Internationally renowned and respected Australian superyacht designer Sam Sorgiovanni, has confirmed his presence as a speaker at the 2 day, key industry conference on May 21-22, 2013 to be held in Sanctuary Cove.

Graduating with a BA of Industrial Design, Sorgiovanni has obtained invaluable experience within the yacht design industry on a global scale. Stemming his career from Australia’s most successful yacht builder, Oceanfast, Sorgiovanni was mentored by the late great Jon Bannenberg.

In 1997, Sorgiovanni established his own studio and began working on international projects. Sorgiovanni’s Antipodean way of life can be reflected in his projects; Octopus, Aussie Rules, Anastasia, White Rabbit and Nirvana. 

Sorgiovanni will bring his life experience to the table at ASMEX 2013 to educate others about what he has learned through life experience. Sorgiovanni will be discussing what superyacht owners want and expect in todays market in conjunction with current market trends. Sorgiovanni will also detail the design journey with personal anecdotes and what the key is to success on a global scale.

The Australian government is currently working on a raft of maritime regulatory reforms. These include writing the national law that will establish a single maritime safety regulator for domestic commercial vessels and a rewrite of the Navigation Act 1912. One of the objectives of this process is to clarify jurisdiction over commercial vessels in Australia waters, and the current proposal would see the replacement for the Navigation Act 1912 having jurisdiction over all foreign flag commercial vessels in Australian waters.

While superyachts have been previously treated as “pleasure craft” under the Navigation Act the new Act will have a wider definition of “commercial vessel” which will likely capture superyachts. Superyacht Australia do not see this as being a problem provided appropriate standards are applied. AMSA agrees that the UKMCA standards applied to superyachts has become the defacto international standard and would seek to have this accommodated in the new regulatory scheme. AMSA’s intention from a safety regulation perspective would be that as commercial foreign flag vessels operating in Australian waters, superyachts would be subject to port State inspections on a risk assessment basis while in our ports. Chairman of Superyacht Australia Barry Jenkins stated “Superyacht Australia supports foreign flag superyachts being under one jurisdiction.

From a coastal trading perspective, superyachts engaging in trade in Australian waters that impacted upon operations of Australian flag vessels may also then be faced with other restrictions. Barry Jenkins said “Superyacht Australia will be discussing this with the Department of Infrastructure and Transport to ensure the views of the organisation are made known in relation to the impending coastal shipping reforms.” The reforms are intended to be in place by 1 January 2013. Over the coming months consultations will take place on the national law for Australian domestic vessels Superyacht Australia expect that consultations will take place on the revised Navigation Act. Superyacht Australia will make their views known during these processes as clearly superyachts occupy a unique position in the industry. AMSA will be organising consulations for the national law for domestic commercial vessels while the Department of Infrastructure and Transport will be arranging the others.

The Shadow Minister for Tourism and Regional Development will give attendees of the ASMEX Conference an insight into Australia’s potential new government’s marine and tourism strategy.

The Hon Bob Baldwin MP will be one of the high calibre speakers on the program at the 2013 Australian Superyacht and Marine Export Conference (ASMEX), 20-22 May, which caters for a cross section of industry and attracts delegates from around the world.

With the Australian federal election set for 14 September, ASMEX Conference delegates are in prime position to hear Mr Baldwin shed light on the Opposition’s strategy for marine export, manufacturing and tourism.

Current challenges such as the high Australian dollar, rising cost of manufacturing, reduced global demand, influx of imports and difficulty securing finance, it will be interesting to see if the Opposition’s strategy comprises concrete initiatives that benefit the broader marine industry.

Mr Baldwin has toured much of the country visiting key manufacturing and boating hubs. His credentials are more than portfolio deep.

“I’m a keen boatie and I’ve spent my life around the marine sector, including running diving and fishing charters, boat deliveries and marine engineering businesses,” he told Ocean. “I am looking forward to attending the Australian Superyacht and Marine Export Conference and I hope my speech will make a contribution to the current debates in the industry.

Networking is one of the most important aspects of the event, he continued. “The networking that occurs between businesses and the opportunity to promote new products and services. It will be an opportunity for people in the sector to work together and strive for new standards that take the local industry to new heights.”

Quoting conservative figures that estimate the significant value of the marine sector to the Australian economy, Mr Baldwin said boating, tourism and manufacturing impact entire communities, not just those interested in the pastime.

The Hon. Bob Baldwin MP on the road talking strategy with Stebercraft.

“The marine sector is of huge value to the Australian economy – not just in the direct employment in the manufacturing sector but also in the flow on services and, of course, the tourism sector.

“In terms of the recreational fishing industry, there are five million people involved and it’s worth around $10 billion to the economy. And we know that in the marine sector, money from boating flows right through the entire community.”

According to ABS figures and backed by the Boating Industries Alliance Australia (BIAA), the value of the marine industry nationwide is estimated at $8 billion. The broader industry, including manufacturing, boat building and repairs, marinas and retailing employs 27,000 people.

In terms of worth to the Australian economy, the marine manufacturing industry is worth roughly double the automotive manufacturing industry which is estimated at $4bn.

Tourism too, relies on waterside recreational – from luxury Great Barrier Reef charters to throwing a line in at the local dam. “Boating is a driver of Australian tourism because we have some of the best assets in the world when it comes to the marine environment – from the Great Barrier and Ningaloo reefs to Sydney Harbour and the waters around Tasmania: all of Australia is marine paradise!

“The marine sector is a significant contributor to Australia’s $96 billion tourism industry. It’s important to remember that every visitor who comes to Australia and spends here – whether it be on a new boat or on a coffee at the boat show – is boosting our export revenue.”

Mr Baldwin is adamant that governments at all levels have a duty to get the regulations right to responsibly support our marine industry and ensure all its segments flourish.

“I want to see government support industry by getting out of the way of businesses doing what they do best – creating jobs and wealth,” he said, adding “The Coalition will cut red and green tape by $1 billion a year, and we’ll axe the carbon tax that is stifling Australian competitiveness.”

http://www.oceanmagazine.com.au/j/index.php/livenews/436-the-coalitions-marine-and-tourism-strategy

The $31m Sydney Superyacht Marina redevelopment will transform it in to a world-standard destination, custom-designed and built for the superyacht fraternity.

Following PAC approval of the DA, the owners of the Sydney Superyacht Marina are poised to begin the first stage of a radical upgrade of facilities at its Rozelle site.

Under the plans, the development will feature 24 marina berths for yachts up to 70 metres, a yacht club, offices, workshops, boutiques, restaurants, entertainment venues and a multilevel car park.
An artist’s impression of the 24-berth Sydney Superyacht Marina, set to begin construction in June.

Chairman Brian James told Ocean the development will upgrade the land-based facilities to ensure the marina stays competitive with other world class superyacht marinas, revitalise the maritime district and ensure the continuing economic benefits that such a facility brings to the NSW maritime industry and NSW economy as a whole.

Appointed contractor, Ganellen, will begin works June 2013, and Mr James says stage one is likely to be completed by June 2014, if not before.

The complex will house a superyacht club, offices and a series of restaurants and retail outlets.

Sydney Superyacht Marina at Rozelle was built to accommodate visiting yachts which thronged to Sydney for the 2000 Olympic Games, and since then, has become recognised as an industry leader, championing international superyacht visitation to Australia and serving the local market.

The new development will involve pulling down the current structure, Liquidity restaurant, to make way for a two-storey structure. There will be three buildings in total. The western building will house a registered superyacht club, facilities for superyacht owners and crews, offices, boat sales, staff and training services, and ancillary uses such as a provedore and restaurants. The eastern building will include marine offices, marine retail activity, and workshops together with other food and drink outlets. A car park building will be constructed behind the eastern building.

The Superyacht Marina will be fitted out to provide world-class refits and maintenance.

Refit and maintenance facilities can be undertaken at Sydney City Marina adjacent.

The facilities will incorporate state of the art technology, with particular attention to sound attenuation and AC throughout, waste disposal, solar panels and other eco-friendly attributes.

Director, Justin James says this will be no ordinary marina. “We are aiming to build a marina of international calibre – something you would see in the south of France. It’s a much-needed boost for the marine industry and locals, and will be great for tourism, appealing to a whole range of different users.”

Sydney and Australia as a tourism destination will benefit from development around the harbour through improved services for visitors and the public.

http://www.oceanmagazine.com.au/j/index.php/livenews/430-sydney-superyacht-marina

www.superyachtmarina.com.au

Focus

The Australian Superyacht & Marine Export Industry Conference is a two day event staged at Sanctuary Cove Marine Village Theatre prior to the 23rd Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show. It will bring together industry stakeholders, boat builders, service providers and marine industry manufacturers. A critical focus of the conference is promoting Australia as a key cruising destination plus looking at the excellent refit & repair services and facilities available. The conference will address the significant issues facing the Australian Superyacht and Export industry and explore current and future opportunities. The conference will provide an overview of key global markets and in particular how Australia, NZ, Asia and the Pacific can work together to drive more business for the region.

Speakers

Key note speakers include Iain Murray America’s Cup CEO & Regatta Director, Sandy Oatley – Hamilton island Enterprises Executive Chairman who with his family is responsible for the internationally acclaimed Hamilton Island, World renowned designer Ron Holland – Ron Holland Design and Ms Carla Demaria of Award Winning Monte Carlo Yachts. The two day conference is set to see an amazing lineup of industry personalities.

Topics

Key topics will cover the current market conditions for the superyacht & marine export industry, panel discussions on issues facing charter operators in the Australian market, demystifying freight/logistics in the boat transport and equipment export sector, superyacht crew training, retention and marketing opportunities, key government lobbying issues to remove barriers and increase opportunities for the industry, working with our Asia Pacific partners, the pros & cons of offshore manufacturing, EMDG and much more…..

Registrations

Registrations are OPEN. Click here to register. Each registration includes access to all conference sessions, the social program including Welcome Reception on Monday 16 May and Industry Dinner on Tuesday 17 May, morning tea and lunch both days and afternoon tea on day one, and two complimentary guest passes to the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.

Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show VIP Packages also available here.

Accommodation

A summary of accommodation options is available, block bookings have been made at advantageous rates. To make your booking at the Hyatt.

Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show VIP Packages also available here

Press Releases

Superyacht Australia drives major initiative…

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Austrade Chief Exeuctive to address Superyacht & Marine Export Conference…

ASMEX Conference attracts interest from China…

More Information

For more information contact marketing@superyachtbase.com or visit www.superyachtbase.com

Alistair Murray, President of AIMEX said “This is an important step forward for the marine industry, uniting two very significant industry sectors and it will certainly increase the profile and support available for the Superyacht industry.  AIMEX has been managing Superyacht Australia for 18 months, so it is a logical step now to move to a position of working as one entity.”

The Australian International Marine Export Group (AIMEX) has gone from strength to strength over the past 10 years and is a major player in the Australian and international export market.  Barry Jenkins, the current Chairman of Superyacht Australia stated “The management, marketing and lobbying support AIMEX will bring to Superyacht Australia will ensure the Superyacht industry sector gets the recognition it deserves.  It is important that greater traction and impetus be given to key issues which are seen as barriers to more Superyachts visiting Australian waters.

Barry Jenkins stated “The decision to merge with AIMEX was taken at the recent Annual General Meeting of SYBA(Superyacht Australia) held in late November, with current directors and financial members unanimously agreeing this was the best way forward for the group.  SYBA had been struggling to remain an independent entity and needed to come under the umbrella of a vibrant, proactive industry body.”

Since being managed by AIMEX, Superyacht Australia has enjoyed an excellent profile and promotion internationally, has made some inroads into key lobbying issues and has developed a new website which is now gaining momentum as the portal for the Australian Superyacht sector. 

MaryAnne Edwards, AIMEX CEO will continue to manage the Superyacht division, so it is business as usual.  AIMEX has invited a representative from the Superyacht division committee to represent the Superyacht division on the AIMEX board.  Richard Morris, a past director of SYBA and current Superyacht division committee member is to be the appointed representative to the board. 

Alistair Murray said “the AIMEX board is excited by this initiative.  Given the current state of the global marine sector it reduces costs to the industry and allows a stronger more united voice to government.”

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“Where do you wish the owner would take the boat?”

55.6% said the South Pacific with Australia being specifically mentioned as somewhere they definitely want to see. (Triton Today Sun FLIBS)

All who attended the show felt the show was certainly more upbeat than last year, there was far more optimism in the market and boats were actually being sold. There were several country pavilions, Italy, France, Germany, UK, NZ and Australia. All felt the show had created a positive feel for the next 12 months. Whilst there is no great rush of orders there are certainly sales happening and although it is agreed it will still be several years before we see the marine sector back on track it is good to see the graph going in the right direction. Most agree there will not be a return to the heady days of not having to worry where the next sale came from. Buyers are now taking a far more conservative approach and hard negotiating seems to have become the norm. Everyone is working that much harder for the sale. Customer service has become a key success factor and the relationship building and networking opportunities provided by these shows is critical.
Muir Winches, a long time exhibitor at the show were displaying their range of pleasure and megayacht windlass anchoring systems. Fred Mayer the Muir USA representative said “the first 2 days were above expectations and prospects certainly look improved compared to past 2 years. He said he had noticed that the refit market appeared stronger and the new build market was showing some signs of resurgence. As a result prospective new sales have improved slightly. He said he had also seen a significant increase in commercial product enquiries.
David McQueen stated that Azzura Marine were happy to announce some additional refit work in Newcastle “The 90 MTR Sailing Yacht built by “Royal Huisman” will be visiting the Azzura Marine facility in Newcastle for the next 6 weeks to undertake a small amount of refit work”. Azzura Marine continues to expand its capabilities for refit work and Interior work in the Industry.

Joel Kmetz, a USA distributor for VEEM Propellers said “compared to last year more boat builders are looking to buy. VEEM has become popular due to the efficiency improvements it makes. The product is now starting to sell itself and has definitely taken a good percentage of the US market. People are now asking for VEEM by name and it has become widely accepted. Fort Lauderdale is always an important show for us as it is technically the first big show for the season.”
Carl & Grant Amor were extolling the virtues of the show and praising the show management for the way they were delivering on their sponsorship agreement. It was not hard to notice the presence of Aqualuma at the show with every single exhibitor wearing a lanyard with the Aqualuma brand. This coupled with the preshow promotion by the show organisers contributed to the Aqualuma stand having people 3 deep at times. Aqualuma now have a broad range of products from underwater lights to interior lights and the quality of these products is second to none. Aqualuma certainly were a shining light at the show and had impressed everyone with their products and their significant presence.
Captain Chris Stirling, Sydney Superyacht Services was extremely positive regarding his time at the show and was confident the show would bring business to his company. He had spent the 5 days visiting every Superyacht at the show and said he felt there was some positive movement now in the US market.
Chris Joseland, Australian Satellite Communications said “ This is a key show for our company particularly in building relationships with our key partners and making sure Superyacht Captains are aware of the quality services we provide. He stated “this show is definitely an improvement on last year and the SYBA stand is in an excellent location to take advantage of the flow of traffic.”

Australian exhibitors at the show who were excited by the outcomes they had achieved and contacts made were:

Aqualuma, Australian Satellite Communications, Azzura Marine, Aurora Logistics, Coursemaster Autopilots, Hydrive Engineering, Maritimo, Muir Winches, Riviera, Refit Australia, Sydney Superyacht Services, Sydney Superyacht Marina, Sam Sorgiovanni Designs, VEEM Propellers

FOR MEDIA INFORMATION:
MaryAnne Edwards
Chief Executive
Super Yacht Base Australia
Ph: +61 3 9682 4955
Fax: +61 3 9682 1088
Mob: +61 412 916 036
Email: medwards@superyachtbase.com

The conference which went for 2 days was an initiative of the new Newman government and was driven by Tourism Minister Jann Stuckey. DestinationQ is a whole-of-government initiative to grow tourism and re-position this state as the number one tourist destination in Australia.

300 key industry stakeholders attended the conference along with a number of high ranking Queensland government members of parliament and officials.

Edwards stated that the conference was a valuable experience, well run and covered considerable ground over the 2 days.  Edwards said she raised the key concerns of the superyacht sector asking the state government to support Superyacht Australia’s drive at federal level to remove regulations that are barriers to growth, to also support an amendment to the 35 metre rule for superyachts in the Great Barrier Reef and to look at the infrastructure now required to support this significant part of the Queensland economy.

A key barrier to attracting more yachts to cruise in Queensland is the charter regulations and Superyacht Australia has a submission on this issue currently sitting with the federal government. It is hoped this submission will lead to a full review of the charter regulations making chartering in Queensland and other parts of Australia an attractive option. 

“Currently we are losing business as the global superyacht fleet are bypassing us for destinations like Fiji, Tahiti and New Zealand where the charter regulations have been made more attractive.” Edwards said.

Minister Jann Stuckey who spoke recently at the Australian Superyacht and Marine Export Conference (ASMEX), the key conference for the superyacht sector, confirmed her awareness of the issues facing the superyacht sector and has publicly stated that the superyacht sector is an important part of the Queensland economy and this was again echoed at the conference and in the 2020 strategy.  This is a positive step forward for the superyacht industry which has a positive effect on a variety of sectors of the local Queensland economy.

Edwards said “it was refreshing to see both Premier Campbell Newman and Tourism Minister Jann Stuckey attend the conference for the 2 days and participate fully in discussion.  Newman was determined that nothing would be swept under the table and everyone’s comments and thoughts were recorded and would be further researched. He also committed to holding another conference in 12 months’ time to see how well things had progressed and be totally transparent regarding these outcomes.”

Edwards stated that the superyacht industry is fully behind this 2020 strategy. It is critical to work with the Queensland government to develop a new 5 year strategic plan for the industry.  Now is the time to set a clear direction for the future of the superyacht sector in Queensland and meet the government’s goal of doubling revenue. 

Edwards said “if the current barriers to growth were removed, being primarily the charter regulations and the 35 metre rule for the Great Barrier Reef, doubling the revenue from superyachts could be easily achieved.”

Thomas Weschelberger Qld Government, Superyacht Australia Chairman Barry Jenkins, Superyacht Australia CEO MaryAnne Edwards, Qld Minister the Hon Jann Stuckey,  Mal Lane Qld Government

Craig Davidson, General Manager Destination Development for Tourism Australia will be speaking at ASMEX, the Australian Superyacht and Marine Export Conference, about the importance and significance of the Superyacht Sector to Tourism Australia and how the organisations campaigns will interact with the Superyacht sector. This is a significant step forward for the Superyacht industry as this is a crucial focus in Superyacht Australia’s marketing campaign ensuring Australia is recognised globally as a destination that can deliver to high end clientele.

Tourism Australia has supported the ASMEX conference again this year and having Craig speak reiterates their recognition of the significant value a Superyacht visitation brings to Australia’s tourism.

AIMEX CEO MaryAnne Edwards said “it is fantastic to see a significant number of Superyacht industry businesses attending ASMEX, they will reap the benefits of such a dynamic line up of speakers and networking with fellow delegates from around the globe”

Having Tourism Australia’s involvement in the conference provides an amazing opportunity for businesses to put forward their opinions to Tourism Australia regarding how best to target the Owners and Captains of Superyachts to ensure Australia is on their radar.

The ASMEX conference is now just 10 days away, registrations are still open. For further information contact marketing@superyacht-australia.com or visit www.superyacht-australia.com