Features & Attractions
Recreational Boat Operator Training
Are you new to boating? Get the right start by attending an MSV approved training course at the Boat Show run by the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard.
One of the Coast Guard’s top trainers will deliver sessions on a daily basis between Thursday 9 June to Monday 13 June at the Show.
Deputy Squadron Commodore Barry Cordwell will run sessions every day of the show with registration at 12pm and the course commencing at 1pm.
The course costs $70 plus an additional $20 for anyone wishing to do PWC training as well. Each session comprises three hours of presentations and discussion followed by the test and marking. All proceeds go to the Coast Guard to do its vital voluntary work in helping keep the waterways safe.
Successful participants will receive a DVD of the handbook and an MSV certificate of completion which they can present at any Vic Roads to buy their Recreational Boat Operator License.
People wishing to participate in the session will need to provide proof of identity. In order to undertake recreational boat operator training, you will need to provide proof of identity - either a photo licence or multiple proofs. A photo licence means any Australian photo licence or photo learner permit, which is current or expired by no more than 2 years. Under 16 years of age, primary proof documents will be required including:
- An Australian passport
- A birth certificate
- A student identity card
For further information regtarding proof of identity requirements please contact - 0417 012 661
For show patrons interested in taking the course, visit the Organiser’s Office at the Show to be directed to the training room.
Melbourne Boat Show runs from Thursday 9 June to Monday 13 June at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre. Opening hours are 10am to 9pm daily except Sunday and Monday, when the show closes at 7pm.
Guest Speakers
Rex Hunt Talks Fishing On Friday Night
Special guest and fishing identity Rex Hunt will be dropping by Friday afternoon to check out the show and do a one off presentation on the main stage at 6.00pm. Don’t miss this special appearance from the biggest name in fishing!
Lee Rayner from Adventure Bound Appearing On The Main Stage
Throughout the entire boat show Lee Rayner will be presenting on the main stage covering the biggest topics in fishing right now including squid, tuna and snapper. There will also be plenty of other presentations covering all aspects of boating. The impressive 600 Evolution Extreme ADVENTURE BOUND boat will be situated next to the stage to be used by Lee during his presentations.
Fishing Fever Joins The Boat Show
An exciting addition to this year’s boat show is retail store Fishing Fever. Owner Lee Rayner will be offering quality fishing tackle from the biggest brands including Shimano, Rapala, Harimitsu, Black Bart, Pakula, Berkley Gulp and more! The boys from Adventure Bound will also be appearing on the stand so come and check them out at stand B94!
Gummy Sharks With Charlie Micallef
Charlie Micallef will be launching his new DVD at this year’s boat show and will be talking on the main stage about the many fish he encounters as a fishing guide, one of these great fish is the large female Gummy Shark. He will share with you what it takes catching the big girls. Joining Charlie will be Merv Hughes who has fished with Charlie and rates the Gummy Shark as one of the best fighting species we have in Port Phillip Bay. Charlie will also be joined by many of his fishing friends.
Kids Activities:
Flathead Fred’s Fun Fishin’ Show
The star attraction for kids is back again for another year. Marching, cheering and loving every minute of it, the kids will learn much more than fishing from Fred. They’ll also learn about Fred’s philosophy of good manners and good behaviour, both when fishing and in everything else they do. There are heaps of prizes to be won and parents will get as much fun out of it as the kids do.
Lulu’s Kids’ Activities
Here’s a treat for all mums of young children, if the kids are getting cranky and you need a bit of a break, we have just the answer! In between Flathead Fred’s performances the show provides a professionally staffed play area for kids. With seats for parents to take a load off, Lulu and her team will engage your youngsters in fun activities and games such as indoor fishing, model making and colouring-in.
