Best Of Boats

Newcastle Herald

Thursday September 25, 2003

THE Hunter and Central Coast regions have one of the highest ratios of boat ownership, per capita, in Australia, but there has never been an annual boat show to really match that status.

Local dealers have organised past events through their association and, by their own admission, the members are not exhibition experts.

This year the Boating Industry Association (BIA) of NSW has taken over the helm for the first time and The Herald has proudly come aboard as sponsor.

The Herald Boat Show will be held at the Newcastle Entertainment Centre, Broadmeadow, from tomorrow until Sunday.

BIA marketing and events manager Domenic Genua has high hopes for the new display.

"We believe it has the potential to be the fourth largest show in Australia," Mr Genua said.

"Sydney, Melbourne and Sanctuary Cove are the big three but Newcastle could move ahead of Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth.

"This year's show is already a sell-out. In fact, we're turning away exhibitors"

It has been tagged "The best of boating from Newcastle and the Central Coast" and, true to name, will have a broad cross section of recreational boats and products. There will be no sail exhibits this year, the site lending itself more to trailable powerboats.

With fishing being hugely popular, a star attraction will be Brian Anson-Smith and his Supertank. This is arguably Australia's biggest fish bowl, measuring 12.5 metres x 2.5 metres and containing 14,000 litres of water.

The glass-sided tank is filled with barramundi and Mr Anson-Smith is able to demonstrate how the fish react to different lures and techniques.

His fishing sessions last for about 30 minutes and are free.

The show venue is within easy walking distance of Broadmeadow railway station and car parking is free.

Entry costs $10 for adults, $5 for children (under-5 free), and $25 for a family pass (2 adults and up to 3 children). Show hours are tomorrow 12.30pm to 5.30pm, Saturday 9.30am to 5.30pm and Sunday 9.30am to 5.30pm.