Australian Forum Updated on the Value of Club Marinas

9th May 12

A network of Australian Yacht and Boat Club managers have been meeting in Adelaide at the first ever forum to discuss Club specific issues and opportunities. The forum arose from a meeting of Club managers at the last marina industries conference in 2011 where it was agreed there are ongoing common issues and needs that can be addressed through a formalised network of Club managers.

Marina Industries Association of Australia (MIAA) Board member and General Manager of the Royal Motor Yacht Club Broken Bay Karen Baldwin said the forum was an important development. “The extensive agenda covering topics such as bench-marking, governance, insurance and event management will enable Club managers to take back to their Clubs new ideas and practices to support Club growth”.

At the forum MIAA Executive Officer Colin Bransgrove provided an overview of 2011 research on the financial, social and environmental performance of Club marinas. “The data compiled by the Recreational Marine Research Centre (RMRC) indicates Club marinas account for 17% of all the 356 marinas in the country and generate around ¼ of all marina gross revenues and while employing on average 28 people. 70% provide structured social and recreational programs available to the general public and 96% have formal environmental management plans. In summary Club marinas have a very good triple bottom line although there are some areas where performance can be improved”.

The forum organiser and CEO of the Sandringham Yacht Club Richard Hewett said the sharing of information and ideas is aimed to improve Club productivity. “Clubs are operating in a challenging environment. The demands of members, communities and governments are ever increasing”.

Marina Industries Association of Australia (MIAA) Board member and General Manager of the Motor Yacht Club of Tasmania John Gard said the forum was an important development for the recreational boating industry. “Yacht and boating Clubs play a lead role in getting people into boating and staying active in safe boating. The more we can share information and ideas on how to build and maintain our active boating members the better off the boating industry will be”.

Copies of the 92 page RMRC report are available from the MIAA and a three page highlights report is available on the MIAA web site at www.marinas.net.au

Further info. contact colin@marinas.net.au p +61 2 9439 5806

NSW TO HOST INTERNATIONAL MARINE CONFERENCE

2nd Apr 12

The NSW Minister for Roads and Ports Duncan Gay today announced a partnership with the Australian boating industry to stage a major boating conference in Sydney in 2013.

Mr Gay made the announcement at a Maritime Advisory Council address today.

Mr Gay said the State Government was fully supportive of this initiative to collaborate on and strengthen boating safety and the marine industry.

“Sydney siders are keen boaters and boating safety is a very important issue for us so I’m pleased to be able to announce that Sydney will be hosting this inaugural event,” he said.

“Sydney is the ideal host city for this event which will attract around 600 delegates and up to 80 exhibitors from across Australia and overseas.

“State Government support and participation will be through collaboration between the Office of Boating Safety and Maritime Affairs (OBSMA), within Transport for NSW, and the Maritime division of Roads and Maritime Services.”

Marine13 will, for the first time in Australia, bring together representatives of marinas, recreational boating and boating safety to the one event.

“Stakeholders from these various streams of the boating and marine industry will be able to share information and ideas in a bid to prepare the sector for challenges and growth into the future.

“This event provides a significant opportunity for the new arrangements this government has put in place where the strategic and policy experts of OBSMA and the operational experts of Maritime can partner to support the future directions of the boating and marina industry.”

Mr Gay said the recreational boating industry was one of the largest industries in NSW.

“The recreational boating industry is estimated to be worth $2 billion to this State and some $7 billion nationally,” he said.

“The NSW boating industry employs around 14,000 people and the related sector of recreational fishing supports more than 32,000 jobs in this State.”

The government is currently liaising with potential overseas participants such as the US Coast Guard, Canadian Safe Boating Council and the US National Safe Boating Council and looking at industry companies to exhibit advances in such areas as propeller strike safety and boating education software.

Darren Vaux, Chairman of the Boating Industries Alliance Australia and Andrew Chapman, President of the Marina Industries Association of Australia, are co-promoters of the event.

“We welcome the involvement of the NSW Government as a principle partner in delivering this important event,” said Mr Vaux.

“It will provide an unprecedented platform for collaboration, innovation, education and understanding between key stakeholders in the marine Industries in Australia and abroad and lay the foundations for a safe and prosperous boating future.”

“Attendance at this event is a must for industry and government leaders alike who drive change and are interested in innovation, technology, management, risk management and pathways to success in the boating and marina industries in Australia and beyond.”

Andrew Chapman said that the Marina Industry was looking forward to building on the success achieved over the previous National Marina Conferences with the synergies that the recreational boating and safety sectors would bring to the forum.

“The Forum will attract significant interest and attendance from the emerging markets in Asia,” Mr Chapman said.

“There is no doubt that Sydney is the right place to stage the first forum across all marine sectors.”

Marine13 is scheduled to be held at the Sydney Convention and Entertainment Centre from 28 to 30 April 2013.

MEDIA CONTACT: Emma Logan M: 0467 741 049

For the expressions of interest form or further information please visit: www.marine13.com

and/or www.marinas.net.au/industryprograms/conference-marine13

Research Dispels Marina Stereotypes

27th Mar 12

Myths as to the exclusivity of marinas are exposed in recently released research conducted by the Recreational Marine Research Center at Michigan State University for the Marinas Industries Association of Australia (MIAA). The comprehensive research into Australian marinas found that marinas provide very significant public and community benefit.

During the 2010/11 period nearly 60% of Australia’s 356 marinas held structured social and/or recreational programs or events available to the general public. Programs such as ‘Try Sailing’ or celebratory events such as weddings are typical according to MIAA Executive Officer Colin Bransgrove. Interestingly marinas in Tasmania (80%) and Victoria (72%) were most likely to hold programs or events for the public. Colin Bransgrove said “there is a trend across all states to provide restaurant/food beverage facilities at marinas to meet local demand. This is contributing to the growing role of marinas as important social hubs with their communities”.

Over 80% of marinas provided the general public with some access to the marina. This is highest in NSW where 93% of marinas provided access. About 67% of Australian marinas provided support to their local community in the form of cash or in-kind support. For larger marinas the percentage was 81%.

While a core marina function is to provide services to those that pay to store their boat at the marina, most marinas (84%) also provided services to boaters who did not rent space at the marina. At larger marinas this rose to 97%. Nearly 40% of marinas had a boat launch facility that was available for use by the general public. In addition, marinas provided non-renting customers access to buy fuel (59%), repair services (52%) as well as launch and haul-out services (58%).

Colin Bransgrove said “this most comprehensive research provides the hard evidence that the vast majority of marinas are a significant community asset delivering a wide range of social, recreational and cultural benefits”. Copies of the 91 page report are available from the MIAA - to order email: info@marinas.net.au

In the Interim, a three page highlights report is available on the MIAA web site via the Resources tab.

Boat Storage Demand Exceeds Supply

19th Mar 12

The demand for boat storage space at many Australian marinas exceeds current capacity. In different areas of Australia there is the need for additional storage spaces. These are findings from the recently released 2011 marina survey report entitled: Australian Marinas: Economic, Social and Environmental Performance. 31% of all Australian marinas participated in the survey.

Approximately half of Australia’s marinas provide boat storage on both land and water. The average boat occupancy across all marinas during the 2010/11 period was 83%. A quarter of marinas reported over 95% occupancy rates. More than half (52%) of marinas had waiting lists for boat storage spaces during part or all of summer 2010-11 and over a third (39%) had waiting lists during non-peak seasons.

The report details a number of variables effecting the supply/demand equation for marina boat storage spaces. Type, size and location of the marina are all important variables. For example across Australia, club marinas had a higher average occupancy of 94% compared to non- club marinas at 80%. NSW had the highest average occupancy for all marinas types at 90% while the lowest was for marinas in SA/NT at 63%. Larger marinas (250 plus spaces) had the highest occupancy at 87% while small and mid-size marinas both had 81% occupancy over the 2010/11 period.

Marina Industries Association of Australia (MIAA) President Andrew Chapman said while the findings highlight significant variations in marina boat storage demand by state, type and size; the national picture is both positive and negative for industry and for the 3 million people regularly involved in recreational boating. “The good news is that the majority of marinas are seeing healthy demand that provides a strong platform for business growth. On the negative side is the looming supply shortage; the result of interrelated regulatory, lease, planning and investment barriers that have stifled the creation of new marinas and the expansion of existing marinas over the last decade. With the forecast long term growth in boating registrations many regions will not be able to cope with the boat storage demand. The problem is being exacerbated in urban regions where urban consolidation means less people have the option of home boat storage. For Australia to maintain its boating, sailing and fishing outdoor lifestyle it is essential that governments better understand the economic and social significance of recreational boating and proactively work with industry to address the looming supply shortage” he said.

Copies of the 91 page report are available from the MIAA and a 3 page highlights report is available on the MIAA web site at www.marinas.net.au

Cover of Australian Marinas: Economic, Social and Environmental Performance: Report 2.

Further info. contact E: colin@marinas.net.au

T: +61 2 9439 5806

Health of the Australian Marina Industry Report Released

8th Mar 12

The Marina Industry Association of Australia (MIAA) in association with the Recreational Marine Research Centre (RMRC) at Michigan State University has released two reports arising from the 2011 Health of the Australian Marina Industry Survey. The first focuses in marina financial performance and tends while the second report is more extensive including social, environmental and economic matters.

These reports build on the findings from the 2008/09 Australian Marina Value Pilot Study released in 2011. The reports are based on a large sample size of 31% of Australia’s 356 marinas. According to Dr Ed Mahoney Director of RMRC “this is the most comprehensive marina study ever conducted anywhere. It provides a tremendous insight into the operation, performance and economic contribution of Australian marinas”.

The reports highlight the significance of Australian marinas as economic, employment and social hubs within their communities. It is estimated that in 2010/11 the
direct permanent and casual employment generated by marinas was 15,900 (excluding contractors). Marinas in Australia are positive about their financial future while noting significant variation across states. Overall all club marinas and 94% of non-club marinas anticipate the same or higher revenues in 2011/12 as 2010/11.

MIAA President Andrew Chapman said “the health of the industry survey is a demonstration of the commitment and professionalism of the industry to underpin long term decision making and industry sustainability. These reports provide extensive analysis by marina size, type and (state) location. They will not only benefit industry but assist governments’ to better understand the benefits of marinas within their communities. Detailed findings from the reports will be progressively released over the next three months”.

The research project has been assisted with the support of the Australian Government Department of Industry, Innovation, Science, Research and Tertiary Education and agencies with the QLD, NSW, and Vic state governments’. Copies of the reports are available for A$169 from the MIAA at info@marinas.net.au

Further info contact E: colin@marinas.net.au T: +61 2 9439 5806

MIAA President Andrew Chapman CMM

Winner of Bellingham International Marina Scholarship Heads to UK

16th Feb 12

The Australian recipient of the inaugural Bellingham International Marina Education Scholarship Craig Evans departed for the UK on 23 February. Craig is the Executive Officer of the Cruising Yacht Club of South Australia. The Scholarship enables Craig to travel and participate in the six day Advanced Marina Management (AMM) course being held 26 February - 2 March 2012 in Poole, UK. The course is being conducted by the British Marine Federation and is recognised by the Global Marina Institute (GMI). Craig will also visit a number of UK marinas after completing the course.

Craig will join 13 other course delegates attending from the UK, Portugal, Montenegro, China, UAE, Turkey, Netherlands and Ireland. Craig said “I am excited and privileged to be participating in this truly global AMM course. I am sure the information, knowledge and networks I gain from the course and subsequent marina visits will benefit my work at the Cruising Yacht Club”.

Andrew Chapman, President of the Marina Industries Association of Australia (MIAA) said “the Australian marina industry is extremely appreciative of Bellingham Marine Australia for significantly assisting the professional development of the Australian industry. The MIAA was very pleased that the UK winner of the Scholarship who attended our September 2011 AMM added significant value to the course outcomes. We look forward to hearing of Craig’s reflections on the course and visits to a number of UK marinas”.

Bellingham Marine Australian Manager John Spragg said Bellingham recognise the importance of a professional and well trained industry. “Bellingham has a long history of supporting the marina industry across the world. Bellingham invest in this and other industry initiatives to assist the sustainable development of the industry”.

For further information contact:

MIAA - Colin Bransgrove, t: 0434018018, e: colin@marinas.net.au

Craig Evans: Bellingham International Marina Education Scholarship Winner

Additional Notes:
The Global Marina Institute Ltd (GMI) was formed in 2011 as a partnership between British Marine Federation and Marina Industries Association of Australia. It delivers global marina training and certification with the aim of maintaining and increasing standards in marinas across the world. The two organisations work together to maintain existing certifications and to develop new certification pathways and training courses to meet the needs of both existing marinas and marinas developing around the World.

For further details of the partners:
• Marina Industries Association of Australia www.marinas.net.au
• British Marine Federation www.britishmarine.co.uk

New Marine Conference and Exhibition Announced

20th Dec 11

In a joint statement on 19 December, the Boating Industries Alliance Australia (BIAA) and the Marina Industries Association of Australia (MIAA) announced the first whole of boating industry conference and exhibition under the banner of Marine 13.

MIAA has a long history running a successful conference and exhibition every two years. This joint venture will deliver a broad industry conference under three parallel streams of marinas, recreational boating and boating safety. The BIAA and MIAA partnership is another sign of the wider marine sectors willingness to work cooperatively and more productively together.

Marine 13 will be held on the East Coast of Australia around April/May 2013. Final details on the location and exact time will be finalized early 2012.

BIAA Chairman Darren Vaux said the announcement was an important milestone for the recreational boating sector in Australia and neighbouring regions. “We now have the framework in place to bring all the stakeholders in the recreational boating sector together. Being held every two years these events will be a “must do” for industry and government committed to excellence in sustainable growth and improved safety outcomes for recreational boating. Through the provision of inspiration, information and education Marine 13 will address matters relating to on-water infrastructure, the needs of recreational boaters, promotion of the boating lifestyle and the delivery of safe boating”.

The Australian New Zealand Safe Boating Education Group (ANZSBEG) will play an active role in development of safety content for Marine 13. ANZSBEG Chair Neil Patchett said the partnership with industry was intrinsic to the successful promotion of safe and responsible boating across all jurisdictions.

MIAA President Andrew Chapman said this development was important for the marina sector as it will add value to the conference and exhibition for the marina sector. “We are committed to building on the strength of the marina content from previous years as well as embracing the additional benefits that come from the sharing of knowledge at a whole of industry conference”.

Enquiries to - colin@marinas.net.au or nikparker@biaa.com.au

Launch of Certified Marina Professional Program

14th Dec 11

Launch of Certified Marina Professional Program

A new professional development program has been launched by the Global Marina Institute (GMI), a partnership between the British Marine Federation and the Marina Industries Association of Australia.

The new Certified Marina Professional (CMP) program will sit alongside the well established Certified Marina Manager (CMM) program, continuing the GMI’s delivery of global marina training and certification with the aim of maintaining and increasing standards in marinas across the world.

The CMP is designed to recognise long standing and proven professionals within the marina industries that have not been directly managing a marina. The certification will give a long overdue opportunity for the wider sector professionals to gain recognition and become part of the worldwide GMI community.

Certification requirements include a minimum of 10 years senior management experience with the last five within the marina industries, completion of the Advanced Marina Management School and submission of a 5,000-word management report.

In reviewing its first year of operation, the GMI Board has concluded the GMI has had a successful year. Fifty-seven delegates attended Marina Management courses from around the world and 18 certificates were issued to Certified Marina Managers and Operators with another six in the pipeline for early 2012.
At its recent meeting the GMI Board also signed off its three year Business Plan with some stretching targets, including the delivery of courses in Asia and Europe. Marinas 101has already been delivered in Korea and is scheduled for delivery in Singapore in early 2012.

For further information please contact the MIAA Industry Education Officer on T: 02 8197 4753 or eduction@marinas.net.au

Australian and China Marina Industries Strengthen Ties

9th Dec 11

The Marina Industries Association of Australia (MIAA) had a significant presence at the Xiamen International Boat Show (4-7 November 2011) and the 1- 3 December China (Haikou) Yacht Forum 2011. The presence cemented the China/Australian relationships reflected in the Memorandum of Understanding signed in November between the MIAA, Xiamen Yachting Industry Association (XIYA), the China Yacht Club Alliance (CYCA) and the Boating Sub-Branch of the Shipbuilding Industry Association.

MIAA President Andrew Chapman said the trip was extremely successful in strengthening relationships to underpin long term business opportunities for Australia and China. “MIAA is driven to assist the development of a sustainable marina sector in China so that MIAA and its membership can prosper though the cooperative initiatives that are developed. Furthermore, a sustainable marina sector in China will result in a stronger international industry providing additional business opportunities for the marina industries in both Australia and China”.

At the Xiamen International Boat Show and the China (Haikou) Yacht forum 2011, MIAA had extensive meetings with Mark Yang, the Vice Secretary of the Xiamen Yachting Association, and Mr. Weihang Zheng, the Chairman of the China Yacht Club Association. Topics of discussion focused on ways both countries can work together to support the development of the marina industries in China and to support MIAA and its members with business opportunities in the expanding Chinese market place.

There was extensive discussion about MIAA’s education programs aligned to standards set by the Global Marina Institute and how education of the Chinese marina sector could align with international standards. As a result of discussions, a marina industry course will be held in China in early 2012 and a Chinese delegation will participate in MIAA’s Sydney Marina Study Tour 1-2 August prior to attending the Sydney International Boat Show.

Given the Chinese government commitment to enhance environment practices, the MIAA’s Clean Marinas program was also the subject of discussion with objectives set for its roll out in China. Additionally the International Gold Anchor Rating Scheme for marinas was discussed as a way the Chinese marina sector can adopt the world’s best practice customer service program for marinas.

Pic: Andrew Chapman delivering a key note address at the China Yachting Forum .

Contact andrewchapman@tmhi.com.au or Colin Bransgrove at MIAA at 0434018018 or colin@marnas.net.au

Marina Survey Highlights - Marinas Commitment to the Environment

28th Nov 11

MEDIA RELEASE

Date: 28 November 2011

Marina Survey Highlights Marinas Commitment to the Environment

The preliminary findings from the annual Health of the Australian Marina Survey have been released. Despite tough trading conditions the survey highlights that more marinas are committed to increase spending on improvements to environmental related facilities and technologies. There is a 16% increase (to 39%) in the number of marinas across Australia that anticipate spending more this financial year than last on new or improved environmental protection/enhancement facilities and technologies.

The survey was administered by the Recreational Marine Research Centre for the Marina Industries Association of Australia (MIAA). 106 marinas or 31% of all Australian marinas participated in the survey. MIAA President Andrew Chapman said “the annual survey is a reflection of the sector’s growing maturity and its capacity to lead informed debate about the important economic, social and environmental roll marinas can play within waterside communities”.

Of the surveyed sites, 85% of the marinas anticipate employment to be at the same level this year as last, while 11% are expecting to increase employment. A previous study by RMRC for MIAA indicated Australian marinas employee on average 17 people. The survey result is positive news for the many coastal communities that have marinas.

Nearly half or 49% of marinas expect gross revenues to be up this financial year with just 4% anticipating a drop in revenues. 52% of marinas anticipate paying more taxes and lease payments this present financial year, while 41% project increased capital expenditure. This indicates a possible issue for some marinas given limited security of tenure of the sea bed area and the need for regular capital expenditure given the weather exposed nature of marina infrastructure. Andrew Chapman believes that some government authorities do not appreciate the wider benefits of marinas. “Excessive taxes and lease charges in some states are inhibiting the potential of marinas from flourishing as strong economic, employment and social hubs with their local communities” he said.

For a copy of the survey preliminary results see www.marinas.net.au . Further information contact Colin Bransgrove at MIAA colin@marnas.net.au

Important Changes to the OHS Act & Regulations 2000

16th Nov 11

The planned date for the commencement of the Work Health and Safety (WHS) changes is 1st January, 2012. From that date it is vital for all marinas, boating / yacht clubs, shipyards, service providers and associated industry bodies be familiar with, and able to comply with the legislated changes which have been harmonised to ensure a national approach and compliance to WHS issues. Please visit the various websites below to view information relevant to your state.

1) Boating Industry Association of NSW

2) Workplace Health and Safety Queensland

3) Work Safe Victoria

4) Safe Work SA

5) WorkSafe Western Australia

6) Workplace Standards Tasmania

7) Work Safe ACT

8) NT Work Safe

Marinas 2011 a High Quality Event

8th Aug 11

Delegates and exhibitors have rated Marinas 2011 very positively. The international marina conference and exhibition was held in Melbourne 20 – 22 June. Commenting after the final debrief the Chairman of the organizing committee Mike Harvey said “analysis of the feedback from both delegates and exhibitors show the event was as well received as the highly rated predecessor Marinas 2009”. He said “although delegate numbers were less than hoped for, the quality of presentations, the level of participation, and the sharing of ideas and information between those attending was notably better and more valuable to participants than at Marinas 2009”.

“The high Australian dollar impacted on our overseas delegate numbers but on the other-hand overseas exhibitor numbers were up as their products have become increasingly cost competitive in the Australian market” he said.

Highlights of the conference included the key note address delivered by Joe Ueberroth, the President of Bellwether Financial Group Inc. He indicated in this current financial climate investment should focus on quality over growth and he was cautiously bullish about the future of the marine sector. Dr Ed Mahoney launched the marinas report showing that marinas generate 6,400 jobs in Australia and create annual revenues of around $1.16B. He also launched a world first research project: the ‘2011 Australian Health of the Marina Industry Index’ and encouraged all marinas in Australia to register for participation. Sessions on social media rated highly by delegates who appreciated being guided through the complexity of the topic and getting clear direction on how social media it can work as part of the business marketing mix.

The Marina of the Year Awards dinner was a great success. The winner in the first category Marinas Under 140 Boats was Soldiers Point Marina Port Stephens NSW. In the 140 boats and over category the winner was Empire Marina Bobbin Head NSW. The winner of the Club Marina category was the Royal Motor Yacht Club Broken Bay NSW.

The field trip on the Wednesday took delegates by boat through the impressive Melbourne Docklands redevelopment with its four marinas and then included an inspection of d’Albora Marina Pier 35 marina. After passing marinas at Williamstown delegates travelled by bus to conclude the trip at Sandringham Yacht Club. Delegates were very impressed by the Club’s 340 floating berths, new multi-million dollar club house facilities and extensive boatyard.

MIAA President Andrew Chapman said Marinas 2011 was a major investment by MIAA on behalf of its members. “The objective of the event is to assist marina businesses learn and expand their business knowledge; to network and share information and to celebrate and enjoy the camaraderie of industry colleagues. To this end Marinas 2011 has been judged a great success by all those who invested their time and money in participating”. He said the organizing committee has already started planning for Marinas 2013 and the location will be announced early in 2012.

Photo: MIAA Board at Marinas 2011 Conference

Photo by Des Pitfield Photographs

Marinas Generate Over $1Billion Per Annum

8th Aug 11

The Marina Industry Association of Australia (MIAA) has released a report of research conducted by the Recreational Marine Research Centre (RMRC) at Michigan State University highlighting 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. The estimated direct permanent and casual employment generated by marinas was estimated to be approximately 6,400 or 17 persons per marina.
MIAA President Andrew Chapman said, “The findings demonstrate that marinas are a vital asset providing major economic and employment benefits within their respective communities. Well planned and managed marinas provide an excellent platform for sustainable economic and employment growth within communities. The Report provides the evidence to back up the case for marinas being recognised by government as significant infrastructure that deliver measurable economic and employment benefits within local communities.”
The Report includes 40 data tables providing for example data on the significance of marinas as social and recreational hubs. The report provides sales and revenue figures from 22 specific sources. From the sample of marinas the median gross revenue from Restaurant/F&B was $1.26million. 37% provided facilities for meetings and functions such as weddings.
Lack of security of tenure for many marinas was highlighted by data indicating that for more than 50% of marinas their current lease will have expired on or before 2030. The 40 page Report can be purchased for $165 from the MIAA at info@marinas.net.au
Dr Edward Mahoney from RMRC is a world authority on recreational marine research. As a result of the Australian industries enthusiasm for developing meaning data his team in Michigan has, in association with MIAA and its partners, developed the Health of the Marina Index. As well as collecting economic data it will also track marina environmental and social performance data on an annual basis. Australian marinas can register now to participate in this ground breaking research project at www.austmarinagroups.com

Changes Loom for the Traditional Marina

24th May 11

The traditional marina is increasingly under pressure as consumers drive change according to
speakers at Marinas 2011. Joe Ueberroth is the keynote speaker at the international
conference and exhibition for the marina industries being held in Melbourne 20-22 June.
According to Joe Ueberroth, “consumers in all markets are demanding more – better service, higher quality, more personalized care, greater convenience and greater social responsibility; the marina industry is not immune. Marinas that can adapt to the changing needs of boaters and align themselves with current and future trends in the marketplace will succeed.”

Joe Ueberroth from the USA is highly qualified to speak on the future of marinas. He succeeded in
the marina business by applying the hospitality model of management to the marina industry. As a
result, his company Bellport grew quickly to manage yacht clubs and resort marinas worldwide.
From 2003, as CEO of public travel company Ambassadors International he guided a successful
expansion via acquisitions including cruise lines, Bellport and Bellingham Marine. After leaving
Ambassadors in 2009, Joe purchased the group’s marine assets. He now serves on the boards of one
public and seven private companies.

Change that is being driven by regulators is also an increasing issue for traditional marinas according
to Brian Toyota from ML Design Masterplanners. Brian will present as part of a plenary panel session
at Marinas 2011 entitled ‘Sustainable Marina Development’. Canadian-born Brian Toyota joined ML
Design in 1991. Since that time, he has played a key role in the planning, design and delivery of
major projects throughout Australia and South-East Asia. Prior to joining ML Design, Brian was the
Design Director responsible for the master planning and architectural design of the landmark
Sanctuary Cove integrated resort/residential community on the Gold Coast.

“The Context in which our marinas are located has, over a period of time, significantly changed. With a greater emphasis now placed on the quality of its environment and surrounds. Ongoing changes to legislation have seen the need to change our approach to the form and function of these facilities in order to ensure they meet the ever tightening expectations, without making them commercially redundant”.

The full program for Marinas 2011 International Conference and Exhibition with the theme of ‘new
horizons’ can be viewed on line at www.marinas.com

New Global Marina Organisation Formed

23rd May 11

British Marine Federation (BMF) and Marina Industries Association of Australia (MIAA) have reached agreement to form GMI (Global Marina Institute). This is seen as a natural evolution of work they have both been doing on marina training and certification in their own geographic regions but are now taking the opportunity to go global.

The parties have agreed to form GMI to provide education, training and certification for marinas and marina staff to raise standards and professionalism within the marina industry in Europe, Australia, Asia and the rest of the world excluding the United States.

The new organisation will be chaired by Mick Bettesworth CMM, Chief Commercial Officer of MDL Marinas Group PLC and with a Board of Directors including Sarah Dhanda, Director of Business Development BMF; Debbie Burns CMM, Marina Manager Ocean Village Marina (UK) and Chair of UK/Europe CMM Group; Jeff d’Albora, Director of MIAA; Steve Sammes CMM, Director MIAA and General Manager of Gold Coast Marina and Chair of Australia/Asia CMM Group and Colin Bransgrove, Executive Director MIAA. This Board collectively represents more than 100 years of experience in marina management.

The partners have a long history of delivering marina management training across eight countries with delegates attending courses from over 30 countries. Going forward GMI will be working with local delivery partners in the non English speaking world to develop courses in native languages.

GMI will take responsibility for the Certified Marina Manager Programme (CMM), the Certified Marina Operators Programme (CMO) and the Certified Marina Service Programme (CSM) and marina managers courses outside of the USA. GMI will also be working to develop new training and broader certification programmes for other marina staff.

For further information please contact either Sarah Dhanda sdhanda@britishmarine.co.uk or Colin Bransgrove colin@marinas.net.au M 04340180

GMI: L-R. C Bransgrove (MIAA), S Dhanda (BMF), J d'Albora (MIAA), S Sammes CMM (MIAA), M Bettesworth, Chairman (UK), D Burns CMM (UK)

Photo by Des Pitfield Photography