February 1st, 2011

Catching a glimpse into the lifestyles of the rich and famous will be easy at the 2011 Melbourne International Boat & Lifestyle Festival (MIBLF), however organisers of the event say those who will get the most out of the spectacle will be family members of all ages.

“What is so exciting about the Festival is not only the variety of activities taking place, but also the accessibility and affordability of the various boat packages available for purchase,” said Clyde Batty, General Manager, Boating Industry Association of Victoria (BIAV).

The Festival, which is scheduled for February 4 – 6 at Melbourne’s burgeoning Docklands precinct, will take place in an economic and environmental climate that has seen a large number of individuals and families return to, or take up, marine recreation for the first time.

“One need only take a leisurely drive up to Lake Eildon at Bonnie Doon, for instance, to see how many people are out enjoying the water again,” Mr Batty observed. “Being able to take the kids fishing, waterskiing or simply go for a cruise are some of the most rewarding activities a family can do together and the set up costs are not as prohibitive as many might think.”

“The MIBL Festival ties in nicely with the fact that there are so many different ways in which people can spend their time on the water, whether that be at Victoria’s many lakes, out Port Phillip Bay or on the open ocean.”

“We’re very proud to be consistently backing an event that showcases everything from trailable boats and Personal Watercraft, to marina yachts and fishing vessels.”

According to Mr Batty, being a boat owner these days is not related to whether or not someone is a member of the upper echelons of society, however purveyors of the more elite side of the industry won’t be disappointed with a number of multi-million dollar boats slated for display.

“Perhaps in certain parts of the world, it’s all about how much a person’s vessel is worth but in Australia and particularly Victoria, the focus is on function, and involving friends and family.”

In line with the family theme, Marine Safety Victoria who are a major sponsor of the festival, will also play a big part in the proceedings including putting on regular safety demonstrations. Children will also have the opportunity to participate in “Come & Try” sessions on the water.

The Festival is celebrating it’s 15th year of operation, and in addition to boat dealer exhibitors and related marine and lifestyle products, will feature something to tempt everyone’s taste buds including the Bream Fishing Classic-a catch, release and weigh in competition, a new stage dedicated to all things fishing, the Yamaha Supertank Fishing Show, delectable food and wine and regular entertainment on the main stage.

Many show activities are free to the public whilst access to the boats on the marina is ticketed. Tickets can be purchased online at www.biavic.com.au/miblf/tickets or from the ticket box located at the marina entry at NewQuay.