In conversation with Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell ESM

Marine Business News spoke to Commissioner Alex Barrell ESM ahead of two important industry events. Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell is a highly respected leader in Australia’s maritime safety and emergency services community, with a distinguished career spanning more than 30 years.

BLA Marks a Decade of Success with Standout 2025 Trade Show at Brisbane’s Star Casino

Leading Australasian marine distributor BLA wrapped up a highly successful BLATS’25—its 10th annual trade show—at Brisbane’s new Star Casino in July, cementing the event as a must-attend on the industry calendar.

From fear to fascination: Decoding the depths and distances travelled by the world’s largest fish

Female whale sharks are conspicuous in their absence from aggregation sites such as Ningaloo Reef. A unique satellite tracking data set is showing us where they are so that we can begin to understand why. I became acquainted with sharks at a very early age.

In Conversation with Angus McDonald

Australia’s maritime industry is at a turning point, with increasing pressure to adapt to global climate realities while maintaining competitiveness and capability. One of the most significant responses to this challenge has come from the Maritime Emissions Reduction Coalition (MERC)—a growing collaborative initiative driven by industry, academia, and innovation leaders. 

Azzurra: From the Sports Pages to the Front Pages

Italy has one of the most passionate and enduring histories in the America’s Cup. Azzurra’s 1983 debut turned Italian sailing into a national interest. Backed by icons like Agnelli and the Aga Khan, it laid the foundation for today’s Italian America’s Cup campaigns—culminating in Naples hosting the Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup in 2027.

Paspaley Pearl: From Island Escape to Australian Expedition Luxury

A once-overlooked New Zealand yacht has been transformed into Australia’s newest luxury expedition vessel following an extensive refit and a bold reimagining by Paspaley. Now sailing under the name Paspaley Pearl, the 53.5-metre motor yacht will begin a new chapter in July, carrying just 30 guests on immersive voyages across Australia’s remote north and beyond.

A Journey from Rallying to Boating Excellence

Former rally champions Raz and Ioana Vlad, have successfully transitioned to competitive boating, leveraging advanced Raymarine technology to dominate Time Trialling in Western Australia. Raz and Ioana Vlad are a dynamic couple with a passion for precision and competition.

Leopard Catamarans advances ‘single shot’ hull infusion & further industry standards

Caine (R&C), has announced that it is advancing hull construction with the introduction of the ‘single shot infusion’ technique. Building on the traditional 3-step hull construction standard, this method uses one shot of resin infusion to infuse the entire hull at once, bonding all core components in a straightforward, single process.

With just one month to go, Nautilus Marine Insurance is ready for the 40th Hamilton Island Race Week!

Nautilus Marine Insurance is celebrating its continuing support of Hamilton Island Race Week with 2025 marking two milestone anniversaries: the 40th edition of the regatta and Nautilus Marine’s 20 years of insurance support for boat owners.

Queensland Government Fund Next Wave in Marine Jobs

The Boating Industry Association Ltd has announced a significant funding agreement with the Queensland Government to deliver a major boost to the Marine Jobs program across the Sunshine State. BIA CEO Andrew Fielding said this milestone funding agreement would enable Marine Jobs to accelerate in Queensland which is home to the largest concentration of marine businesses in Australia.

Fast-tracking Queensland’s boat harbour master planning

The Queensland Crisafulli Government is revitalising maritime infrastructure, fast-tracking master-planning for the State’s eight Government-owned and managed boat harbours. Through $13.2 million in investment for accelerated master planning, the Government is backing the maritime industry to support jobs, boost tourism, and unlock economic growth in coastal communities.

Kongsberg to start production of Hugin underwater vehicles in the U.S.

Kongsberg Discovery has decided to start production of HUGIN, an autonomous underwater vehicle, in the U.S. This strategic decision reflects the commitment to supporting the growing demand for advanced subsea technology in the U.S. market.