Recognising the marine industry’s potential for generating employment opportunities and the resulting benefits to the regional economy, in May 2001 the Gold Coast City Council sought expressions of interest from companies interested in establishing a forum for development and promotion of the local marine industry.

A meeting of forum members on November19, 2001 agreed to establish an association to represent members’ interests to be known as the Gold Coast Marine Industry Association. Under the guidance of its Inaugural President, Charles Dickson this association was incorporated on February 1, 2002.

In December 2007, members voted to merge the operations of the GCMIA with those of the State’s controlling body, Marine Queensland and thus to become a part of the overarching national body, the Australian Marine Industry Federation (AMIF). This move facilitated closer liaison between all sectors of the marine industry as well as stakeholders in relevant State and Federal governments.

Marine Gold Coast became an effective entity from July 1, 2008 at which time Charles Dickson was appointed Divisional Manager.

Today, Marine Gold Coast boasts over 150 active members representing a broad cross section of both large and small companies in the region’s marine industry.

To establish, encourage and maintain the highest professional standards across all sectors of the leisure marine industry.

To promote the region’s boat manufacturing/building industry for the mutual benefit of all participants.

To encourage the industry’s growth through collective promotion targeting national and international markets.

To facilitate a forum through which issues of local, state or national concerns, interests and difficulties can be considered and addressed.

To represent the industry and present a united front to all levels of government.

To facilitate industry training and through continuing education programs to provide clearly defined career path development opportunities.

To encourage the sharing and exchange of information technology and work practices between members, specialists and suppliers.

To develop best practices for industry including management, environmental and workplace safety.

To develop information recources for the use and benefit of members.

To maintain a database of members, their products and services to facilitate dissemination of appropriate information to consumers and associated industries for their mutual benefit.

To advise and assist any Government or Authority, Trade Association, club or voluntary organisation in respect of matters relating to the leisure marine industry.

This rapidly developing precinct coverers over 200 acres of land adjacent to the Coomera River, accommodates some of the world’s leading boat builders and boasts some of the southern hemisphere’s best haulout and servicing facilities.

Gold Coast boat builders range from highly specialised boutique companies building hand-crafted timber boats to companies designing and building some of the world’s most desirable superyachts. Between these extremities the local industry manufactures a wide range of craft including inflatables, lightweight alloy and fibreglass runabouts, luxury flybridge and express cruisers, cruising catamarans and high performance racing yachts.

Naturally, these companies are supported by an extensive supply chain manufacturing and supplying stainless steel and alloy componentry, electronic equipment, marine upholstery, chandlery, engines and a comprehensive range of marine servicing facilities.