Delegates and exhibiters alike were very positive about Marinas 2011. The final debrief for the event will be held 13 July. Mike Harvey felt the initial feedback from the event was just as positive as that received after the very successful Marinas 2009 event. The introduction of conference breakout sessions was well received and the mix of big picture and operational topics worked well. The Club Marine Marina of the Year dinner was literally a magic night and the field trip was also well received. An inspection of d’Albora Marina – Pier 35 and Marina of the Year finalist Sandringham Yacht Club was a fitting conclusion to the three day event.
Marinas Generate 6,400 Jobs
The first Australian Marinas Value Pilot Study Report was released at Marinas 2011. The Report findings highlight the significance of marinas as economic and employment hubs within their communities. Based on 2008/09 data the estimated total direct economic value of Australian marinas as measured by total revenue generated was $1.16 billion or $3.6 million per marina. This figure includes marina tenants and contractors. The estimated direct permanent and casual employment generated by marinas was estimated to be approximately 6,400 or 17 persons per marina.
The full report includes 40 tables analyzing marina operations and boat storage. Median marina lease payments and median revenues from 22 revenue sources are examples of the data available in the report. The full 40 page report is free to the 63 marinas that participated in the study. It is available for $168 or $89 for MIAA members by contacting the MIAA officeinfo@marinas.net.au
Marina of the Year Awards
The Club Marine MIAA Marina of the Year Awards dinner was a night of celebration for Award finalists and winners. In the Under 140 Boats category the winner was Soldiers Point Marina Port Stephens NSW. Master of Ceremonies Andrew Chapman highlighted a number of the marinas attributes including the marinas exceptionally strong customer service ethic. In the category Marinas 140 Boats and Over there were three finalists. Bundaberg Port Marina, Cairns Marlin Marina and Empire Marina Bobbin Head. Finalist certificates were presented to Bundaberg and Cairns marinas. The winner was Empire Marina Bobbin Head. The MC congratulated all three marinas and highlighted Empire Marina management and administrative procedures as one of a number of their strengths. The final category was for Club Marinas. The finalists were Royal Motor Yacht Club Broken Bay, Royal Perth Yacht Club and Sandringham Yacht Club. The MC noted the judging panel commented that this was a particularly close and high quality category. The winner was announced as Royal Motor Yacht Club Broken Bay after Royal Perth and Sandringham received their finalist certificates. The night was capped off with a fabulous magic show by Matt Hollywood. Well known marina industry identity John Hogan was called to the stage and provided superior entertainment.
