The Marina Industries Association (MIA) has announced that the Marinas24 International Conference and Trade Exhibition (Marinas24) will be held at the Royal International Convention Centre (RICC) Brisbane, Queensland on 27-28 May 2024.
The MIA’s biennial event has become a must attend event for marina owners, operators and suppliers. It provides delegates with the most efficient and effective way to meet with suppliers, get up to date with the latest range of products and services available on the market, network with industry peers and remain informed of industry trends, changes and innovations.
The event remains timed to follow the 2024 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show so delegates can factor a day or two at the show ahead of Marinas24. Opening with the usual excitement of its traditional welcome cocktail party on the evening of Sunday 26 May, the Conference & Trade Exhibition will run for two full days, closing with a gala dinner on Tuesday evening. A Study Tour of Brisbane shipyards and marinas will be held on Wednesday 29 May.
Andrew Chapman, MIA President commented, “With the growth of the event and particularly the exhibition in recent times, it is important to get this information to market as quickly as possible so those wishing to attend, and exhibit can confidently plan their attendance.”
Held on the Gold Coast in May this year Marinas22, attracted a record number of exhibitors and over 320 delegates, despite some border closures remaining and travel hesitancy. Suzanne Davies, MIA CEO explained, “The exhibition space sold out well in advance of Marinas22. Given the exhibition and supplier side of the show is so important we focused on identifying a venue that could accommodate growth so that delegates get to see the broadest range of products and services available.
“The RICC gives us that flexibility along with the intimacy that our delegates prefer by having a sole use of a venue. While we had good international representation this year from New Zealand, the Pacific, Asia, Europe and the United States, we expect that to increase for Marinas24 without the issues around travel and given the buoyancy of the industry.”
Immediately adjacent to the RICC is the Rydges Fortitude Valley, the MIA has negotiated a hotel buyout for the conference to ensure delegates can stay close to the venue, so close in fact that it is like being in the same venue. There is a vast array of hotels around the area and Brisbane if overflow is required.
As the host city for the 2032 Olympics, the focus on Brisbane means it is a city in high demand for business events. Mike Harvey, Manager of East Coast Marina in Brisbane, and event Chair for the last 16 years is a local and commented, “Brisbane has really grown up as a city and a destination over the last decade. There is so much to do, see and experience now. Not only is it a great boating destination with some of the largest maintenance facilities in the country, but it also has a great reputation for its food, shopping and entertainment.
“Located along the scenic cliffs that line the Brisbane River, Howard Smith Wharves is a great example of what is on offer as it is fast becoming the ultimate food and lifestyle precinct. We have plans in play to ensure our delegates get a bit of ‘networking’ time there.”
An exhibitor prospectus will be available early next year, and expressions of interest are welcome at any time by emailing . Delegate registration will commence later in 2023.
