Bush 'n Beach Fishing Magazine Location reports & tips for fishing, boating, camping, kayaking, 4WDing in Queensland and Northern NSW
VISITORS to the 2018 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show will be spoilt for choice with hundreds of trailer boats on display at the southern hemisphere’s premier boating event from May 24 to 27.
Complementing The Boatyard at The Docks and expanding available space for trailer boats and other craft, the new ‘Sports, Leisure and Fishing Boats’ precinct will boast a 5,000sqm outdoor space dedicated to boats up to 8m including RIBs, day boats, weekenders, aluminium and fiberglass fishing boats, plus high-performance sports, ski and tow boats.
The ‘Sports, Leisure and Fishing Boats’ precinct will also feature daily fishing demonstrations and masterclasses at the Yamaha Supertank, educational boating seminars and workshops, and a jam-packed program of family-friendly entertainment.
Major brands that have joined the next wave include JSW Powersports with Sea Fox and Malibu boats, Fishing & Leisure Boats with the Nitro and Mako brands, Whitewater Marine representing Stacer aluminium boats from Telwater and the Tigé range from the US, Queensland Marine Centre with Sea Ray and Boston Whaler, Northside Marine showing Axis, Stabicraft, Whittley and Surtees, Wynnum Marine with Cruise Craft,
SCIBS general manager Johan Hasser said exhibitors in the trailerable segment have embraced the new precinct, with many booking bigger spaces this year. “With the introduction of our new dedicated trailer boat precinct featuring an extensive range of trailer boats, with everything from ski boats and performance RIBs, to trailer boats fitted out for angling or diving, visitors are guaranteed to experience a ‘show within the Show’,” Mr Hasser said. “We are certain it will inspire visitors who are eager to dip a toe into the boating lifestyle and those keen to upgrade to the latest and greatest models.”
Haines Signature returns to SCIBS’ milestone 30th edition with a range of sports fishing models, including the 788SF, which is the largest centre console the Queensland boatbuilder has ever built. Haines Signature’s Queensland and Northern Territory state sales manager Des Hughes said the 788SF centre console features an all-new hull with full composite construction, a 16 to 34-degree signature variable-deadrise running surface, and 500 litres+ fuel capacity.
“With the recent resurgence in American centre consoles, this Australian-built model is going to offer a hot locally-made alternative with a number of big advantages, not least being towability,” Mr Hughes said. “The 2.5m beam means this 26-footer will be legally trailerable without a permit. The 788SF has become a social media sensation and is sure to be a massive drawcard at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.”
Gold Coast Quintrex dealer Surf Coast Marine will display a mix of fishing side console boats, bowriders and cabin boats, including the launch of the new Apex hull design, which gives a soft, dry ride and is available in boats from 5.1 to 6.3m. Surf Coast Marine’s principal dealer Paul Banning said they will have enticing boat-motor-trailer packages on offer at SCIBS 2018, featuring Evinrude and Suzuki engines. “We are looking forward to exhibiting in the new precinct where the spotlight will be on these versatile, towable vessels,” Mr Banning said.
Formerly known as Marine Tune, the Burleigh Heads-based Gold Coast Boating Centre is one of the largest dealerships in the region and is gearing up for a major display at the 2018 Show. Co-owners Scott Mahon and David Edwards said the new format is “ideally suited” to their range of trailerable boats, including the Formosa, Horizon aluminium boats and Sea Rod brands – all proudly Australian made.
“Last year we had four boats at SCIBS and in 2018, we will have 30,” Mr Edwards said. “We will have the exciting Sea Rod 2018 model on show – a crossover bowrider and family recreational boat that is ideal for Gold Coast waterways. There will be a range from Stessco, which are made here, including the fully-enclosed cabin model we think will generate a lot of interest. We will also be launching our new branding at SCIBS and celebrating the Show’s 30th edition with our valued customers and suppliers.”
The national Boating Industry Association has been instrumental in encouraging its members to exhibit at SCIBS 2018, emphasising that 85 percent of boats in Australia are trailer boats, appealing to families, commercial and recreational anglers, first-timers and seasoned boaties.
Exhibitor applications are still open. To register as an exhibitor, contact the Boat Show office on 07 5577 6011 or visit www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au.
Running May 24 to 27, 2018 the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show attracts more than 40,000 visitors and 300 exhibitors to a spectacular showcase featuring hundreds of boats and thousands of marine products across four days.
SCIBS offers FREE park ‘n’ ride services from Warner Bros. Movie World, along with limited on-site parking, available pre-paid.
