NEWS UPDATE01 May 2026 Publishers noteIt is always sad when we report on, and respectfully recognise, the passing of an era. This week, we had two. The first was the passing of Olympian, sailing legend and well-known identity Gordon “Wingnut” Ingate OAM, who left us this time last week at the age of 100. Very few can claim such a full, rewarding and enduring life on the water. Fair winds and following seas. The other is a farewell to an iconic business many across the industry have known for decades, Coursemaster Autopilots. Today is officially their last day. We extend our thanks for their service and contribution to the marine industry, and we wish Richard Chapman, his family and the entire Coursemaster team our very best for their next chapters. I’m not going to lie; the last few weeks have felt like one big dog paddle. Not in a bad way, but there has certainly been a lot happening. There are many positive things underway with Marine Business News, its new sister publication, Exhibition Industry News, which I am equally proud of, along with a range of other activity happening behind the scenes. It is all moving in the right direction, and as the coming weeks unfold, we expect to have kicked a few more goals, with more news to share with you soon. Don’t forget to check out our Marinas26 updates in today’s news wrap up. You’ll also find links book your place for Marinas26 as well as ASMEX below. 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, It will be necessary to click on “View Entire Message” in some browsers to view this entire eNews. Coursemaster Autopilots closes after more than 50 years of Australian marine innovationCoursemaster Autopilots will close its doors today, 1 May 2026, bringing to an end more than five decades of continuous operation for one of Australia’s most recognised marine technology businesses. Vale Gordon Ingate OAMSailing legend, Gordon Ingate OAM, passed away following a short illness, he had turned 100 in March and celebrated in style at Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron with his family and a mass of friends, including those he collected interstate and overseas. Gordon, or 'Wingnut’, as he was famously known in ... Strong member turnout for BIAV 2026 AGM and Annual DinnerThe Boating Industry Association of Victoria (BIAV) brought members together for its 2026 Annual General Meeting and Annual Dinner, marking an evening of industry updates, governance continuity, member recognition and networking. Held on ... Caribbean 40F Flybridge – Global RevealCaribbean has unveiled the 40F Flybridge to a global audience, marking a significant moment in the evolution of the brand’s flybridge convertible range. The Caribbean 40F introduces a refined exterior design direction that redefines the visual identity ... Marinas26 – 300+ Delegates Register – 4 weeks to Go!With still four weeks to go, over 300 delegates have registered for the Marinas26 International Conference and Trade Exhibition (Marinas26). In a return to the Gold Coast, the event will be held at the Royal Pines Resort on 25 & 26 May 2026. SCIBS 2026 top marine toys and innovations revealedWhile SCIBS is perhaps best known for serving up a stellar selection of luxury on-water vessels, it’s not just powerhouse motor yachts that are set to draw crowds this year. Boating gadgets and high-tech toys have been steadily rising in popularity, and ... Celebrating 10 Years on the WaterBoat Gold Coast Magazine marked its 10-year anniversary. We spoke with founder and magazine director ANDY KANCACHIAN about why the magazine began, why it’s still growing, and what makes the Gold Coast one of Australia’s great boating cities. Solar Power, Seamlessly Perfected – RivieraFor more than 45 years, Riviera has refined the art of the luxury motor yacht, guided by considered design and engineering. Today, that evolution extends to how energy is experienced on‑board – introducing a more integrated, quieter approach through solar. Sea-Trex returns to SCIBS 2026 — Born in ’83, Back for GoodSea-Trex is set to return to the spotlight at the 2026 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS), marking a new era for the long-established Australian aluminium boat brand, originally founded in 1983. Acquired in July 2025 by marine industry leader Tim ... Highfield Boats Australia welcomes WaterSports Marine as exclusive dealer for NSWHighfield Boats Australia has announced the appointment of WaterSports Marine as their exclusive authorised dealer for New South Wales, marking an exciting new chapter for both companies and boating enthusiasts across the state. This strategic partnership ..In other news... |