WATERLINEJuly 2025 WATERLINE July 2025 Marina Planning Design & Construction Emergency Response 2025 Marina of the Year Awards
CONTENTS 4 CEO REPORT 5 MARINA OF THE YEAR AWARDS 13 NEW SPONSOR 14 INDUSTRY ACCREDITATIONS 15 GOLD ANCHOR 17 CLEAN MARINA 18 MARINE SUSTAINABILITY PLEDGE 19 FEATURE MARINA PLANNING, DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION 25 MARINAS26 26 MEMBERS 29 FEATURE EMERGENCY RESPONSE 32 INSURANCE 33 LEGAL LINES 34 MARINA TRAINING INSTITUTE 37 CERTIFIED MEMBERS 42 INDUSTRY NEWS 43 INDUSTRY MOVES 44 NEW MEMBERS 5 WATERLINE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Suzanne Davies ceo@marinas.net.au OPERATIONS MANAGER Chris Stone manager@marinas.net.au ADMINISTRATION & COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR Silvia Jura admin@marinas.net.au INDUSTRY TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR Lily Peel education@marinas.net.au WATERLINE EDITOR Suzanne Davies WATERLINE COORDINATOR Kellie McMillan waterline@marinas.net.au DESIGN & PRINTING Worldwide Printing St Leonards Ph: 02 9460 6767 | stleonards@worldwide.com.au COVER IMAGE Dubai Harbour Marina PLATINUM SPONSOR ADDRESS Suite 202, 349 Pacific Highway, North Sydney NSW 2060 POSTAL PO Box 724 Crows Nest NSW 1585 P + 61 2 9439 5806 E info@marinas.net.au W marinas.net.au The Waterline Magazine is distributed both in print and digitally. Each issue is published to marinas.net.au and promoted on Facebook, Twitter and Linkedin. DISCLAIMER This publication has been provided by the MIA for the personal benefit of its members to whom it is addressed. Whilst all due care has been taken with respect to its preparation and publication, MIA makes no representation or warranty to any person in relation to the accuracy of the within material. Members are urged to take their own advice in relation to their respective business needs and decisions and not rely on the contents of this publication. 37 15
July 2025 WATERLINE | 3 1300 128 164 | info@marinestructures.com.au www.marinestructures.com.au Australia’s Market Leader in Marine Infrastructure and Berthing Systems AUSTRALIA’S MARINE INFRASTRUCTURE POWERHOUSE Russell Island Ferry Terminal
4 | WATERLINE July 2025 CEO UPDATE July 2025 Quarters 2 & 3 are busy operational periods at the MIA and are when most of our training and educational activities take place. Our Industry Training & Development Coordinator Lily Peel has been busy preparing and co-ordinating the 25 training and educational events that will take place across the year. So far this year, Lily has run Intermediate Marina Management (IMM) courses in Dubai and Phuket. In between times she will have run a Marinas 101 in Sydney, an Oil Spill Response course, an Emergency Preparedness course, three Straddle Carrier Operations courses in Brisbane, Perth and Melbourne, delivered three webinars, organised a Certified Members Meeting and registered dozens for our online courses. In Q3 she will start to co-ordinate contributors to assist in putting together a new Negative Forklift Operations course which we hope to have completed by the end of the year. We continue to host our regional member meetings across the Asia-Pacific to provide members an update on the support initiatives available to them and provide opportunity to network and share local issues with one another. To date this year, over 170 members have attended six meetings in Perth, online for our international members, Melbourne, Lake Macquarie/Newcastle, the Northern Beaches, and Singapore. Thanks to all who took the time to join us and especially to those who hosted us at their marinas and provided a site tour of their facilities. In April Chris Stone & I attended the Southeast Asian Yachting Conference followed by the Singapore Yachting Festival. Hosted by ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove, Singapore, the events were a great success, and we connected with many of our members, and met several developers of new facilities in the region who are very keen to become involved and leverage the support the MIA can provide. Read more about the event on page 26. Saving the best ‘til last, the second quarter highlight was without doubt the 2025 Nautilus Marine Insurance Marina of the Year Awards held at Middle Harbour Skiff Club on Tuesday 6 May. Congratulations to all who entered. As many have commented, the process of preparing the submission provides a great opportunity to examine your business, celebrate what you do well and reveal improvement opportunities. Congratulations to all the winners. Read more about it on page 5. It was great to present two new award categories this year ‘Woman of the Year’ and ‘Emerging Talent’. Congratulations to Stephanie Trounce, WHS & Property Compliance Manager Gold Coast City Marina and Shipyard, and Jacob Morris, Director Marine Structures for taking out the respective awards. I also acknowledge our first entry from the USA, Brunswick Landing. I was on leave in Florida in May and took the opportunity to pop by the marina to meet owner Michael Torres and have a look at his wonderful marina. See more on page 15. Marinas26 Registrations opened on 25 May marking one year before we open the conference at the Royal Pines Resort on the Gold Coast and registrations came in thick and fast. With exhibition space over 80% sold, we are expecting a new delegate attendance record. A word of advice, if you wish to stay at the resort during the conference, book your room now! We have great rates that you can take advantage of during the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show and we are looking for a sponsor to facilitate a shuttle bus to take delegates to and from the show Friday – Sunday. Call me if you are interested in getting involved as most of the conference sponsorship offerings are now sold. Read more on page 25. MIA members will have received a request to complete our biennial Member Satisfaction Survey. Please take time to complete it as it helps us to learn more about how we can support your business. We received lots of great feedback on our ‘new look and feel’ Waterline last quarter and I hope you enjoy this issue also. Andrew Chapman AM CMM, President of the Marina Industries Association (MIA) has been appointed as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the King’s Birthday Honours in recognition for his service to youth, and the marina industries. Having served as a Director of the MIA since 2005 when it was a volunteer association without staff, Andrew’s contributions in supporting and professionalising what is now a $2.4B industry, have been significant. His leadership and contributions have delivered a thriving international industry body which supports and represents the interests of over 340 corporate members, including 291 marina and boatyard businesses in Australia, which are responsible for the employment of over 21,000 Australians. He ensured the industry had specialised training available, was supported with quality assurance and environmental accreditation programs and that research was undertaken to quantify the industry’s economic contribution. When asked about receiving this recognition Andrew said, “I was very surprised, and humbled with news of the award but immensely proud of what I have been part of over the many years of my involvement in the industry and the MIA.” Suzanne Davies MIA CEO commented, “Andrew's leadership, unwavering commitment, time and the gracious sharing of his knowledge, over two decades has benefited so many professionals in our industry today and has directly resulted in the expanded reach and scope of the Association which benefits the entire industry. His contributions to our industry’s success should not be underestimated.” Industry veteran, Jeff d’Albora established the industry association in the early 2000s and brought Andrew on in the early days to help. Jeff commented, “During the past 20 years Andrew has worked tirelessly as a Director of the MIA and has strongly supported the development and advancement of education in the industry. It’s great to see his years of dedication have been recognised and rewarded.” Taking reins from d’Albora on his retirement, Andrew has held the offices of Chairman and President of the MIA for the last 15 years. As is the case for all MIA directors, this a voluntary role that receives no bursary and is completely self-funded. He has delivered hundreds of lectures at MIA management courses and has been responsible for writing much of the training material. Along with Jeff d’Albora, he was integral in establishing the partnership with British Marine to form the Global Marina Institute under which it delivers the Intermediate and Advanced Marina Management training courses and accredits Certified Marina Managers (CMMs). Over 500 industry professionals have been accredited as CMMs globally and many have benefited from the training and their credentials and are now working all around the world. KING’S BIRTHDAY HONOURS FOR MIA PRESIDENT ANDREW CHAPMAN AM CMM
July 2025 WATERLINE | 5 The 2025 Nautilus Marine Insurance Marina of the Year Awards took place at Sydney’s picturesque Middle Harbour Skiff Club on 6 May and with some exceptional entries, the event didn’t just celebrate winners but recognised the significant achievements of all entrants. Opening the evening, Marina Industries Association (MIA) President and Master of Ceremonies Andrew Chapman AM CMM, remarked, “This is another incredibly successful celebration of our industry. The Awards attracted record entries across several categories, with over 110 guests and finalists gathering from across Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, the UAE, and Singapore.” While the Awards have traditionally focused on facilities, 2025 saw the introduction of two new categories designed to spotlight and promote the achievements of individual contributions and rising talent. The inaugural Emerging Talent Award was created to celebrate the outstanding achievement, dedication and contribution of young professionals under 35 who are shaping the future of the marina industry. With a strong field of candidates, this year's three finalists exemplify the drive, skill and passion defining the next generation of industry leaders: Scott Cotton CMM, Jacob Morris and Jarvis Binkin. Scott Cotton CMM, now Marina Manager at Sydney Wharf Marina and Jones Bay Superyacht Marina, began his career through school-based work experience before moving through roles as a rigger and dockhand. His commitment to professional development has seen him become one of the youngest Certified Marina Managers. Jarvis Binkin, Marina Manager at Shellharbour Marina, also brings a rich industry background. After finishing his apprenticeship as a Marine Diesel Fitter with Riviera, Jarvis has moved on from dockmaster roles to lead operations and playing a critical part in the development of new technology and software shaping future marinas. Jacob Morris, this year’s Emerging Talent Award winner, has carved a multifaceted path at Marine Structures, moving from hands-on work in piling and logistics to strategic leadership. His blend of innovation, operational excellence and forward-thinking approach makes him a standout representative of emerging talent within the industry. Congratulations to Jacob and all the finalists who are already leaving a lasting mark on the future of marinas. NAUTILUS MARINE INSURANCE MARINA OF THE YEAR AWARDS “These Awards honour all entrants and finalists who consistently raise the bar and set new standards in our industry. While outstanding facilities are important, it’s the people who deliver the excellence we celebrate tonight.” Andrew Mulholland, Marketing Director / Commercial Partnerships Manager Nautilus Marine Insurance. Jarvis Binkin, Jacob Morris, Scott Cotton CMM RECOGNISING INDUSTRY EXCELLENCE, ENVIRONMENT AND INNOVATION
6 | WATERLINE July 2025 The second new award introduced for 2025, the Industry Woman of the Year Award, made an exceptional debut, attracting a strong and diverse field of nominations from across the marina sector. While women currently comprise only 20– 30% of the industry’s workforce—often in administrative or support roles—this award cast a spotlight on those leading in frontline operations, shipyard management, construction, compliance, and executive positions. The calibre of nominees reflected the industry’s evolving landscape and the growing presence of women shaping its future. This important award recognises outstanding achievement, perseverance, leadership, and contribution by women who are actively transforming the marina industry into a more inclusive and progressive environment. The six finalists in the award’s inaugural year were each leaders in their own right: Mintira Sawangphong, Operations Supervisor at Ocean Marina Jomtien; Stephanie Trounce, WHS Property and Compliance Manager at Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard; Kate Purdie CMP, CEO of Coral Sea Marina Resort; Nicky Vaux, Partner and Business Development Manager at Empire Marinas Group; Angela Melville, Service Manager at White Bay 6 Marine Park; and Woranart Wongwanich, Marina Director at Royal Phuket Marina. Mintira “Min” Sawangphong received a Highly Commended honour for her remarkable 33-year contribution to Ocean Marina Jomtien, where she plays a pivotal role in daily operations and liaising with Thai government authorities. The winner of the 2025 Industry Woman of the Year Award, Stephanie Trounce, was recognised for her outstanding leadership in safety and compliance at one of Australia’s busiest marine facilities. Her ability to apply high-level WHS knowledge to the complex demands of a shipyard environment has set a new benchmark for operational excellence. It was a standout night for Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard (GCCM), which claimed the Marina of the Year Award (over 140 boats), Boatyard of the Year (over 20 boats) and Dry Stack Facility Award. Celebrating 25 years of trailblazing excellence, GCCM has transformed former farming paddocks into a world-class marina and shipyard, playing a pivotal role in the development of the Coomera marine precinct. The marina boasts 200 berths, a 300-vessel dry stack and a shipyard incorporating 50,000 sqm of hardstand, multiple vessels lifting options up to 300 tonne, sandblasting bays, keel pits and undercover sheds. Underscoring its commitment to sustainability and service, the marina is Gold Anchor, Superyacht Ready and Clean Marina accredited and delivers premium customer amenities. Owner Trent Gay, said “While my family had built the business from the ground up following the purchase of the site in 1996, the award is important recognition of our team, who continue to deliver for customers day in, day out.” The flagship Marina of the Year categories were more competitive than ever. With two strong, yet vastly different finalists, including 2023 winner, Marina Mirage. The recently redeveloped Jones Bay Superyacht Marina in Pyrmont, Sydney, emerged victorious as the Marina of the Year under 140 boats. Managed by Scope Marine’s Nairn Johnson CMM and Scott Cotton CMM, the new state of the art facility accommodates vessels ranging from 20 to over 100 metres, offering advanced features such as 500-amp shore power and innovative in-berth black water pump-out—hallmarks of a truly world-class superyacht destination. MARINA OF THE YEAR AWARDS Stephanie Trounce, Angela Melville, Mintira Sawangphong, Kate Purdie, Nicky Vaux Trent Gay and the GCCM team Bruce Birtwistle CMP, General Manager Bellingham Marine with Nairn Johnson CMM
July 2025 WATERLINE | 7 The Industry Innovation of the Year Award recognises innovations that result in breakthrough improvements for the industry or its suppliers and included three noteworthy finalists; Marine Structures for their 600mm Aluminium Horn Bollard with a working load limit exceeding 10 tonnes; the Searial Cleaners for InvisiBubble, a low energy pollution management system; and Bellingham Marine taking home the award for its reimagined Unifloat system. With an investment that exceeded $500,000 in design, engineering, product development, laboratory and field testing, rod threading automation, molds and patents, the reimagined system now encompasses non-ferrous components to minimise maintenance and extend design life. MARINA OF THE YEAR AWARDS For the second time in a row, the highly competitive Club of the Year award was taken out by The Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron (RQYS). Not only one of the largest marinas in the country, RQYS boasts an incredible honour board of Olympic and World Champion sailors. Accepting the honour, Marina Manager Glenn Scott expressed his enthusiasm: “We are very proud of this award, especially when we are so aware of the other great clubs that we were up against. We see so much more opportunity and growth ahead. It's wonderful to experience the camaraderie and mutual respect in our industry tonight.” Glenn Scott Sue Bowes Andrew Chapman AM CMM, Bruce Birtwistle CMP and Andrew Mullholland With the final award separated by only a few points, Sandringham Yacht Club were recognised with Highly Commended following on from an eight year, $6million refurbishment. Past Commodore and now Marina Manager Sue Bowes proudly accepted the award.
8 | WATERLINE July 2025 The Boatyard of the Year Under 20 boats category was hotly contested and one of the closest competitions we have ever seen in this category. Boatyard by d’Albora The Spit and Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club Boatyard were strong competitors for the winner White Bay 6 Marine Park. Industry veteran Lorraine Yates CMP reflected on the honour, "We’re grateful for industry recognition through awards like these. We have a beautiful facility in a stunning location, and I’m privileged that the owners trust us to manage it every day.” Joe Schreiner, Operations Manager Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club Boatyard and his team were recognised with Highly Commended. MARINA OF THE YEAR AWARDS Luke Mackenroth, Lorraine Yates CMP and Andrew Mullholland Joe Schreiner, Amarah Raad, Hiran Goonawardena, Kylie Brown CMM As we have seen in the past, the International Marina of the Year Award has had one of the biggest entry lists and this year was no different. The judging was hard and with five very worthy finalists, the award went to first-time entrant Dubai Harbour Marina narrowly beating Westhaven Marina in Auckland, by only a couple of points. Dubai Harbour Marinas General Manager, Wayne Shepherd CMM, was at the awards to receive his trophy and made a point of recognising the investment of his owners and went on to name each member of his leadership team and said, “This award is theirs and I look forward to presenting it to them on Thursday when I am back at the marina”. Gareth Wilson CMM, Marina Manager Westhaven Marina said “We are very proud of what we have achieved. Having recently reaccredited up from a 4 Gold Anchor to a 5 Gold Anchor marina and now recognised by receiving Highly Commended”. Wayne Shepherd CMM Gareth Wilson CMM
July 2025 WATERLINE | 9 The MIA Environmental Award recognises an outstanding new product, process or service initiative that yields positive environmental outcomes and was highly contested with three finalists announced including, Jones Bay Superyacht Marina for becoming a key partner in the world’s first Smarter Cities Cleaner Oceans program led by Australian clean-tech company ‘Seabin’ and implementing 24/7 marine waste collection; ONE°15 Marina, Sentosa Cove for their broader strategy to transition from diesel powered to electric workboats and Royal Phuket Marina - Asia’s first and only carbonneutral marina—took the top honours for its all-round commitment to sustainability. Marina Manager, Balan Aramagan was on hand to accept the award and noted how proud he and the team are of their achievements. As a leader in sustainable practices, RPM was also the first marina to sign the MIA Sustainability Pledge. ONE°15 Marina, Sentosa Cove were awarded Highly Commended for their initiative. MARINA OF THE YEAR AWARDS The Boathouse Marina, in Western Australia who recently celebrated their ten-year anniversary received a Highly Commended in the Dry Stack Storage category, recognised for its fully enclosed facility and featuring the world’s only two Wiggins Marina FLX machines. Luke Sier, Russ Higginson Andrew Mullholland with Balan Aramagan Andrew Chapman AM CMM, Nick McLaughlin, Andrew Mulholland, James Roy CMM
10 | WATERLINE July 2025 MARINA OF THE YEAR AWARDS HALL OF FAME The awards concluded with one of the industry's highest honours—the induction of two outstanding facilities into the Marina of the Year Awards Hall of Fame. ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove Singapore was recognised for its ongoing excellence and leadership on the global stage. Having twice been named International Marina of the Year, ONE°15 Marina becomes the first Asian marina to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, marking a significant milestone for the region. Located just one degree and 15 minutes from the equator, ONE°15 is an iconic yachting destination in Asia. The marina offers 272 wet berths (including 32 superyacht berths) and 60 dry berths, and holds several prestigious accreditations, including 5 Gold Anchor Platinum, Superyacht Ready, and Clean Marina and Fish Friendly certifications. James Roy CMM, Senior Marina Director, and Nick McLaughlin, General Manager, accepted the Hall of Fame Award on behalf of ONE°15 Marina. “As the first Asian marina to receive this prestigious accolade, this milestone is a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainability in the global marina industry”, said Roy. “This recognition belongs to our dedicated team, members, and valued partners. Thank you for being part of our journey and helping shape ONE°15 Marina into the world-class waterfront destination it is today.” “Peer recognition in our industry means the world to us. To be named a winner among such respected and talented operators across the region is a true honour.” Sydney Harbour Boat Storage (SHBS) at White Bay 6 Marine Park was also inducted into the Hall of Fame, following consecutive wins in the Dry Stack Storage Facility of the Year category. Under the leadership of Lorraine Yates CMP, General Manager White Bay 6 Marine Park, SHBS has grown into a state-of-the-art boating hub, offering a 145-boat dry stack, a 13-bay boatyard with a 63-tonne lift, dry sail hardstand storage and comprehensive on-site marine services. The facility is proudly Gold Anchor and Clean Marina accredited. In accepting the awards, Yates said, “What makes White Bay 6 truly special is our positive site culture and our unwavering commitment to excellence. This award belongs to our dedicated, hardworking staff whose professionalism and passion make our operation what it is. Winning the Marina of the Year Award is a powerful validation of that dedication—and a reward we’re incredibly proud of.” These Hall of Fame inductions highlight the exceptional standards upheld by both ONE°15 Marina and Sydney Harbour Boat Storage. Their commitment to innovation, sustainability, and service excellence continues to raise the bar and shape the future of the global marina industry. Lorraine Yates CMP (centre) and the White Bay 6 team Nick McLaughlin, James Roy CMM
July 2025 WATERLINE | 11 MARINA OF THE YEAR AWARDS Midway through the evening, a special presentation was made to Ocean Marina Jomtien, Thailand, which was recently accredited as a 5 Gold Anchor Platinum Marina and Superyacht Ready. To celebrate the marina’s achievement and to recognise nine team members who have completed 30 years of service, 13 members of the Ocean Marina team came out for the awards and proudly joined Scott Finsten CMM, Marina Manager, on stage to receive the 5 Gold Anchor Platinum & Superyacht Ready flag. Suzanne Davies, MIA CEO, commented, “The pride on that stage was overwhelming and quite emotional. The marina team worked so hard to achieve the accreditation, and it was lovely to see them all here to celebrate.” Industries Association SPONSORS & PARTNERS PLATINUM SPONSOR GOLD SPONSOR SILVER SPONSORS BRONZE SPONSORS INSURANCE PARTNER CLEAN-TECH PARTNER CLOTHING PARTNER LEGAL PARTNER These are the businesses providing support and commitment to the industry through their sponsorship of the MIA. We ask that you consider their products and services when contemplating your next purchase. Scott Finsten CMM, back centre with the Ocean Marina Jomtien team
12 | WATERLINE July 2025 MARINA OF THE YEAR AWARDS AWARD WINNERS 2025 Delivering Fresh Ideas Creative Designs and Genuine Solutions for Marinas Docks and Moorings www.marinaquip.com BEST COMMERCIAL MARINA (OVER 140 BOATS) Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard (GCCM), QLD BEST COMMERCIAL MARINA (UNDER 140 BOATS) Jones Bay Superyacht Marina, NSW CLUB OF THE YEAR Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron, QLD INTERNATIONAL MARINA OF THE YEAR Dubai Harbour Marina, UAE DRY STACK STORAGE FACILITY OF THE YEAR Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard, QLD BEST BOAT YARD (UNDER 20 BOATS) White Bay 6 Marine Park, NSW BEST BOAT YARD (OVER 20 BOATS) Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard, QLD EMERGING TALENT OF THE YEAR Jacob Morris, QLD INDUSTRY WOMEN OF THE YEAR Stephanie Trounce, QLD MIA ENVIRONMENTAL AWARD Royal Phuket Marina, Thailand INDUSTRY INNOVATION AWARD Bellingham Marine, QLD HALL OF FAME INTERNATIONAL MARINA ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove, Singapore HALL OF FAME DRY STACK STORAGE FACILITY Sydney Harbour Boat Storage
July 2025 WATERLINE | 13 NEW SPONSOR THE MARINA INDUSTRY’S LATEST SUPPORT PARTNER Butchart Marine Services has announced its continued commitment to marina industries in the Asia-Pacific region with its investment in Bronze Sponsorship of the Marina Industries Association (MIA). Based in Sydney, Butchart Marine Services provides high quality and innovative solutions to boat hoisting, transportation and storage for marinas, boat yards, hardstands and boat builders across Australia, New Zealand, the Pacific and Asia with marketing leading, internationally recognised and trusted brands including Roodberg Boat Handling equipment, Multi-Mover, Capria and Brownell Boat Stands. All products distributed by Butchart Marine Services are designed to maximise safety and efficiency in marina operations and include hydraulic and electric hoisting and transportation systems, electric hand operated trailer tugs, rated safe boat standing equipment and semi-automated electric dry stack boat storage solutions. Managing Director Greg Butchart said, “I believe it is really important to support a vibrant, safe and sustainable industry. The MIA does a great job in supporting industry, particularly through their training programs and best practice guidance. We want to see that continue and feel this is a great way for us to contribute and give back to industry”. The latest delivery for Butchart Marine Services was a 40T Roodberg hydraulic slipway trailer to Phuket Boat Lagoon in April, two more 40t trailers to the Royal Papua Yacht Club in PNG and Rebak Island Marina in Malaysia and a 47t hydraulic trailer is in build for Fiji and two x 20t custom trailers for Singapore. Suzanne Davies, MIA CEO said, “Greg is a great supporter of industry and the MIA. He has an intimate knowledge of all marinas throughout the Asia-Pacific region, especially if they have a boat yard, and has a great understanding of how he can help improve their operational efficiency. We are very grateful that Butchart Marine Services is investing in industry sponsorship again”. Becoming an industry sponsor is a great way for suppliers to remain ‘top of mind’ as it provides high exposure in this growing industry. A recent MIA Member survey reported that nearly 70 per cent of members actively consider MIA sponsors when making purchasing and acquisition decisions in recognition of supplier industry support. Details of all MIA sponsors and partners can be found on the MIA website. For a sponsorship prospectus, contact Suzanne Davies at ceo@marinas.net.au +61 (0) 438 548 163 www.butchartmarineservices.com.au greg@butchartmarineservices.com.au QUALITY MARINE SERVICES High quality and innovative solutions to boat hoisting, transportation, storage and marina facilities. Australia’s No.1 Boat Stands
14 | WATERLINE July 2025 INDUSTRY ACCREDITATION & OPERATIONAL PREPAREDNESS The Marina Industries Association (MIA) provides independently audited accreditation programs, certifications and industry training that help marinas assess the effectiveness of their planning, procedures and facilities and their preparedness and ability to manage an incident. The Gold Anchor and Clean Marina accreditation programs provide marina businesses with a set of articulated standards and best practices to implement across their operations and provides an independent assessment of their compliance with those standards. Gold Anchor is a globally recognised program with the objective of setting and raising industry standards. The program assists marinas to position and differentiate themselves in the marketplace and provides performance benchmarking that contributes to continual business improvement. While customer service and facilities are an important part of the accreditation, so too are the marina’s policies and procedures framework, its emergency response equipment, and its environmental management practices. Clean Marina is a global program designed to eliminate pollution, protect and enhance waterways, improve air quality and create sustainable marina businesses. The accreditation process provides robust best management practices that help to deliver environmental compliance and meet community expectations. It leads operations through an easy-to-follow process which assesses over 60 criteria across the marina’s operation including compliance, facility management, emergency preparedness and boat education. Fish Friendly is an add-on accreditation available to marinas that provide beneficial fish habitats. Unless staff are trained in their use, best practice procedures, processes and response protocols are of no use. The MIA, through its Marina Training Institute (MTI), offers a suite of training courses that provide staff with compliance information and basic best practice guidelines and responses through accessible and affordable online training courses. Information is contextualised to marina settings and is brought to life through real case studies and in some cases during virtual sessions with industry experts. These courses include: 1. Environmental Best Practices 2. Marina Work Health & Safety Best Practices 3. Extreme Weather Preparedness 4. Oil Spill Response 5. Emergency Preparedness Training provides staff with confidence in how to do their job in a compliant, safe and efficient way and prepares them to identify potential problems and manage incidents and is a critical part of any risk management strategy. In addition to the above courses, the MTI offers technical courses such as Straddle Carrier Operations and Management Courses. As a foundation partner of the Global Marina Institute (GMI), the MIA delivers specialised marina management courses – there are two levels, intermediate and advanced. Both are intensive fiveday residential courses that focus on in-depth management and leadership issues such as facility operations, marina design and development and profit maximisation. Successful completion of the management courses, along with at least five years of industry experience, qualifies marina professionals to apply for Certified Membership. Certified Marina Managers are highly regarded, well-trained, experienced marina managers. There are over 400 active CMM's worldwide, accredited through the Global Marina Institute (GMI) which is an educational partnership between the British Marine (BM) and MIA. The certification is also delivered in the USA by the Association of Marina Industries. All Certified Members are required to complete a minimum of 30 hours of professional development per year to retain their active status. A marina’s voluntary participation in accreditation programs, certification and training provides an insight into a marina’s condition, management practices and its attitude towards environmental and operational compliance and risk management. Insurers are increasingly looking to these programs to help them assess a site’s risk profile, believing they give an insight into management’s approach. Lyndon Turner CEO Nautilus Marine Insurance (NMI) said, “when assessing the risk of a site, we look at the condition of the facility and importantly the plans, systems and processes that the site has in place. We are very pleased when we see that a marina has a rated Gold Anchor or Clean Marina accreditation because it gives us an insight into the culture of the management. Any management team that submits itself to a voluntary, independent assessment of its facilities against such criteria gives us a positive sense of the culture of the site management.” Industry accreditations serve as a mark of quality management and compliance. They are a sign that the facility believes standards are important and that in turn generates trust and credibility. The requirement to re-accredit or engage in professional development ensures continuous improvement remains a priority. If you’d like to know more about industry accreditation and certifications and how they can help your business, the team at the MIA is here to help you. The benefits of an independent operational assessment are invaluable to all stakeholders including marina managers, owners, investors, insurers and landlords, giving them confidence in the effectiveness of management and the marina’s risk profile. INDUSTRY ACCREDITATIONS
July 2025 WATERLINE | 15 GOLD ANCHOR LANTAU YACHT CLUB SETS NEW STANDARD IN HONG KONG Lantau Yacht Club (LYC), nestled on the scenic shores of Lantau Island in Hong Kong, has solidified its position as one of Asia’s premier marinas with the achievement of two of the industry’s most respected accreditations, 5 Gold Anchor Platinum and Superyacht Ready. This prestigious dual recognition places LYC in elite company, showcasing its world-class standards in marina operations, infrastructure, and guest services. The 5 Gold Anchor Platinum designation represents the pinnacle of the internationally recognised Global Gold Anchor Scheme, which evaluates marinas on over 90 rigorous criteria—including service quality, environmental responsibility, safety, and amenities. Only the very best marinas worldwide meet the standards required for this top-tier accolade. Building on its original 5 Gold Anchors rating in 2021, LYC’s elevation to Platinum reflects its unwavering commitment to excellence and continuous investment in cutting-edge facilities. Franklin Mak, Executive Vice President of Hospitality at HKR International Limited, noted, “This dual accreditation represents our relentless pursuit of perfection. We are proud to be Hong Kong’s first 5 Gold Anchor Platinum Marina, with facilities and services that connect yachting enthusiasts across the region.” Complementing this achievement, LYC has also earned Superyacht Ready status—granted to marinas equipped to accommodate vessels over 24 metres. LYC is currently the first and only marina in Hong Kong to receive both designations, underscoring its capability to welcome the most sophisticated superyachts in Asia. Purpose-built to international standards, the marina features 148 berths for vessels from 10 to 60 metres, including capacity for yachts up to 100 metres. The site offers a fully typhoon-sheltered harbour, modern utilities, and 24/7 security, ensuring a safe and seamless berthing experience. Beyond infrastructure, LYC offers a rich lifestyle experience. The Clubhouse features Caffè Napoli, a private dining room, entertainment spaces, and outdoor event areas like The Lawn and BBQ zone. Members also benefit from access to premium sister facilities under Auberge Hospitality, including Discovery Bay Golf Club and the Auberge Discovery Bay Hong Kong hotel. MIA President Andrew Chapman AM CMM praised the club, stating, “This is an impressive marina that incorporates a full-service resort, amazing leisure facilities, and some of the best food and beverage in Hong Kong. There are not too many facilities in Asia that can do it as well as Lantau Yacht Club.” With these latest accolades, LYC is not only redefining luxury yachting in Hong Kong but also setting a new benchmark across the Asia-Pacific region. HIGHLY COMMENDED FOR USA by Suzanne Davies, CEO MIA Brunswick Landing Marina was the first ever Nautilus Marine Insurance Marina of the Year Award entry from the USA, their submission earning them a ‘Highly Commended’ award. I was on leave in the US in May to visit family in Jacksonville, FL so took the opportunity to drive an hour north into Georgia to have a look at this great marine facility and received the warm southern welcome that the marina is renowned for from Michael Torras, Marina Manager and Daren Pietsch, President. This award winning, Gold Anchor Marina is located in historic Downtown Brunswick where southern charm meets college town contemporary. This is way more than a place to park a boat, Brunswick Landing Marina has a strong community of boaters who enjoy the marina’s facilities, and all say there is no better place to live, work, shop and play. The marina offers guests and crew a full home port solution in one of the most sought-after cruising destinations in the US. Accommodating over 445 vessels on its marina and hardstand, with deep water access and its mega-yacht berth, the marina can accommodate vessels up to 80 metres! All vessels have access to an extensive range of services and amenities including fuel, boatyard and maintenance facilities, grey and black water disposal, concierge services, high speed internet connection, BBQ facilities, kids’ playground, dog exercise area, extensive parking and an incredible range of social activities including themed events, yoga classes and arts and crafts days. It is always so valuable to get around and see marinas in other parts of the world, you can learn so much in such a short period of time. A huge thank you to Michael, his team and all who welcomed me to this vibrant and well-loved marina. If you are in Florida, or Georgia, make time to visit Brunswick Landing. Daren Pietsch, Suzanne Davies, Michael Torras
16 | WATERLINE July 2025 WYNDHAM HARBOUR MARINA A 5 GOLD ANCHOR DESTINATION ON PORT PHILLIP BAY Just 30 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD, Wyndham Harbour Marina stands as the premier boating destination along the northwestern shores of Port Phillip Bay. As the only safe harbour between Williamstown and Geelong, it offers boaters, sailors, and fishing enthusiasts a strategic and picturesque gateway to the bay’s waters. Developed in the early 2000s and officially completed in 2015, Wyndham Harbour was designed as a transformative waterfront community. Today, it features 150 berths for vessels ranging from 10 to 20 meters, with ambitious plans to expand to 1,000 berths—solidifying its place among Australia’s largest marinas. Boaters enjoy state-of-the-art facilities, including: a 24/7 fuel dock, secure trailer boat storage, a maintenance yard capable of hauling vessels up to 10 tonnes, a private boat ramp for exclusive use and there is even an 18-hole minigolf course. Wyndham Harbour’s commitment to excellence has been recognised with the prestigious 5 Gold Anchor accreditation, a testament to its worldclass customer service, top-tier facilities, and sustainable environmental practices. This achievement also highlights the leadership of Allan Cayzer CMM, the marina’s highly respected Marina Manager. With 62 years of industry experience, Cayzer has played a pivotal role in shaping Wyndham Harbour into a benchmark for operational and service excellence. Congratulations to Wyndham Harbour Marina—a true jewel of Port Phillip Bay and a destination worthy of its 5 Gold Anchor status. GOLD ANCHOR Fully customisable hardware to maximise your capabilities
July 2025 WATERLINE | 17 Ocean Marina Jomtien (OMJ), Southeast Asia’s largest and most established marina, has reached a new milestone in its journey toward sustainability, achieving both Clean Marina and Fish Friendly Marina accreditation. These prestigious certifications, awarded by the Marina Industries Association (MIA), recognise the marina’s steadfast commitment to protecting the marine environment while delivering world-class boating and tourism services. Located on Thailand’s Gulf Coast near Pattaya, OMJ features more than 450 berths for vessels up to 75 metres, and offers an extensive range of resort, maintenance, and recreational facilities. These new environmental accreditations add to its impressive credentials, including 5 Gold Anchor Platinum and Superyacht Ready status, affirming its position as a leader in service, infrastructure and environmental stewardship. From its inception over 35 years ago, OMJ has been guided by a vision that paired world-class marina development with a deep respect for the marine environment. Its founder, Mr. Kris Assakul, envisioned the area as a future leisure destination worth preserving. At the time, boating in Thailand faced significant hurdles—limited infrastructure, a lack of local boating culture, and import duties of up to 300% on vessels. Yet, OMJ was established as a five-star facility with a strong foundation in sustainable values. As the marina expanded in 2010 and underwent rejuvenation in 2012, 2014, and 2018, those values evolved into more structured and proactive environmental practices. Seeking Clean Marina and Fish Friendly accreditation was a natural next step in aligning the marina’s operations with international best practices and sustainability goals. The MIA’s Clean Marina Program provides a comprehensive framework for marina operators to minimise their environmental footprint. It focuses on key areas such as waste and stormwater management, spill prevention, washdown procedures, and staff training. The Fish Friendly component recognises additional initiatives that support the health of local marine ecosystems and sustainable fishing practices. OMJ excelled across all criteria, thanks to robust environmental initiatives including upgraded waste disposal systems, strengthened water quality monitoring, refined spill response procedures, and enhanced emergency preparedness through regular training and drills. For the marina’s long-serving team, these efforts reflect a deep, shared commitment to preserving the waters they work in every day. OMJ was formally presented with its 5 Gold Anchor Platinum, Superyacht Ready, Clean Marina, and Fish Friendly Marina accreditations at the 2025 Nautilus Marine Insurance Marina of the Year Awards in Sydney in May. Marina Supervisor Min Sawangphong was also acknowledged, receiving a Highly Commended award in the Woman of the Year category—highlighting the leadership and dedication that continue to drive the marina forward. For Marina Manager Scott Finsten CMM, and his team, the Clean Marina and Fish Friendly certifications are more than symbolic— they reinforce operational excellence, strengthen risk management, and build customer trust. Importantly, they demonstrate that sustainable practices can go hand in hand with growth, innovation, and high-quality service. OMJ is a leading example in the Asia-Pacific region, showing how long-term vision and a strong environmental ethic can build both a world-class destination and a legacy of sustainable marina management. These latest accreditations reflect values that have guided the marina since its inception and continue to shape its future. OCEAN MARINA JOMTIEN EARNS CLEAN MARINA AND FISH FRIENDLY ACCREDITATION, STRENGTHENING ITS LEGACY OF ENVIRONMENTAL LEADERSHIP CLEAN MARINA TEN TIPS FOR A FISH FRIENDLY MARINA Marinas are more than just boating hubs—they’re custodians of our aquatic environments. By embracing fish friendly practices, marina operators can play a significant role in preserving marine biodiversity, supporting healthy fish and maintaining clean, thriving waterways that underpin the success of marina businesses and leave the marine environment in an even healthier position ready for future generations to enjoy. Recognising the importance of environmental stewardship, the Marina Industries Association (MIA), in partnership with the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) developed the Fish Friendly Marina program well over a decade ago. The program was built on the foundation of the internationally recognised Clean Marina Program and is an add on accreditation to Clean Marina which offers a practical, step-by-step framework to help marina operators protect and enhance critical fish habitats by improving their surrounding conditions and providing them protective shelters. Here are ten tips for making your marina fish friendly and lead the way in supporting a healthier marine environment: 1. Make Your Infrastructure Fish Friendly Structures like pontoons, pylons, and breakwalls can provide valuable habitats. Use fish friendly designs for new builds, retrofit existing structures to improve habitat value, and install environmentally friendly moorings to avoid damaging seagrass beds. 2. Understand Your Local Fish and Habitats Different species rely on various habitats to complete their life cycles. Learn about the local fish in your area, especially threatened or unique species, and get involved in habitat restoration efforts within or near your marina. 3. Keep Invasive Species Out Marine pests pose serious threats to native species. Maintain clean hulls and internal boat systems, educate customers and staff, and promote reporting of suspicious species to local authorities. 4. Manage Stormwater Runoff Hard surfaces increase runoff, degrading water quality. Install and maintain first flush systems, collect rainwater, and preserve natural ground areas like lawns and gardens to slow and filter runoff before it reaches the water. 5. Control Waste and Pollutants From hydrocarbons to heavy metals, waste can harm fish. Ensure hardstands and slipways are bunded and drained properly, promote the use of eco-friendly products, and provide pump-out facilities for bilge and sewage waste. 6. Minimise Chemical and Fuel Risks Spills and fire-related pollution are harmful and unsightly. Use spill-prevention devices at fuel docks, clearly display emergency procedures, and keep spill kits readily available. 7. Protect Sensitive Habitats Seagrass, mangroves, and saltmarsh are vital fish nurseries. Use mesh decking to reduce shading, route boat traffic away from vulnerable areas, and consider retrofitting seawalls to create fish habitat. 8. Educate Your Customers Visitors love seeing fish. Provide information about local species, display signage with sustainable fishing rules, and share what you’re doing to protect the marine environment. 9. Discourage Wildlife Feeding Feeding fish or birds can lead to poor nutrition, aggression, and disease spread. Ask customers not to feed wildlife, prohibit fish waste disposal into the marina, and direct users to proper waste facilities. 10. Promote Your Efforts Let your customers and the community know you’re fish friendly. Use signage, brochures, and guided tours to showcase your environmental initiatives—and encourage boaters to do their part. The MIA’s dedicated industry website, marinas.net.au, provides all the information, tools, and accreditation support needed to implement fish friendly practices. Whether you're just beginning your sustainability journey or pursuing best-practice certification, the site serves as a comprehensive resource hub for marina operators in Australia and internationally. Adopting fish friendly practices not only benefits the environment but also strengthens business reputation and helps safeguard the future of our waterways. Congratulations to the following marinas for their re-accreditation and fantastic results: • Royal Phuket Marina, Thailand – Clean Marina & Fish Friendly • Marina at Keppel Bay, Singapore – Clean Marina & Fish Friendly • Port Coogee Marina, WA – Clean Marina & Fish Friendly
18 | WATERLINE July 2025 MARINE SUSTAINABILITY PLEDGE Signing the Marina Industries Association’s 2025 Marine Sustainability Pledge is an important first step in committing to responsible environmental practices - but it’s only the beginning of a longer, more meaningful journey. For marina and shipyard businesses, the next phase involves embedding sustainability into everyday operations, long-term planning, and the core culture of the business. One of the most valuable early actions is conducting an environmental audit to identify areas for improvement. From energy consumption to waste management, understanding your current environmental footprint allows you to make informed decisions. Exploring renewable energy sources, reviewing providers, investigating government incentives like solar rebates, and analysing energy use patterns can all feed into a plan for improved energy efficiency. These practical steps reduce emissions, lower operational costs, and lay the foundation for long-term sustainable practice. Water quality is another critical focus area. Implementing bestpractice washdown facilities, using biodegradable cleaning agents, and installing filtration systems to prevent runoff pollution are essential. Facilities can also harness rainwater by harvesting it from roofs and storing it in tanks for reuse in bathrooms, laundries, gardens, and washdown bays - reducing water costs while preserving a precious resource. Engaging staff, tenants, and customers in the sustainability journey is equally important. Sustainability training, clear signage, and involvement in initiatives like Clean Marina and Fish Friendly accreditation help build awareness and accountability. Collaborating with local environmental organisations through clean-up events, biodiversity projects, and educational campaigns fosters community connection and stewardship. Waste reduction should extend beyond recycling. Broader recycling stations, oil and battery disposal, composting, and moving beyond banning single-use plastics toward an overall reduction of plastic use make a tangible difference. Internally, digital transformation - such as paperless bookings, billing, and communication - can enhance both sustainability and operational efficiency. The Pledge is a declaration of intent. What comes next must be a sustained commitment to continuous improvement, innovation, and collaboration. As more businesses take action, the cumulative impact grows - ensuring a healthier future for our coastlines, oceans, and the marine industry itself. After signing the Marine Sustainability Pledge, your commitment to environmental responsibility becomes part of a growing industry movement. To support your efforts, we invite all pledge signatories to a dedicated forum on Thursday, 6 November at 2:00 pm AEDT. This session will provide an opportunity to share your progress, discuss any sustainability initiatives you’ve implemented, and connect with other like-minded operators. It’s a valuable platform to exchange ideas, highlight achievements, and seek guidance on best practices. For further details about the Marine Sustainability Pledge and its guiding principles, visit marinas.net.au or contact Chris Stone, MIA Operations Manager on manager@marinas.net.au CHARTING THE NEXT STEPS ADVANCING SUSTAINABILITY AFTER SIGNING THE MARINE SUSTAINABILITY PLEDGE Marine Sustainability Pledge Online Forum Let’s work together for a cleaner, greener future. MARINA INDUSTRIES ASSOCIATION Thursday, 6 November, 2pm AEDT Be part of a growing movement driving positive change in the marina industry. By signing the Marine Sustainability Pledge, you’re invited to connect with others at this dedicated forum. Share your progress, showcase sustainability initiatives, exchange ideas, and gain valuable insights from those on the same journey. Not signed up yet? Sign the Pledge and join the forum: marina.net.au
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