MIBLS 2009 - a 'buyers show'

11:12 AM Wed 4 Feb 2009 GMT

Many companies that exhibited at the 2009 Melbourne International Boat & Lifestyle Show are still on a high following last weekend's red-hot event.

Bar Crusher Boats director Peter Cleland said that despite the record high temperatures, the show was a 'great event' that attracted plenty of quality visitors.

'The show was packed with people thanks to milder temperatures over weekend and there was a really good vibe around the place,' Mr Cleland said.

'We received 20 good leads from people new to boating and another 20 from hard core fishos who know our product. all in all, we're very optimistic.

'With any boat show, the next one or two months are crucial to convert consumer interest into sales. it was definitely worth attending.'

According to Mr Cleland, visitors flocked to the show from around Victoria and all over the country.

'Bar Crusher received leads and interest from customers from South Australia, Sydney, a few from Brisbane and a heap from Tasmania,' he said.

'There was a real feeling among consumers that they'd had enough of the 'doom and gloom'. people told us that now interest rates were down, they could finance more, including a boat, which is great for us as we're primarily pitching mid-size fishing boats around $50,000 to $60,000.'

Among the on-water exhibitors, R Marine Jacksons VIC principal Stuart Jackson said he was thrilled with the level of interest and genuine leads.

'It was a lot better than I expected in this economic climate. I came here with 12 boats, sold a 33' Riviera and I've taken away a lot of prospects,' Mr Jackson said.

'It's certainly refreshing to have some optimism around us. customers were positive and a lot of exhibitors posted healthy sales.'

Aussie Boat Sales principal Scott O'Hare said he also rated the show extremely highly.

'I'm very happy, it's been a tremendous show. the numbers were terrific over the weekend,' Mr O'Hare said.

'Sales, too, were pleasantly surprising. we sold three Chaparral sportboats, ranging $72,000 to $140,000, and two Bavaria yachts.

'While no contracts were signed on the Maritimo range, the boats attracted incredible interest. we'll have three and possibly six sold as a result of re-establishing relationships with previous leads and putting in a positive show.'

Aussie Boat Sales had assistance from interstate-based Bavaria and Maritimo staff during the show and, according to Mr O'Hare, none of them could believe the solid consumer interest.

'They were amazed at the crowds and the quality of the people,' he said.

'The Melbourne International Boat & Lifestyle Show has definitely made its mark as a 'buyers show'.'