HomeInternational NewsBoating Festivals & EventsAustralian Boat Industry Association revamps Sydney's boat show scene with two dynamic new events

Australian Boat Industry Association revamps Sydney’s boat show scene with two dynamic new events

The Boating Industry Association (BIA) is set to reshape Australia’s boat show scene from 2025 with two innovative new event formats designed to better meet industry needs, reflect global trends, and enhance public engagement.

BIA President Adam Smith has announced a major new boat show and festival at Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park, running from 14–17 August 2025. This event will showcase paddle, power, and sail boats up to 10 metres, alongside cutting-edge marine technology, accessories, and the ever-popular boat-based fishing sector.

“Sydney Olympic Park offers world-class exhibition facilities, excellent public transport links, ample parking, and the ability to expand outdoors,” said Smith. “It’s the perfect location for a premier boating event, right in the geographic heart of Sydney, home to more than six million people. This venue increases accessibility and creates more opportunities for exhibitors to connect with passionate boaters and those eager to get out on the water.”

The event will take place in The Dome and adjacent Exhibition Halls at Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park. A virtual tour of the venue is available here.

New Sydney boat show to be held at the Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park / Credit: Australian BIA

In another major change, the Sydney International Boat Show will move to November, taking full advantage of Sydney’s spectacular spring weather. The event will transition away from traditional indoor exhibition spaces, fully activating the harbourside precinct to create an immersive outdoor experience. It will focus on larger in-water power and sail craft (10m to 30m+), delivering a dynamic showcase for visitors and exhibitors alike.

- Advertisement, article continues below -

“Moving the Sydney International Boat Show to November allows us to capitalise on the city’s ideal spring conditions—longer, warmer days and perfect boating weather,” Smith explained. “By shifting away from conventional indoor halls and embracing the harbourside setting, we’re offering a more natural, engaging way for people to connect with the boating lifestyle—right on the water.”

“These changes reflect the evolving needs of both the industry and boating enthusiasts,” Smith added. “With two distinct event formats, we’re making boating more accessible and exciting for everyone.”

The BIA has confirmed its successful partnership with event delivery partner Mulpha Events will continue, ensuring a seamless transition to the new formats and a world-class experience for exhibitors and visitors.

“We are excited to continue working with the BIA to deliver these exceptional events,” said Corey Rattray-Wood, Head of Events at Mulpha Events. “Our aim is to create inspiring experiences that connect people with the boating lifestyle.”

- Advertisement, article continues below -

Further details, including exhibitor application information, will be released in the coming weeks.

Share this
World Boating Day // Super Yacht Life
Boating Festivals & Events

World Boating Day 2026 on track for record number of global events celebrating life on the water

World Boating Day (WBD) returns this May with an expanded global programme designed to open up boating to everyone, from curi...
Read more
Boatbuilders & Manufacturers

Excess introduces “3000 MILES”, a documentary about Transatlantic preparations

Excess
Excess, a leading brand in the world of catamarans, announces the launch of 3000 MILES, a new documentary that delves into th...
Read more
Boat Tech

Raymarine brings innovation to the Sydney International Boat Show

The 2025 Sydney International Boat Show promises four days of on-water innovation at Darling Harbour, where Raymarine will ta...
Read more

Comments

This conversation is moderated by Boating New Zealand. Subscribe to view comments and join the conversation. Choose your plan →

This conversation is moderated by Boating New Zealand.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

Kirsten Thomas
Kirsten Thomas
Kirsten enjoys sailing and is a passionate writer based in coastal New Zealand. Combining her two passions, she crafts vivid narratives and insightful articles about sailing adventures, sharing her experiences and knowledge with fellow enthusiasts.

Recent articles