Sydney Trailer Boat Show postponed for 2017

The long-running Sydney Trailer Boat Show, formerly as Rosehill Race Course but moving to Sydney Showground for the last three years, has been postponed for 2017.

The Boating Industry Association (BIA) says visitor and exhibitor numbers have diminished over the years. The BIA faced the challenge of getting sufficient boating-related exhibitors to create an appealing event, while at the same time attracting sufficient visitor numbers to justify putting enough product on display.

Exhibitor feedback has still been very keen for an early year event, however, they are cost conscious and keen to ensure exhibitor fees remain at a level where they can generate a return on their investment.

National BIA CEO, Howard Glenn said "this event is steeped in tradition that goes back to the early 1960s, however, it is not good for either exhibitors or visitors to persist for the sake of continuity.

"We want to hold the show as much as many exhibitors do, but we have to take a breath and revisit the product so it fulfills everyone’s needs. The BIA has invested in the event considerably for many years to keep the event going."

The BIA says it will use the time in 2017 to review every element of the event and aims to relaunch it in early 2018. But with the Sydney International Boat Show returning to one big event at Darling Harbour in 2017, investment will be directed there by most marine businesses and brands

At the time of writing, the BIA had just received confirmation that it will be able to conduct a venue preview for its members intending to exhibit at the 50th 2017 Sydney International Boat Show opening from August 3-7. Exciting times ahead! More at