Darling Harbour is gearing up to play host to one of Sydney’s most exciting annual events, the Sydney International Boat Show (SIBS), from 30 July – 3 August. Once again, the show will anchor in the city’s favourite harbour for five days of boating entertainment, events and the opportunity to witness a unique collection of famous and historic boats.
   Organised by the Boating Industry Association of NSW (BIA), SIBS promises to cater for all tastes with an array of events designed to entertain the whole family, from the keenest of boaties to those who simply want to learn more about the boating lifestyle.
  “We have an extremely exciting line-up of attractions and events at this year’s show,” said Domenic Genua, Marketing and Event Manager for BIA. “We’re pulling out all the stops to provide visitors with an experience to remember. Whether you’re a boating enthusiast or simply interested in coming down to Darling Harbour for a fun-filled day for all the family, we have plenty for you to do and see. With more than 250 exhibitors, you can find everything you need to achieve the ideal boating lifestyle under one roof.”

Discover Recreational Boating Tours

  Show ticket holders will have the opportunity to take a free tour of Sydney Harbour on a Matilda Rocket. The trip will take less than one hour and your friendly host will be able to show you some of the special places where every day families can enjoy their boating. You will see where some of the yacht clubs are, boat ramps, public moorings and some great fishing spots.

Classic and Old Boat Display

  Nothing draws a crowd like the magnificent works and craftsmanship of old classic vessels. With the assistance of the Classic Speedboat Association and the Sydney Heritage Fleet, visitors to the show will be able to see some of the most magnificent vessels to ever grace our waterways. Those interested in power or sail will see vessels of both types in a display designed to show the classic and creative alternative to modern craft.

Spirit of Mystery

  Pete Goss and his Spirit of Mystery will be special guest at this year’s show. Pete built a wooden lugger and followed in the wake of seven Cornishmen who made a heroic journey to Australia 154 years ago. Proud of his West country roots and an enthusiastic wood-worker, the project is something Pete has wanted to do since he heard about the inspirational voyage of the Mystery in 1854.
  The 37ft Mystery was an open Mounts Bay Lugger built in Newlyn. Times were hard and the seven Cornishmen, all related by either blood or marriage and share holders in the Mystery, made the decision to try their luck at the Australian gold rush over a pint in the Star Inn, Newlyn. It was suggested that the Mystery be sold to cover the passage. Captain Richard Nicholls, with a couple under his belt and in good spirits, said: “I’ll take you in the Mystery.” – and so an amazing adventure was born.
  Leaving Newlyn on Saturday 18 November 1854, the Mystery travelled about 11,800 nautical miles in 116 days before arriving in Melbourne on 14 March 1855.
  Having built an identical replica of the vessel, Pete recreated the voyage arriving in Melbourne not long ago.

Walk of Fame

  Australia’s maritime history is rich with classic vessels and those that have achieved some amazing feats. While it is not too uncommon to see these vessels gracing our beautiful waterways, rarely does the opportunity arise to get close and inspect them.
  To date the following vessels will be part of our marina Walk of Fame: Lady Hopetoun 1902, 77ft; Boomerang 1903, 73ft; Waratah 1902, 108ft; Spirit of Mystery.

Further information can be found at: www.sydneyboatshow.com.au

Bellingham Marine awards

  The 2009 winners of the MIAA Awards for Best Marinas in the categories ‘Marinas with 85 berths or more’ and ‘Marinas with under 85 berths’ were Empire Marina, Bobbin Head and Fenwicks Marina, Brooklyn. Both Marinas were products of Bellingham Marine.
  “At Bellingham each project is unique. Our design staff work with you, the client, to create a Marina customised for your site and your market as has been the case with these two award-winning Marinas,” said Bellingham Marine Australia’s Managing Director, John Spragg.
  Bellingham Marine also leads the way with certification as the world’s first low-carbon marine industries business. The certification is part of the low-carbon marina initiative, a joint venture between the Carbon Reduction Institute (CRI) and the Marine Industries Association of Australia (MIAA).
  The MIAA has set a goal of a 20% reduction in the operational carbon footprint of Australian Marinas by 2015.
Bellingham Marine – Hall 4; Stands 429-430.

BIAS Boating Warehouse

  BIAS Boating Warehouse will be at the 2009 Sydney International Boat Show presenting a full range of boating accessories and equipment you need for an enjoyable day on the water - from GPS & fish finders (Eagle, Lowrance, Furuno, Garmin, Raymarine), life jackets, anchor winches, barbeques, water sports gear, wet weather clothing, toilets, bilge pumps, electrical accessories, and much more.
  Their experienced staff are all boating people, just like you! They understand what owning and maintaining a boat is all about and are committed to helping you get the most enjoyment possible from your pride & joy.
  Come and see the team for a full colour catalogue with thousands of products and bargains!
BIAS Boating Warehouse – Hall 2; Stand 231.

  One hundred-plus years combined experience in marine autopilots and steering systems is freely available on the Australianowned Coursemaster Autopilots stand once again this year.
  Combine that with technical expertise in marine electronics ranging from small hand-held VHF radios through to large satellite communication systems, and your powerboat, sailing, and super-yacht questions are covered. Tacktick by Suunto are world leaders in wireless, solar powered instruments and their award-winning Micronet systems and multi-wind, and maxi displays will be on display. The Micronet Race Sailmaster system is the ultimate tactical race compass and wind shift indicator.
  Seiwa’s new range of combination chartplotters are powerful, flexible and compact with quick disconnect brackets on models suitable for trailerboats and flybridge installations.
  The Coursemaster Autopilots stand will also display HyDrive hydraulic steering, Interphase Forward Sonars, KVH Satellite TV domes, Koden Sounders, Shakespeare, FLIR thermal imaging cameras, Seaview antenna mounts, MX Marine and Icom marine radios.
Coursemaster Autopilots – Hall 4; Stand 401.

d’Albora Marinas

  Australia’s largest marina group with more than 1400 berths, d’Albora will be prominent on the marina at this year’s show, representing its 7 marinas in NSW and Victoria.
  Situated on popular waterways throughout Sydney, Port Stephens and Melbourne, d’Albora can tailor packages to suit any budget, while offering superb service and additional benefits such as reciprocal berthing, Advantage Card membership and access to established cruising clubs.
  Our clients and visitors choose d’Albora Marinas for the unparalleled access to 24-hour fuel, dockmasters on hand to assist, premium berthing facilities, as well as maintenance, service and support specialists onsite.
  Visit our stand on the Marina and find out how you can go in the running to win $5,000 in berthing.
d’Albora Marinas – on the Marina.

DeckHardware

  DeckHardware is a family run business, which was founded 15 years ago. Our aim at DeckHardware is to wholesale the finest marine products from around the world to the marine industry. Dealing with high quality manufacturers has allowed us to diversify our range to provide products to end users in other areas including fitness, farming and industrial manufacturing. Our product range comes from industry leaders like Blue Performance, Forespar, Liros, Man Ship Marine, PeterG’s, Schaefer Marine, Splicing Nut and Velocitek.
  We will have a large range of products on display including a large selection of Liros Rope. Some of which we will be selling at the Show. The ever popular range of Blue Performance will also be on display with selected Show Specials available. Peter G’s Cleaning Products will also be available. Do you homework at www.deckhardware. com.au
DeckHardware – Hall 1; Stands 163-164.

Dockpro

  Dockpro specialise in on-water dry storage of boats. They are the Australian suppliers of Sea Pen Advanced Dry Docking Technology and CanDock Modular Floating Systems.
  Sea Pen is the most advanced dry docking system available. It is unique in that it allows boats from 6m to 30m of all makes to be kept dry docked at water level. A vessel moored in a Sea Pen never needs to be anti-fouled, is kept in pristine condition and will always perform like brand new. Sea Pen is very easy to use and suits most mooring situations.
  Sea Pen is an Australian invention that is patented around the world and is manufactured in Australia. It was a finalist for the 2007 and 2008 Australian Marine Industry Innovation award.
  CanDock is a floating modular system for jetskis, tinnies and boats up to 6m. It is also used for walkways, floating platforms and other large scale projects.
Dockpro – on the Marina.

Flexiteek

  Flexiteek has grown to become one of the most favoured deck finishes around the world. This International Company now has distributors in over 35 countries, servicing both private owners and manufacturers. In Australia, Flexiteek have agents in each state that can give advice, supply and fit a deck to your vessel. Most decks are custom made in Sydney and supplied in complete custom made panels that are ready to glue down.
  The total cost to supply and install is considerably less than a teak deck saving you money and protecting our environment by saving our precious teak forests.
  Flexiteek has significant advantages over a timber deck, it is easy to maintain, does not grey, is stain and UV resistant and extremely cost effective.
  Apart from the marine industry,
  Flexiteek decks can also be used in residential applications such as on balconies and bathrooms.
Flexiteek – Hall 4; Stand 411.

Empire Marina voted best in Australia by peak industry body

  A privately owned, family run marina has been voted the best in the nation by the peak industry body, the Marina Industries Association of Australia (MIAA).
  Empire Marina’s 200-berth marina at historic Bobbin Head won Australian Marina of the Year for large marinas, 85 berths and over.
  The winner was chosen from a competitive nationwide field to win the prestigious award and underwent a demanding evaluation process for selection.
  Awards judge Tom Chapman said, “Empire Marina Bobbin Head is a first-class marina in a highly sensitive and pristine National Park. The marina infrastructure has been developed with the highest level of consideration for the environment.”
  Empire Marina Bobbin Head has recently completed an 18-month re-development of the historic Bobbin Head Boatshed, formally owed by the Halvorsen family.
Empire Marina – on the Marina.

Fusion

  Fusion have launched their new Marine stereo that also plays DVDs (MS-AV600), this product will only just be selling at the Sydney boatshow.
  The MS-AV600 is an AM/FM/CD/DVD/ MP3 Stereo that also has the advantage of plugging in the unique Fusion I-Pod dock which then gives you total access and waterproof support of your iPod on the boat. You will see the product playing DVDs on a normal GPS-Plotter screen that is now becoming the norm on boats over five metres.
  Fusion will also be launching their all new Marine Cube speakers (MS-BX225) which are great for clear and crisp music in your saloon or cabins. 
  To match these speakers Fusion is also launching a unique marine Active Subwoofer that is easy to install and has the Amp builtin.
  This unit is perfect for accompanying the small Cube speakers.
Fusion – Hall 3; Stands 349-351.

Hood Sailmakers

  This will be Hood’s 34th continuous attendance at the Boatshow.
  For all enquiries on sails and furling equipment and sail fabrics, Hood’s knowledge places them at the top of the market.
  There will be representatives on the stand to discuss any issues from sail conversions on furling headsails to boom and in mast furling systems to what sail fabric is best suited for your yacht.
  There will be a display of furling systems on show and a large collection of sail fabrics, along with launching sock display.
  Hoods offer a free measure and quote - ask about our ‘Boatshow Special’.
Hood Sailmakers (Aust) – Hall 1; Stand 165.

RFD

  A new range of Plastimo Cruiser branded life rafts has been launched onto the Australian market by Australia’s leading marine safety specialist, RFD.
  Designed specifically for recreational and leisure boaters, whether for power driven or sail boats, the range of Cruiser rafts are available in four, six and eight man sizes. These are the ideal raft for the safety conscious boater who is not required to conform and carry a SOLAS or ISAF/YA compliant raft.
  The Plastimo Cruiser rafts are manufactured in Europe to the highest standards. The construction of the rafts is a unique double chamber technology, which offers strength, resistance to abrasion and superb air tightness.
  RFD is so confident of the quality of the Cruiser rafts that it is happy to offer the manufacturer’s 12-year limited warranty across the Plastimo Cruiser range.
  RFD has been a world leading supplier of marine safety products and inflatable watercraft since 1920.
RFD – Hall 1; Stand 100.

Sea Tow will save you on land and sea

  While many boaters have been helped out of tight spots by Sea Tow on water, additional member benefits are on land through the ever expanding Sea Tow Advantage Network.
  Members have access to a range of exclusive discounts that could easily save you the cost of your membership. Deals include $50 off a Cobra radio, $25 off a C-Tek battery charger and $70 off an Enerdrive 80 watt solar charger kit. There’s also 10% off Exide batteries and Sea Tow will even deliver it free if you’re stranded with a flat.
  Through our association with finance broker Finlease members get a preferential .5% discount on marine finance, potentially saving boat buyers hundreds if not thousands of dollars.
  Of course, if members ever need a tow, run out of fuel, get a tangled prop or flat battery, Sea Tow will be there. Call 1800 SEATOW 1800 732 869
Sea Tow – Hall 3 Stand No. 342.

The Haines Group

  The Haines Group will have the full range of Suzuki Outboards including the New Suzuki DF60 DF8 and DF9.9, (we are once again not allowed to run our DF300 test tank – due to competitor objections).
  We will also have new models for Signature and some anniversary editions to mark the brands 25th Anniversary. The Signature models include a 535BR and 602F which is all new for 2009.
  Traveller has gone through a re-brand and is now sporting new decals, new web site and some new models.
  The TF185 and TB172 looks set to be very popular models. Seafarer has a new model in the pipeline but it won’t be ready for Sydney. The Haines Group manufacture trailer boats from 4.6m to 7.7m from our factory in Wacol, Qld.
The Haines Group – Hall 2; Stand 203.

Icom

  Introducing the MXA- 5000 AIS Receiver and the IC-M35. The MXA- 5000 simply connects into your existing Icom VHF marine radio to give you a full-featured AIS receiver. All you need is a compatible GPS chart plotter, or GPS PC and software and you’re ready to hit the high seas with confidence! Its great list of features include: dual channel simultaneous receive, dual mode data output, a built-in antenna splitter as well as GPS input for data multiplexing.
  Icom’s IC-M35 is the successor to the fantastic IC-M33, the first floating radio in the world. It has the same great features, including a large backlit LCD display, 5W output and a strong IPX7 waterproof design.
  Great new features include: ‘Clear Voice’ which reacts to background noise, ‘Voice Boost’ for instant maximum audio and a noise cancelling microphone for better audio quality.
  Best of all, it still floats!
Icom – Hall 1; Stands 194-195.

International Paint Send her to the scrap heap?

  No need …
  Would you believe that by simply using International Paint’s range of resins, glues and paint systems that you could restore this run down wreck into a modern and attractive vessel?
  International’s sales and marketing team did just that.
  They purchased this very run down vessel for $200, hired a shed near their office and refurbished one half of the boat leaving the other half untouched. The contrast clearly demonstrates the difference International products can make to the aesthetics, not to mention the value, of your boat.
  Come and see the end result at SIBS where the boat will be on display with International’s new mobile display unit. While you’re there ask for a copy of our booklet detailing how the ½-boat project was achieved and discuss your boats refurbishment with International’s team of experts.
International Paint – Hall 3; Stand 311-314.

Maxwell stainless steel rope/chain windlass range

  Following on from the overwhelming acceptance of the Maxwell RC10 and over a decade of global success with the Freedom, Liberty and HRC Series automatic rope/chain windlasses, the all new Maxwell RC8 windlass range is a superbly engineered, extremely functional and beautifully designed windlass with combination chainwheel.
  Effortless automatic retrieval and deployment of either 6 or 8mm chain and up to 14mm rope combination rodes. An innovative heavy duty stainless steel pressure arm, coupled with a unique rope/ chain gypsy, giving an unparalleled level of performance.
  The RC8 allows simple two-piece installation, the quick change gearbox saves time and money, allowing easy maintenance or retrofitting without disassembly of the windlass.
  Manufactured from marine grade 316 stainless steel, the topworks can be fully disassembled utilising the handle provided, a screw driver and common allen key, making regular service and maintenance a breeze. No special tools required!
Maxwell Marine – Hall 3; Stands 305-306.

Nautilus Marine backs Fishing Stage

  Leading Australian marine insurer Nautilus Marine has thrown their resources behind the Sydney International Boat Show by taking a lead sponsorship role.
  The centre stage area at the show is being sponsored by Nautilus Marine and will be named the Nautilus Marine Boat Insurance Fishing Clinic.
  Nautilus Marine is keen to save you money on your boat insurance.
  All that boaters need to do is compare their existing boat insurance coverage against the Nautilus Marine policy.
  We are very confident of not only saving you money, but also offering total peace of mind coverage for your boat and equipment.
  There’s one reason why Nautilus Marine continues to grow so rapidly, and that is simply by offering comprehensive coverage at highly competitive premiums. Make the comparison and judge for yourself …
  In these tougher than normal times, Nautilus Marine is pleased to support the Sydney Boat Show.
Nautilus Marine – Hall 4; Stand 400.

Volvo Penta Oceania

  Since its launch in 2005, Volvo Penta has, with the help of the IPS system, successfully taken an increasingly greater share or the inboard market, and as a result of the systems’ immense flexibility with multiple installations.
  To date, the engines in the IPS system have been Volvo Penta 4 and 6 litre diesel engines with a maximum of 435hp. Two entirely new power classes are currently being launched, with larger drive units and larger engines suiting vessels up to 100 feet.
  A new range of D series engines is due for release August 2009. Volvo Penta’s 5-cylinder D3 is developed from the latest design in modern diesel technology. The engine is extremely lightweight and compact.
  Combined with features like common rail fuel injection system, double overhead camshafts, 4 valves per cylinder, variable geometry turbocharger, after cooler and the EVC system (Electronic Vessel Control) a world-class diesel performance, combined with low emissions, is achieved.
Volvo Penta Oceania - Hall 4, Stand 402.

Vicsail – Beneteau

  Vicsail will be displaying a range of Beneteau yachts including the New First 40 and the Lagoon 380 and 420.
  The founder of Vicsail, Brendan Hunt, is the driving force behind the Sydney office and heads up a team with a wealth of sailing experience that encompasses all types of sailing from cruising in Australia, the Pacific, the Americas and the Mediterranean, to ocean racing, training for the Olympics and regular club racing out of the CYCA.
  The Sydney office is the exclusive importer of Lagoon to Australia and the NSW importer of Beneteau yachts and can offer you not only a complete range of new and used Lagoon Catamarans and Beneteau yachts, but also a range of boats to suit your sailing needs.
  Vicsail Sydney is located in the heart of the sailing industry in Australia at Rushcutters Bay, next door to the famous Cruising Yacht Club of Australia.
Vicsail Beneteau – on the Marina.

Slime slowing you down?

  Slime and barnacles are no more with the commercial release in Australia of digital ultra-sonic antifouling technology, the Boat Sure, by Sure Systems.
  Easy to install, the Boat Sure is attached to the hull (no skin fitting or dry docking required), using it as an amplifier. Boat Sure emits ultrasonic sound waves that remove and prevent algae, bio-film and barnacles.
  Boat Sure offers a wide range of benefits:
  • Reduces algae and bio-film build-up
  • Improves antifouling performance
  • Extends the period between cleaning
  • Reduces drag – maximises fuel economy and boat speed
  • Cost effective – reduces down-time and maintenance
  And the good news just gets better! Sure Systems offer solutions for all water-based applications where algae, pathogens and bio-film accumulate, including marinas, lakes, ponds, pools, cooling towers, cooling intakes. Whatever the problem, Sure Systems has you covered!
Boat Sure – Hall 2; Stands 222-223.

Yanmar unveils all new Sterndrive

  Having just been launched onto the international stage, the ZT350 sterndrive will be displayed at the Sydney International Boat Show, the first public viewing on the winter boat show circuit.
  The new ZT350 sterndrive is designed to support Yanmar’s popular BY2 and 6LPA Series of marine diesel engines and delivers the type of refined performance expected from Yanmar.
  The new hydrodynamic ZT350 Sterndrive from Yanmar boasts a new type of hydraulic clutch for smooth and quiet operation. The inclusion of precision forged gears brings Yanmar durability to a whole new level.
  Two counter-rotating propellers are used to maximise acceleration and enable tight-hold tracking in rough conditions.
  Performance on both single and twinengine installations is enhanced with larger rudder dimensions allowing superior handling and manoeuvrability. The ZT350 sterndrive weighs just 112kg.
  “This new ZT350 sterndrive is a breakthrough product for Yanmar in Australia,” said Power Equipment National Marine Sales Manager, Michael Blair.
Yanmar – Hall 5; Stand 508.

Waves Overseas

  Waves Overseas are proud to introduce the new range of Aqua Marina inflatables to Australian shores. By utilizing massive economies of scale and a global sales network, Aqua Marina inflatables enter the Australian market at an extremely competitive price.
  Aqua Marina inflatables use high quality reinforced materials from top European manufactures, all boats are tested and comply with the international CE standards.
  Aqua Marina inflatables are available in three practical models to suit different boating conditions.
  The slat deck is sure to appeal as a small yacht tender as it is light, compact and easy to handle.
  The very versatile air floor model will find a wide variety of uses in addition to being a great tender boat, it’s sure to be popular with holidaying and caravanning families as it is also light, stable and portable.
  While the heavy duty sports model will appeal to the more adventurous for fishing, diving and all general boating.
Waves Overseas – Hall 1, Stand 167.

Musto

  Musto – the world’s leader in wet weather gear – is again proud to display at the Sydney International boat show. Established in 1971 by Keith Musto, the well engineered, user friendly, reliable and dependable clothing that is Musto is now recognized globally in every sport that it tackles – lifestyle, equestrian, shooting and of course marine. It is worn by the top sportspeople in every discipline, as is it is its reliability in being the best when performance counts.
  The lifestyle, equestrian and shooting areas are new to Australia and have been met with terrific enthusiasm by those who know Musto.
Musto – Hall 1; Stand 179.

Stern First

  Stern First, the dinghy davit specialist, will be displaying the latest innovations for stowing your dinghy on your cruiser or yacht. New products on display include the Australian launch of the new Weaver Hoist, a fantastic hydraulically assisted mini-crane davit that is mounted on the swim-platform and is a must when lifting heavier RIBs from the water.
  Also on display will be a full range of davit systems to suit all vessels, including stern rails, barbecues and inflatable boats. Stern First specialize in dinghy and tender solutions for cruisers and yachts ranging from 20ft to 60ft and their specialist staff will be able to advise you on a suitable solution for your boat.
Stern First – Hall 3; Stand 301.