Rivergate attends flagship marine and superyacht conference

Conference attendees enjoying light lunchbreak discussion at the InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort pool

Rivergate has showcased global opportunities to strengthen and support the superyacht industry boom at a flagship national marine industry conference on the Gold Coast.

Since its inception 10 years ago, the annual Australian Superyacht, Marine Export & Commercial Marine Industry (ASMEX) has become the leading industry event in the Asia Pacific region, setting the agenda for the future promotion of the Australian marine industry.

This year more than 100 delegates and speakers from across Australia gathered to discuss hot topics for the industry including economic recovery, growth in marine exports, defence innovation, electric hybrid engines, importing a superyacht into Australia and the latest superyacht visitation data for 2020.

Deputy Premier Hon Dr Steven Miles, Minister for State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning officially opened the conference outlining the future investment plans in marine projects in Queensland that will contribute to the economic recovery of the state.

Conference MC Alistair Murray AM introduces the Electrification Panel, who were speaking about latest developments in electric and hybrid electric engines for recreational and commercial vessels in Australia and abroad.

In the last year, the industry has experienced strong sales and positive business results due to the demand for recreational vessels and accessories and government funding for commercial and defence continues.

David Good, ASMEX CEO released the 2020 superyacht visitation data, which showed that foreign flagged superyachts stayed an average of 128 days in 2020 compared to an average of 73 days in 2019. In the last year, there has been a 75% increase in the length these vessels are staying in Australian waters, contributing over $100 million to the local economy.

The conference was an exciting opportunity for Rivergate to highlight the impact our proposed multi-million-dollar expansion will have on the national and international marine industry, supporting an increase in superyacht, defence and commercial vessels in our waters.

The expansion is estimated to create 2,000 jobs including 1,500 marine and related positions and 500 tourism jobs in a post COVID-19 employment boom for Queensland. It would include the construction of a massive $35 million shiplift capable of lifting superyachts of up to 3,000 tonnes, or around 90 metres, for vital inspections, maintenance, repairs, and refits.

Other plans include a hardstand with capacity for multiple superyachts, three large refit sheds, two in water service berths, a 5-storey Trade Centre with offices, training rooms, café, crew accommodation and recreation facilities, and extensive car parking.

Rivergate is recognised as one of the top three shipyards in the world and respected by superyacht owners and crew for its highly-skilled trades, safe environment, and warm hospitality.

We have serviced more than 300 vessels over the past 14 years, with recent visitors including MY Amatasia, MY Promise, MY Ramble on Rose, MY Ningaloo and MY No Comment.

The ASMEX conference was held from May 17-19 at the InterContinental Resort, Sanctuary Cove. Guest speakers included, Martin Redmayne, Editor-in-Chief, The Superyacht Group, Martin Baum, Managing Director of Pantaenius Yacht Group, and Alistair Murray AM, Chairman of Ronstan and Vice President, Australian Sailing.