BIA and Mulpha partner to boost Oz boat shows in 2022

Boating Industry Association (BIA) and Mulpha Events Australia, the owner-operator of the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, have signed an agreement to deliver major boat shows across Australia in 2022.

BIA President Darren Vaux and Mulpha Australia CEO Greg Shaw announced the partnership in Darling Harbour, home of the Sydney International Boat Show, yesterday (16 December 2021).

It’s said the collaboration will enable the delivery of ‘innovative and engaging world-class events with a significant focus on the boating lifestyle for the benefit of exhibitors, partners, visitors and the broader boating industry’.

“This strategic alliance is a great fit with enormous potential in the delivery of best-in-class boat show experiences across Australia,” says Vaux.

“BIA and Mulpha have always had a close working relationship, and the partnership is the result of long-standing discussions between the two organisations on how to best serve the industry and promote the boating lifestyle to a broader audience.

“Boating has proven to be a standout leisure activity throughout the pandemic, and we are very confident the boating community will embrace the lifestyle focus of the boat show program in 2022 and beyond.”

BIA has successfully operated the Sydney International Boat Show for more than 50 years and has regularly produced boat shows in Brisbane and Adelaide.

Under the agreement, BIA will continue to own its major boat shows across Australia and retain overall financial control.

Mulpha Australia has managed and produced the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS) since 2002. Commenting on the new partnership, Shaw comments: “The marine industry is a truly exceptional community and one we are dedicated to support and grow. As a diversified real estate, hotel and hospitality business, Mulpha is well placed to expand the boat show offering to attract a broader audience and introduce more Australians to the boating lifestyle.

“Despite the many challenges over the last 18 months, the marine industry is thriving, and this has strengthened our commitment to deliver unique events to boating enthusiasts, industry and the wider community.

“Boat shows remain a significant place to connect buyers with marine businesses, and together with BIA, we can take the shows to the next level, introducing new initiatives and elements for the benefit of participating members, exhibitors and attendees.”