Marketing boost for WA boat builders

16/08/06
A new co-operative of Western Australian boat builders has been launched to promote locally built recreational and commercial vessels on the national and international stage.
Science and Innovation Minister Francis Logan launched the Westbuilt Boats co-operative at the Perth International Boat Show today.
"The Westbuilt initiative provides the opportunity for member companies to increase their market competitiveness by collaborating on buying, marketing, exporting and competing for contracts on a national and international basis," Mr Logan said.
"It will also help increase awareness of the great products already being produced by local boat builders.
"WA has an outstanding reputation as a centre of excellence for the construction of fast ferry, patrol boats and larger defence and commercial vessels, but we need to grow our recreational boat building industry as well."
Members of the Boat Industry Association of WA (BIAWA), which also organises the Perth International Boat Show, developed the Westbuilt Boats initiative.
The boat show, which runs from August 16-20, is one of the biggest events on the Perth show calendar and takes up all six halls of the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Mr Logan said most Westbuilt members would be displaying the new Westbuilt logo on their exhibits.
The Minister also announced that the Department of Industry and Resources would sponsor the upcoming WA Marine Industry Awards.
"The awards are a great way to promote WA boat builders, generate a culture of innovation and recognise those individuals who have made a significant contribution to the industry," he said.
The awards began last year to recognise companies that demonstrated a commitment to quality and innovation and the development of world-class skills. This year, a new category for 'WA Boat of the Year' will strengthen the prestige of the awards.
Mr Logan said the State Government continued to invest in infrastructure for the boating industry under the Recreational Boating Facilities Scheme.
In July, another $1.12million was allocated to improve launch and retrieval facilities in 2006-07. Communities around the State are encouraged to apply for the funding through the Department for Planning and Infrastructure.
Minister's office - 9222 8950