Exhibitor sites at the Gold Coast International Marine Expo are filling fast. More than 60% of available space has been already secured for Australia’s only ‘Working Boat Show’, set to run from October 17 to 19, 2014.
Gold Coast International Marine Expo
Event and Marketing Manager Emma Milne said there had been a huge influx of registrations since exhibitor applications opened just over two months ago, confirming early indications that the 2014 Expo is shaping up as the most successful yet.
“That’s a really fantastic response,” said Ms Milne. “This year’s will be the fourth Expo and we are absolutely buoyed that the marine industry supports it so strongly.
“I’m sure that support will be returned to them throughout the three days of the event – last year we had a record crowd of 21,000 people taking advantage of Expo as a one-stop venue for ‘all things aquatic’.”
Aerial view of the Gold Coast International Marine Expo
The Gold Coast International Marine Expo is a not-for-profit event run by the marine industry for the marine industry – it brings together everything from superyachts to fishing equipment and jet skis … and everything else in between.
Ms Milne said a survey conducted last year revealed 91% of people attending rated the Expo eight out of 10 as a great event, and 82% of them confirmed they will be back for 2014.
“Expo showcases a massive array of marine equipment, accessories and boats … and gives the enthusiasts the best chance to get afloat before the summer and Christmas seasons,” she said.
Gold Coast Marine Expo
“We have locked in several world, Australian and Queensland product premieres – and these include an exciting evolution in the range of personal water craft and accessories.
“Jet Ski World has confirmed its display of the 2015 range of Kawasaki adrenalin-pumping personal water craft, including the Ultra 310R which is ideal for hardcore recreation, and the race model which comes with specially designed sports handlebars and seat.”
Ms Milne said other confirmed product releases included the smooth new 6000 Flybridge from Whitehaven Motor Yachts, a tough and versatile inflatable stand-up paddleboard from Noble Boats International, as well as a striking new 21-foot wakeboarding specialty boat from Nautique Central.
Luxury yachts on display at the Gold Coast International Marine Expo
“There have been whispered rumours to shouting demands for the Super Air Nautique G21, which is designed to give wakeboarders, wakesurfers, and wakeskaters the ability to tune their experience from a mellow ride to unreal stunt possibilities,” she said. “It’s billed as the pinnacle of wake-sports boats … and amplifies its versatility with each wake and wave setting.”
The 3km-long Expo circuit at the Gold Coast Marine Precinct at Coomera will also feature a huge range of live attractions and demonstrations every 15 minutes.
“The amazing High Dive show will again be a major drawcard, along with the Coomera Cup kayak race,” said Ms Milne.
“It’s going to be a whole lot of fun!”
The Gold Coast International Marine Expo also raises much-needed funds for worthy charities, to date providing over $50,000 to the Rotary Club of Coomera River, Paradise Kids, Sailability Gold Coast and the Westpac Lifesaver Helicopter Rescue Service.
The 2014 Expo will again offer free on-site parking and there will be a nominal entry fee of $8 per adult, $5 for seniors while children under the age of 15 years will be admitted free.
“In support of the marine industry and being true to Expo’s philosophy, prices for all exhibitors will be held at 2013 levels,” said Ms Milne.
“We will also have a new layout to further enhance the Expo experience, including one central food court, even more entertainment and a new indoor/outdoor-style marquee as a display option.”
