Brisbane Boatshow Numbers Down



Last weekend saw what was billed as the biggest and most diverse Brisbane Boat Show in its 51 year history, and while we certainly enjoyed ourselves, there are mixed reports from attendees.

It appeared to the writer, that numbers were well down on previous years and more than one exhibitor told us that they had not received anywhere near the level of interest from potential customers they were expecting. A number of attendees told us that they felt the show lacked the sort of "show deals" that could not be found elsewhere but no doubt the tough economic conditions are responsible for lacklustre sales results.

On the up side, the feedback on the performances from the Fishing and Boating Stage was generally positive, particularly Brett Thomson's discussion of lures at the Yamaha Supertank,  and the interactive sailing demonstrations presented by Yachting Queensland and the Kids Marine Zone appeared popular amongst the younger visitors.

There certainly where lots of boats to look at (and dream over) with more than 100 exhibitors who brought in more than 400 boats, dozens of PWC’s, hundreds of engines and plenty of marine electronics and accessories with the 37ft Boston Whaler and the Sea Ray 370 Sundancer high on many peoples wish list.