PLANS are well under way as the Brisbane Boat Show returns to the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre from August 23-25, 2019.
The show, one of the largest recreational boat shows in Queensland, fills more than 20,000sq m of floor space across four halls at the South Bank venue.
Considering the show’s history spans over 50 years, this three-day celebration of recreational boating is much anticipated and always satisfies both committed boaties and those new to the boating lifestyle. While plenty of visitors come to the show from across the state, locals from the city’s surrounds also enjoy this show where industry comes together to display and offer the best in recreational boating. While the boats are naturally the show’s heroes, all the boating gear you might need or just want plays a big part too. It’s the one place in a convenient location where all your boating needs can be met.
Boating Industry Association Queensland Council Chairman Andrew Fielding said given Australia’s recreational boating manufacturing powerhouse lies at Brisbane’s doorstep, visitors can be assured of seeing the best and latest designs at this show. “Boat manufacturing plays a big part of the Queensland economy and this event showcases the quality and innovation Australia has to offer,” he said.
As Andrew notes, given the Brisbane Boat Show holds the honour of taking place nearby Australia’s boating manufacturing epicentre, the show promises to present a combination of excellent Australian-made rigs, together with brilliant products from overseas showcasing all the gear and gadgets you need for a superb day aboard.
The Brisbane Boat Show always features the latest electronics, safety equipment, fishing tackle and other gear, with world-class aluminium and fibreglass boats. Over 60 organisations have booked exhibition space, and they will bring more than 500 vessels that will present an excellent array of boats catering to various interests. They include fishing, water skiing, wake boarding, personal watercraft, canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddle boards and more.
Once again, family cruisers are proving as popular as ever. While the show is the best place to see and buy boats, the BIA also aims to entertain and educate at the show. With a commitment to safe boating, show organisers have pulled together an excellent line-up of government agencies to ensure visitors have the opportunity to better understand how to stay safe and maximise their time on the water.
On stage will be a mix of educators and entertainers, and the fishing masterclasses make a welcome return. Learn how to fish like never before at these masterclasses, which are included with the cost of entry. A massive 83 percent of people visiting the show express an interest in fishing. The fishing clinics reflect that interest, with presentations ranging from inland waterway fishing to the more adventurous offshore competitions, presenting videos, photos and stories to match.
BIA president Alan Blake said fishing represents the great Australian pastime of enjoying the outdoors with friends and family. “The Brisbane Boat Show brings together the leading dealers and manufacturers from across Australia and beyond, ready to present the latest in fishing, boating and marine technology,” he said. “This is the show where all your questions about spending more time on the water and catching bigger and better fish can be answered.”
Transport – parking
The Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre provides undercover parking for up to 1500 vehicles. The carpark has direct lift access to the centre’s multiple convention floors and exhibition facilities. Carparks 2 and 3 are best for the exhibition halls.
Rates are as follows:
- 0-2 hours: $15.00
- 2-3 hours: $20.00
- 3-4 hours: $25.00
- 4-plus hours: $35.00
- Maximum daily rate: $35.00
Train
The South Brisbane Railway Station adjacent to the Convention Centre on Grey Street or South Bank Railway Station are the most convenient stations to the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre.
Bus services
The Cultural Centre Station on Melbourne St and the South Bank Busway Station, on the corner of Colchester and Tribune Sts, are the closest bus stops to the show.
CityCats and ferries
The public transport ferries CityCats operate every day and stop at the South Bank River Terminal on the Clem Jones Promenade. The inner-city ferry travels between the CBD, North Quay and Kangaroo Point, stopping at South Bank Terminal 1 and 2 on the Clem Jones Promenade.
Taxi
Taxi ranks are located outside the main entrance to the centre on Merivale St and a taxi drop-off is located at the Convention Centre Grey St entrance.
From the airport
Flying in to see the show? Both Brisbane domestic and international airports are 30 minutes’ drive from the centre. The AirTrain connects South Brisbane Station to Brisbane’s international and domestic airports, with stops in the Brisbane CBD and Fortitude Valley. Tickets and a timetable for this service can be found at the information desk at the airport.
On foot
The Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre is a short stroll across from the Brisbane CBD connected by Victoria Bridge. Hotels, restaurants and bars, South Bank beach and its parklands are all within walking distance from the show.
Tickets
Adult tickets are $15, children (six to 17 years) are $5 while under fives are free. A family ticket for two adults and up to three children is $35. Seniors and pensioners tickets are $12. The popular ‘5 after 5’ deal returns this year, with individual entry after 5pm just $5 when you buy the ticket at the show (family tickets excluded). The show opens at 10am daily, so bring along your family and friends and plan your next big adventure at this year’s Brisbane Boat Show.