Marine13 conference in Australia has started with an high-powered plenary session with more than 450 people coming together to attend the two day event. NSW Minister for Roads and Ports, the Hon. Duncan Gay, MLC,  welcomed attendees from 15 different countries followed by a top motivation speaker Catherine DeVrye who provided an uplifting message for these challenging times.

Marine 13 International Conference and Trade Exhibition held at Darling Harbour convention centre

Benjamin Pedley, Head of Investments, UBS Wealth Management then followed with an excellent overview of current and future economic trends and implications of an aging population and the impact of discretionary spending. He also predicted a gradual drop in the Australian dollar over coming years.

Thom Dammrich, President, National Marine Association USA then provided a thorough analysis of boating trends in the USA and detailed the multichannel promotional plan to grow boating participation that is achieving high levels of cut through. A key message he left the audience with was that the only way the USA industry is able to meet the challenges facing recreational boating is through all industry groups working together to implement an agreed strategy.

Chairman of the Boating Industries Alliance Australia Darren Vaux said the start to Marine13 has been excellent with delegates, exhibitors and speakers all commenting on the positive mood at the event. “After 18 months of planning it is rewarding to see the event roll out smoothly with all participants very optimistic for a highly productive two days”.