Despite ongoing uncertainty surrounding the global fuel crisis, the Marinas26 International Conference and Trade Exhibition has concluded its strongest edition yet, with a record 385 delegates and a record number of exhibitors converging on the Royal Pines Resort, Gold Coast, 24–26 May 2026.
The biennial event — themed Future Smart — brought together marina owners, operators, developers, suppliers, and industry leaders from across Australia, the Asia Pacific, and internationally. Presentations covered demographic changes, the economic outlook, the health of the industry sector, and the impact of technology on marina operations. MIA President, Andrew Chapman AM CMM, stated, “We are very proud of the continued success of this event and the value it provides the industry.”
Setting the scene for a future-smart industry was the focus for Day 1. After a moving Welcome to Country from Mayor Cr Tom Tate, who highlighted the industry’s value to the region, delegates engaged in a packed day of plenary sessions. Geoff Brailey of McCrindle Research provided insights into the future customers of boating, followed by NAB Senior Economist Taylor Nugent, who discussed economic conditions affecting marina owners and operators.
MIA President Andrew Chapman AM CMM presented highlights from the 2025 Health of the Marina Industry Survey (HAMIS), noting marinas contribute approximately $3.2 billion annually to the Australian economy. MIA CEO Suzanne Davies provided updates on new initiatives planned for 2026-27 and beyond.
The afternoon featured discussions on lessons from redeveloping ageing marina assets, experiences in the Middle East, and marina maintenance. The day concluded with futurist Gihan Perera’s keynote on the future impact of artificial intelligence on marinas and boatyards.
The North Harbour Happy Hour allowed delegates to network over refreshments, with delegate Phil Wardale CMM winning a bottle of 2007 Grange Hermitage.
Day 2 focused on practical insights, innovation, and industry leadership. The day began with a Walk & Talk Club, before delegates enjoyed breakfast on the trade floor. James Tuma of Urbis led a panel discussion on competing interests between marina owners and stakeholders, followed by a session on artificial intelligence applications in marina management.
Risk management insights were provided by MIA’s insurance and legal partners, and David Good of Superyacht Australia discussed growth opportunities in the superyacht industry. The afternoon featured the Innovators & Start Up Showcase, highlighting new solutions for industry challenges, and a panel led by Lorraine Yates CMP examined the future of boatyards. Delegates were also addressed by dual Olympic Gold Medallist and Australian Sailing CEO Malcolm Page OAM.
The Marine Structures Tropical Gala Dinner celebrated industry achievements, including the Innovation Showcase Winner, ReefFloat, for its eco-friendly concrete marina float. Coral Sea Marina received its 5 Gold Anchor platinum Re-Accreditation, while 16 new Certified Marina Managers were presented with certificates and pins.
The conference concluded with the Red Dog Bar After Party, followed by facility Study Tours, featuring tours of superyacht facilities and the best marinas of the Whitsundays cruising grounds. MIA CEO Suzanne Davies expressed her excitement about the successful event and indicated plans for Marinas28 will be shared soon.
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