GOLD COAST MARINE EXPO: Quintrex factory tours

Guided tours of the Quintrex aluminium boat-building factory are back by popular demand for the 2014 Gold Coast International Marine Expo (October 17-19).

The tours – for which numbers are limited – offer a first-hand glimpse of the latest innovative techniques used in crafting what are undoubtedly Australia's favourite tinnies.

The free tours offer a rare opportunity to view the complete manufacturing process, including the process of plasma cutting, pressing and welding of marine grade aluminium, custom-designed paint booths and the complete fit-out of boats. 

Established in 1945 by Terry Quantrill, Quintrex now has a team of over 250 dedicated staff including expert welders, painters, carpenters, engine technicians and storemen. Together they produce over 12,000 boats a year across 300 models ranging in size from 2m to 7m, exporting to 15 countries through an extensive dealer network.

Gold Coast International Marine Expo Event and Marketing Manager Emma Milne said the Quintrex factory tours were a huge hit when introduced at last year's event.

"Quintrex has been named over 10 times as Australia's Aluminium Boat Builder of the Year and has what you could call a cult following," she said.

Quintrex Director of Sales and Marketing Damien Duncan said the Quintrex factory is located on a 10-acre site at Telwater's massive state-of-the-art factory at the Gold Coast Marine Precinct and includes a small boat factory, large boat factory and packaging factory.

"We have always had a lot of demand when it comes to factory tours – it is something our customers have continuously requested so we are excited to announce we now have this unique experience available," he said.

"We are not holding any more tours until the Expo so this is a great opportunity for Quintrex owners or people in the market for a new Quintrex to mark a time in their diaries to come and see the workmanship behind each boat."

The tours are free of charge and each group is limited to 20 people on a first-in, best-dressed basis. They will be held on Friday October 17 at 8.00am, 9.00am, 10.30am and then every hour from 11.00am to 1.00pm. On Saturday October 18 the tours will be held at 8.00am, 9.00am, 10.30am and 11.00am.

Mr Duncan said people who miss the boat for a tour during Expo can arrange factory tours for other times throughout the year at www.telwaterfactorytour.com – tour dates will be confirmed within the next few weeks.

The not-for-profit Gold Coast International Marine Expo is a massive showcase of 'all things aquatic' featuring everything from superyachts to fishing equipment and jet skis… and everything in between.

For the first time, tickets for the Gold Coast International Marine Expo are now available online so savvy patrons can avoid lining up at the gate. Simply visit www.gcmarineexpo.com.au to pre-purchase tickets for any of the three days.

"We will again be offering free on-site parking with a nominal entry fee introduced this year to help secure the future of the event and raise much-needed funds for charity. Entry is $8 per adult, $5 for seniors with children under the age of 15 years admitted free when accompanied by an adult."