55th Brisbane Boat Show deemed successful

The 55th Brisbane Boat Show has closed  after four days of all things boating and fishing, topped off with glorious Queensland weather that provided bluebird skies as the backdrop.

Organisers say next year's show is a fixture after energetic and passionate crowds were presented with an extensive array of recreational boats, equipment, accessories and the all-important fishing gear this year.

With the show consuming two levels of the RNA Showgrounds BICC exhibition building, the plaza and the marquee and outdoor display areas, visitors were treated to a good array of recreational craft.   Whether visitors were keen fishers, boating fanatics or just there for a fun day out with the family, there was something for everyone.

Marine Queensland President Matthew Hodson said: "The Show is a favourite with Brisbane’s boating community and the industry is pleased it can present the latest it has to offer.

"South East Queensland is one of the world’s leading boat-manufacturing hubs and the show provides a perfect opportunity to showcase the latest concepts and trends in boating. 

"The Brisbane Boat Show is imperative for the industry as it connects the sector with the consumer and lays the foundation for development of next season’s products," Hodson added.

Exhibitor feedback suggests the show patrons included a very healthy proportion of serious, well-qualified purchasers intent on securing their new boat for the summer boating season.

Aaron Goodchild from Brisbane Yamaha said: "The Show is the place where we meet many of our new customers, as well as being the perfect setting to reconnect with existing owners. Boaters are always looking for that little extra from their boating experience and lifestyle and between finding solutions for new customers and upgrades for old ones, the four days of the show were very busy for us.

"We never miss the show: as an active and passionate member of the boating industry we believe it is important to be there for all our customers, first-timers and returning friends"

The show welcomed more than 9,500 visitors over the four days with Father’s Day, Sunday 6th, having the most foot traffic.

Planning will commence immediately for next year's show, which the Boating Industries Alliance Australia must surely hope attracts a bigger turnout of exhibitors and buyers from what is a very busy and possibly diluted annual boat-show program in Queensland these days.