Brisbane Tinnie & Tackle Show 2011

FishMax recently attended the 2011 Brisbane Tinnie and Tackle Show and we weren't alone. Organisers, Marine Queensland, reported that over 34,600 visitors attended.

It was great to talk to many attendees and exhibitors, although many visitors did mention that many of the "exclusive" show discounts and specials didn't appear much better than retailers regular specials, particularly at the lower end rods and tackle.

Almost all attendees we interviewed did agree that its a great opportunity to see a large amount of boats and gear in a small amount of time, and most mentioned the fact that the show was combined with the national 4 x 4 Show was a plus. All agreed the admission fee is about right ($12 adults, $10 concession, kids under $15 free).

Many of the visitors we spoke to also commented that they particularly liked seeing the new gear and smaller exhibitors, showing new products that they don't necessarily see in the big tackle stores.

Certainly, the wet weather  and parking diffficulties didn't seem to keep people away, with Tinnie & Tackle Show Event Manager Jason Plant declaring the event a success. "Queenslanders love getting outdoors and enjoying the boating lifestyle," Plant said.

Generally feedback from the exhibitors we spoke to was positive, and in particular, it appeared that mobile refrigerators, electronics and motors were the big winners in terms of sales. Those exhibiting boats at the higher end/price bracket did comment that the show was, as named, more for the "tinnie" fisherman and so interest was slow.

Response to the various speakers at the show seemed to be mixed, but there was no doubt that the show's international guest, extreme fisherman Matt Watson from New Zealand, was a very popular speaker [Editors note: read our interview with Matt Watson next week!] and the kids clearly loved the 4BC Marine Workshops for kids.

One of the State's premier Bream fishing tournaments is run in conjunction with the show, with Team Samurai Reaction winning the 2011 Humminbird Queensland Open trophy and $8,000 and second prize going to Team Sunstate Hobie/TT Lures/Aussie Home Loans taking out second prize.

Marine Queensland, who organised the event, also wish to remind everyone that  the Brisbane Boat Show  will be held from the 25th to the 28th of August 2011 and dates for the 2012 Brisbane Tinnie and Tackle Show will be announced shortly.