The industry’s southern-most members will once again be represented on the International Superyacht Society (ISS) board, following the news about Matt Johnston, managing director of Tasmanian company, MUIR, that has been elected to the board. MUIR specialises in the manufacture of windlasses and anchoring system, and provides exceptional solutions to yachts. Recent projects of note include Alloy sailing yacht Hey Jude and La Belle Classe Monaco winner, expedition yacht Yersin.

MUIR’s Matthew Johnston

The announcement has been greeted with pleasure by Australian and New Zealand proponents of the industry who believe the growing manufacturing, service and luxury yacht charter industries can offer much to the wider superyacht sphere.

“It is important for Australia to ensure representation on key global organizations that focus on supporting the superyacht sector. With the growing interest in cruising in Australia, building superyachts here and our significant capability in the repair and refit sectors we need to understand the needs of the global market and ensure the global market understands our industry,” says MaryAnne Edwards, CEO of Superyacht Australia.

“Matthew Johnston of MUIR is a highly experienced manufacturer within the superyacht sector with a strong global brand. Matthew has been a regular attendee for many years at key international boat shows and, alongside John Muir, is a well known figure within the industry. His input at ISS board level will be valuable for the industry as a whole and will certainly ensure Australia and the Pacific region has input and direct feedback regarding global issues,” Edwards said.

Johnston is keen to continue to increase the region’s participation with the wider superyacht industry.

I’m looking forward to contributing as an ISS board member in all aspects of the position and am particularly eager to ensure that the board is privy to issues that relate to the South Pacific region and how we can tackle these for the best outcome for all concerned,” says Johnston.

With international shows a key part of MUIR’s growth strategy, Johnston is a familiar face within the industry and is looking forward to bringing news and developments from the Asia-Pacific region to the attention of ISS members, helping them both grow their markets into the burgeoning region, and understand what it brings to the industry in terms of manufacturing benefits.

Ballots were sent to ISS members on January 2, and the vote for ISS members only, was collected on 5 February.