Boating safety will be a key focus of the 2011 Sydney International Boat Show with NSW Maritime and the Boating Industry Association hosting a Marine Safety Precinct.

NSW Maritime Chief Executive Steve Dunn said the Marine Safety Precinct would have a prime position at the event which is expected to attract more than 75,000 people to the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre & Cockle Bay Marina.

“The safety precinct is the first exhibit visitors see as they enter the show and will cover an area of 400 square metres in Hall 5,” Mr Dunn said.

“It will feature a broad alliance of safety partners and a wealth of safety information and advice presented under the banner of You’re the Skipper – You’re Responsible.”

Safety partners joining NSW Maritime and the BIA at the precinct are:
·Australian Maritime Safety Authority
·Australian Hydrographic Service (RAN)
·Australian Maritime College
·Marine Rescue NSW
·Marine Teachers Association of NSW
·Recreational Fishing Alliance of NSW (Angel Ring Rock Fishing Safety Project)
·Surf Life Saving NSW
·Sydney Heritage Fleet
·TAFE NSW
·Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service
·NSW Police Marine Area Command (on the marina in Cockle Bay)

Mr Dunn said the level of involvement in the Marine Safety Precinct showed the strong commitment to responsible and safe boating practices in NSW.

“This united effort, involving government and non-government organisations, points to the healthy cooperation and partnerships that exist to help ensure our waterways are as safe as possible. Visitors to the Marine Safety Precinct will have an opportunity to speak to representatives and gather expert information from a range of different government agencies, boating organisations and peak bodies.”

The boating industry employs more than 14,000 people in NSW and is worth $2.1 billion annually.

The Sydney International Boat Show accounts for approximately 25 per cent of the industry’s annual turnover and attracts more than 300 exhibitors. The 44th Sydney International Boat Show at Darling Harbour runs from Thursday 28th July to Monday 1st August.

For more details go to http://www.sydneyboatshow.com.au/

Media contact: Penny Robins 0457 756 797