Marine Qld industry report

1:26 AM Wed 28 Jan 2009 GMT

'Where else but Queensland? 300+ days of sunshine, incredible islands and coastline infrastructure second to none.' .

The first report commissioned by Marine Queensland into the state's recreational marine industry shows that despite the economy tightening, there are positive indicators for growth of boating throughout the state.

The report is the first of what will be an annual report on the size and performance of the industry in Queensland. It will compare growth with other states as well as take an in-depth look as the various sectors that make up this vibrant industry.

The aim of the report is to provide practical insights into the operation and development of the industry. It is intended that the scope and content of the report will evolve and be refined. In the 2008 Marine Queensland Strategic Plan, the organization sought to signal a number of major shifts in emphasis which will facilitate the achievement of the following visions for the Queensland Leisure Marine Industry, including:

. Enhanced awareness of the economic, social and environmental significance of the leisure marine industry across all levels of government;
. Demand driven product and infrastructure development and investment attraction;
. The industry will take on an increasing leadership role in galvanising the influence of industry across the State.

Key report findings indicate that challenges facing the industry include worldwide economic uncertainty causing low levels of consumer confidence and reduced levels of demand, withdrawal of financiers from floor plan finance, increased instability of the Australian dollar, loss of skilled workers due to economic downturn and infrastructure shortages restricting future growth.

Despite the global economic uncertainty, a number of opportunities have been identified for the industry including a low Australian dollar leading to increased international competitiveness for Australian exporters, industry restructuring and consolidation with a focus on increasing efficiency and developing economic advantage and increasing the 'depth' of the industry capability by commercialising intellectual property into overseas markets thereby creating increased diversity within the States industry base.

As this is the first year it has been commissioned, there may be other facts sought by the industry in future reports. Members are invited to submit suggestions to broaden the scope of the study. It is now available for members and for $300 for non-members.

More information at www.marineqld.com.au

by Jeni Bone

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