressions of Interest (EOI) for boat builders and distributors to submit their proposals to showcase their yachts at the Club’s prospective OSA. 

Transforming marinas for a digital future

The need for improved sustainability, greater efficiency and better berthholder experiences are pushing marinas towards digital transformation. But what exactly is a ‘smart marina’ and how do you make that change? Idan Cohen, the founder of Pick A Pier, answers Metstrade’s questions.

Reimagining the outboard motor

Start-Up Pavilion exhibitor ESEA Propulsion Systems has thrown out the rule book for its new electric outboard design. Metstrade spoke with CEO and co-founder, Carlos Puerta, to learn how his fledgling business has employed emerging technologies to rapidly move from concept to prototype.

New ways to sail

Ships powered by wind force successfully navigate the world and have been doing so for millennia. The re-discovery by the maritime industry that merchant ships can be powered by wind force has invoked new designs for sails and other ways to harvest the power of the wind for propulsion. 

Michelle Hildyard to Lead Operations for Raymarine and FLIR Maritime

Raymarine – global leader in high-performance marine electronics – recently announced Michelle Hildyard as the Vice President of Operations. With 19 years of experience in the marine industry, all within Raymarine and FLIR, Hildyard brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her new role. 

National Finalists announced for 2024 Australian Sailing Awards

The 2024 finalists for the national Australian Sailing Awards have been announced, with clubs, volunteers and sailing stars from around the country all in the running for recognition at the nation’s peak sailing awards. In the Female and Male Sailor of the Year categories, finalists include major regatta medallists, World Champions across multiple classes and Paris 2024 Olympians.

Vespucci World Tour: Nave Amerigo Vespucci and the Italian Village for the first time in Darwin from 5 to 7 October

The ship Amerigo Vespucci, a historic sailing vessel and training craft of the Italian Navy, ambassador of Made in Italy in the world, will stop for the first time in its 93-year history in the port of Darwin, from 5 to 7 October.

New State Headquarters for State Emergency Service and Marine Rescue Queensland

The State Emergency Service (SES) and Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) marked the opening of their new, joint headquarters in Nundah recently, signifying an important milestone of bringing together and growing SES’s and MRQ’s ability to deliver stronger and more coordinated state disaster and emergency responses.

Big Build of Cairns given big boost with Marine College expansion underway

The Queensland Government has kicked off construction on its latest project in the Big Build of Cairns with a massive 2,600 m² expansion of TAFE Queensland’s Great Barrier Reef International Marine College. The jointly funded $17.6 million upgrade, part of a $36 million investment by the Labor Government. 

Arc-shaped breakwater protects New Zealand Marina

Waiheke Island Marina on Hauraki Gulf is New Zealand’s newest yachting destination. To shelter its 180 docks from fetching seas and passing island ferry wakes, but also to protect the area’s ecologically sensitive environment, owners partnered with SF Marina to install two uniquely curved floating concrete breakwaters.

Shaping the world through the IMG committee

The International Council Marine Industry Association (ICOMIA) plays a big role in the marine industry internationally and thanks to an investment shared by the association and individual members, NZMOA has had a seat at its table for more than twenty years.

Grupo Vidanta Announces VidantaWorld’s ELEGANT Ultra Mega Yacht

Grupo Vidanta is thrilled to announce the launch of VidantaWorld’s ELEGANT Ultra Mega Yacht, a groundbreaking addition to the world of luxury cruising. This one-of-a-kind mega yacht redefines cruising, combining the exclusivity of a private yacht with the opulence of a luxury liner, setting a new benchmark for high-end experiences.