7:01 PM Tue 8 Sep 2009 GMT
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'Jetboarder in action - as I said, perhaps I'm a bit past this, but I'll certainly be taking a look during the Southport Boat Show.'
Theo Spykers
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Regional boat shows such as the tremendously successful Rosehill Gardens Show staged by the Boating Industry Association of NSW in Sydney and the Melbourne Leisurefest (previewed last week) have proven good money spinners for the industry.
Now, with the inaugural Southport Boat Show no doubt dealers in the South East Queensland area are hoping for a similar result. Some comment I've heard 'around the traps' suggest this show follows too hard on the heels of the Brisbane Boat Show held only two weeks prior.
Be that as it may, another boat show, particularly in a boating 'boom area' such as the Gold Coast should attract plenty of local interest.
The three-day show opens at 9am on Friday morning at the Parklands facility at Southport. It will trade 9am to 5pm Friday and Saturday and 9am to 4pm on Sunday.
The show also incorporates the Gold Coast Fishing Classic, headed by prominent fishing and media identity Paul Burt, a familiar face to all Gold Coasters through his involvement as the angling guru and weatherman on Channel 9 Gold Coast News.
There's certainly plenty of attract anglers aside from the chance to 'talk fish' with Paul Burt; Dave Moss will be a prime attraction with his 15,000-litre Supertank Fishing Show and there'll be ample opportunities to grab some bargain tackle.
Several of the boating industry's best-known names will be hosting displays, including Avante Marine, Sirocco Marine, Rae-Line Boat Seats, Queensland Ski Boat Sales, Ranger Tugs and Coastal Powerboats.
One boat on display I am yet to catch up with is the ZEGO sportboat being displayed by
Gabba Sporting Products and there's another display sure to attract the young surfer types with the Jetboard, more or less a stand-up, powered surfboard.
I would think I'm a bit past that.
However, put me down as a definite starter for the Jack Daniel's Experience, rated (by me) as a show highlight.
Definitely a couple of interesting exhibits still worth mentioning in the form of a vacuum sealing system to keep fresh caught fish fresh and a couple of innovative anti-foulants and corrosion inhibitors on display.
For those who really see themselves as seafood consumers Thommo the Bush Cook will be on hand demonstrating the right (and wrong!) ways to prepare food for the table.
With ample free parking, not too expensive admission (and, pay once and you can return for a second, even third visit) the Southport Boat Show is definitely worth a visit.
Admission is only $10 (single adult) or $8 for Seniors Card holders and pensioners, with kids free if accompanied by an adult.
For further information visit the website,
www.southportboatshow.com.au
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Suzuki-powered Stessl headed for the fishing grounds - ths is one of the many rigs Coastal Powerboats will have on display at the inaugural Southport Boat Show. - Theo Spykers
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by Bob Wonders
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Sellicks Hill, SA
