Exhibitors positive after weekend's Mandurah Show

THE signs of a flat economy have been felt at this year’s Club Marine Mandurah Boat Show, but show organisers said nothing could take away the atmosphere that makes this show a winner.

The 2011 Club Marine Mandurah Boat Show was held over the weekend (14-16 October) at the Mandurah Offshore Fishing and Sailing Club.

More than 600 boats, including 95 on water, and more than 200 exhibitors made up the 2011 Club Marine Mandurah Boat Show; and an increased level of entertainment, attractions and special guests rounded off the Show.

Show director Peter Woods said that while numbers attendees was down on previous years, show visitors still enjoyed a full and exciting show, and feedback and been largely positive.

“Overall this year we had a little over 16,000 attendants; and despite the fact that this was down about 19 per cent from last year, people were still selling products and all exhibitors were extremely positive about the weekend,” Woods said.

Woods said he was extremely pleased with this year’s Show, saying that changes and new additions this year meant a fresh and exciting boat show was presented.

“What makes the Mandurah Boat Show so special is that it is more than a 'Boat Show', it has such a diverse range of exhibitors and products, and there’s truly something for everyone, no matter what your passion.”

Greg Fisher CEO of the Show’s major sponsor Club Marine Insurance, was pleased with the result of this year’s Show and is happy to be involved with such a successful event.

“Being associated with the Mandurah Boat Show is a sensational opportunity to promote Club Marine Insurance, and is also a way for us to give something back to the boating community,” said Fisher.

While several exhibitors said numbers were down, many positive sales still went ahead at this year's show.

GME marketing manager Matthew Heap told Marine Business: "In my eight or so years going to Mandurah Boat Show, this show was probably the best for actual sales. We had strong results for both radios and our entertainment products."

Nick De Toro MD of WA boat dealer Aquasports Marine was pleased with the outcome of the show this year selling several NZ built Surtees boats including two fitted with the brand new Mercury 150HP four stroke engines.

Nick said it made the difference having a boat in the water fitted with a Mercury engine to take qualified customers on a boat test at the show. "It enabled closing the deal that much easier," he said.

Mercury used the Mandurah Boat Show as the launching pad for its new 150 hp four-stroke outboard.

Brendan Grieve principle of R Marine Perth told Marine Business the show was a great chance to reconnect with Riviera owners and a fabulous PR opportunity with a terrific atmosphere.

"We had 80 of our customers join us at our function on Saturday night, which was great. While nothing was signed up on the three days of the show, we anticipate sales to come soon from our efforts."