GOLD COAST MARINE EXPO: Volvo Penta on display

Volvo Penta has joined forces with the Gold Coast International Marine Expo to assist in staging the "boat show with show much more" at Coomera this May 19-22.

Volvo Penta is, of course, a major supplier of engines and complete power systems for marine applications. In the last decade, the brand has made a concerted effort to be at the frontline of innovation.

Volvo Penta’s Inboard Propulsion System with easy joystick manoeuvrability has revolutionised pleasure boating in the past decade, while the new Glass Cockpit system simplifies operation by putting all your boat's systems in the one touch-screen hub right at hand.

"This state-of-the-art technology really has to be seen and experienced to be fully appreciated and it will be on display here in the heart of Australia’s boating industry capital, the Gold Coast Marine Precinct, and at Expo from 19-22 May," enthused Expo Event and Marketing Manager Emma Brown.

"First there were smart-phones and then smart-cars, and now Volvo Penta has added ‘smart-boats’ to the list of technological advances that are changing the way we live our [boating] lives."

Head of Volvo Penta Oceania Andrew Nicholson said the company – now based at Gold Coast City Marina – is proud to partner with Expo in fostering jobs, growth and opportunity throughout the Australian marine industry.

"Volvo Penta is committed to enhancing the rich and rewarding benefits of the boating life for boating families and also those who aspire to get out on the water and have fun," he said, adding that "it’s a pleasure to be onboard with an impressive list of industry leaders."

Meantime, Expo is destined to be the biggest ever, organisers say, with additional display space and infrastructure to cater for increased exhibitor demand at the two marinas and across the three kilometre display circuit.

There will be more 500 boats of all makes, models and sizes on display on the water and on land, as well as a diverse display of engines, accessories and equipment.

"Many of the leading boating brands in Australia and the world have reserved the Expo for their exclusive yacht, boat and product launches – some will be launched at Expo for the first time in Australia, some for the first time in the world," promoter Mrs Brown said.

"Expo visitors in 2016 will definitely need a multi-day pass to see and enjoy all there is on offer across our three kilometre display circuit featuring major international businesses and brands at over 230 display sites."

The Expo is now a major event on the Australian events calendar, having been awarded Best Exhibition for 2015 at the Australian Event Award.

Its partners include Volvo Penta, Riviera Australia, Stefan Boating World, Telwater, Mercury, The Boat Works, Clipper Motor Yachts and Gold Coast City Marina. More at gcmarineexpo.com.au.