July 13 - Ross Willaton and Luke Durman, racers of the diesel powered Simrad boat, were crowned Australia's Class One Offshore Powerboat Champions on the Gold Coast at the annual offshore powerboat awards presentation night. Media release at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0713e.htm

July 11 - The XLR8 Home Loans Australian Formula 1 Superboat Series moves to Port Macquarie on the mid north coast of New South Wales where round 5 will be conducted over the weekend of 15- 16 July. Media release at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0711c.htm

Jul 9 - Acme Fibreglass Supplies Australian Offshore Powerboat Series - A powerful display of offshore racing by father-son duo, Bill and Tom Barry-Cotter this afternoon saw the Maritimo team take out round six of the offshore powerboat series on the Gold Coast. Media release at  http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0705l.htm

July 5 - Scientist calls for ban on two-strokes after research finds underwater pollutants could be cut by up to 1000 per cent by switching from two to four-stroke outboard engines. Media release at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0705i.htm

July 5 - Bermagui pro fisherman Dominic Puglisi has re-powered his fishing trawler with a Yanmar 6KYM series engine and slashed more than $45,000 from his annual fuel bill. Media release at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0705j.htm

July 5 - Maritimo has improved boat production systems to allow a complete 15.75m (51ft) boat to come off the line every 10 days. From Brian Harrower
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July 2 - Simrad pairing Ross Willaton and Luke Durman have taken out line honours at round five of the Australian Offshore Powerboat Series this afternoon in Mooloolaba. Today's win sees Simrad take an un-assailable series lead into round six on the Gold Coast next weekend, sewing up the 2006 championship with only one round remaining. Media release at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0702b.htm

June 29 - The ACME Fibreglass Supplies Australian Offshore Powerboat Series will roar into Mooloolaba this weekend for round five of this year's series. Reaching speeds in excess of 200km/h, the million dollar Class One boats will be out in force on Sunday 2 July in a last ditch effort to challenge for the title next weekend at the final round on the Gold Coast. Media release at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0629a.htm

June 20 - Brisbane based F1 driver Bob Trask unveiled his latest race boat at Newcastle, the fourth round of the Australian F1 Superboat series. Trask is pleased with the speed and handling of the new ‘fourth generation’ hull but trim pump problems plagued the boat during competition. This new boat will be campaigned in Australia for the remainder of the local 2006 series and then taken overseas for the 2007 UIM F1 World series. Media release at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0620.htm

June 19 - In recent years the boating market, particularly the family segment has developed a fondness for the Bowrider design. It’s no longer considered a style just for the water sports market; it’s a versatile boat that caters for a very broad range of buyers. Quicksilver releases the 5350 Bowrider Deluxe, a multi-purpose family Bowrider accommodating up to 6 people. Media release at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0619b.htm

June 19 - 2006 Club Marine Melbourne Boat Show, July 6 - 10 at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre - The biggest boat on display will be the luxurious Sea Ray 44 Sundancer. Media release by Sea Ray at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0619a.htm

June 16 - Dreamboats & Workboats – the Halvorsen Story. A new exhibition at the Australian National Maritime Museum from July 1 will celebrate the lives and work of the renowned Halvorsen boatbuilding family. There’s an interactive screen ‘Find a Halvo!’ and a specially designed booth where visitors can record memories of their Halvorsen holidays. Media release at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0616.htm

June 14 - The world's first research measuring outboard engine emissions in fresh and salt water has found underwater pollutants could be cut by up to 1000 per cent by switching from two to four-stroke engines. Dr Richard Brown of Queensland University of Technology's School of Engineering Systems found that two-stroke engines produced up to 10 times more water pollution than four-stroke. Media release at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0614b.htm

June 11 - Honda Marine introduces a five-year domestic warranty, available for a limited period across its extensive outboard range. A 12 month warranty remains for commercial applications. Media release at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0611c.htm

June 11 - Yamaha WaveRunner announce a $1000 factory cashback for a limited time on the Yamaha XLT1200 and pocket rocket XL700 WaveRunners. Media release at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0611d.htm

June 8 - A Yamaha WaveRunner competed in the popular offshore fishing tournament at the recent Toyota Fraser Island Fishing Expo. Drawing attention from all over the expo, the Yamaha WaveRunner was enlisted to help build a bridge between the PWC community and those in the fishing fraternity with previous negative PWC experience. Media release at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0608b.htm

June 6 - Bob Trask placed sixth racing his Australian designed and built F1 powerboat in the world F1 tour at the Portugal Grand Prix. In spite of qualifying a little way down the field in 13th position (the race attracted 27 starters) Trask not only worked his way to the front of the pack, but finished just 20 seconds and on the same lap as race winner Guido Capellini. Media release at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0606b.htm

June 4 - U.I.M. Class 1 World Powerboat Championship - Spirit of Norway's Bjorn Gjelsten and Steve Curtis win the Spanish Grand Prix in Garrucha. In front of his home crowd, Spaniard, Domenico Cirilli and Italy's Giampaolo Montavoci in Foresti&Suardi-Roscioli Hotels finished second. Media release by Nigel Quilter at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0604.htm

June 4 - Mercury Marine’s Verado supercharged outboards have proven their outstanding reliability and durability notching up over 2600 hours in less than 12 months on water taxis operated by island resort Couran Cove in Queensland. Media release at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0604c.htm

June 1 - The ACME Fibreglass Supplies Australian Offshore Powerboats will arrive at the Southport Yacht Club on July 8 in preparation for the final round of this year’s series. Fifteen boats are expected to hold practice and testing on Saturday July 8 with the boats fiercely battling it out for points on Sunday July 9. Media release at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0601c.htm

May 31 - When purchasing a new Yamaha four-stroke outboard (F50-F250), customers have the opportunity to purchase a pre-paid fixed price 3 Year Yamaha Extended Service Protection (Yamaha E.S.P) program. Media release at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0531f.htm

May 31 - At the Melbourne Boat Show 2006 Mercury Marine will launch their brand new 75, 90 and 115 FourStroke Outboards. Media release and compare specifications at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0531i.htm

May 31 - CruiseCraft’s highly acclaimed Explorer 625 has taken home the title of Modern Boating Fishing Boat of the Year for 2006. Media release at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0531e.htm

May 30 - The best and the worst boats at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat show and more at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0526a.htm

May 29 - It is only a matter of time until United States or European style emission regulations for outboard engines are introduced in Australia, according to Honda Marine Manager, Tim Davies. Currently there are no emission controls on the sale of outboard motors in Australia. Media release at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0529g.htm

May 29 - Quicksilver Inflatable Boats have added the new super lightweight Dynamic 260 to their Dynamic range of inflatable boats. The 260 Quicksilver Dynamic is ideal for first-time boaters and as a tender for yachts. Davit lifting points allow easy launching and handling and conveniently located lifting handles allow the boat to be carried with ease. Media release at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0529e.htm

May 26 - The 100ft Cambria II is the second custom motor yacht of this size to be constructed at Azzura Marine’s facilities on Queensland’s Gold Coast. Her retro style was inspired by the owner’s previous landmark rebuild project of the 1928 Fife K-Class yacht, Cambria. More at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0526.htm

May 20 - The inaugural Australian Superyacht Industry Awards were presented by Super Yacht Base Australia at a black-tie event at the Hyatt Regency Sanctuary Cove. The award for Recognition of Excellence in the Construction of a New Superyacht went to ‘White Rabbit’ by North West Bays Ships. Media release at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0520.htm

May 19 - Another strong contingent of craft was this year evaluated for the 2006 Australian Marine Awards which are held annually by the Australian Marine Industries Federation (AMIF). The overall Australian Boat of the Year for 2006 was found in the Cruiser Non-Trailerable category, the Noosa Cat Australia 4100 GT Series. Media release at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0519.htm

May 16 - The Dent to Dunk Cruising Race & Rally for sailing yachts, multihulls and motor cruisers will be conducted from May 20 - 30. The Coral Coast nine day rally begins May 21 and the race and passage rally start May 27. This year the finish will be at Cardwell's Port Hinchinbrook due to Dunk Island resort being refurbished. http://www.apyc.yachting.org.au

May 15 - King Cats is releasing a new flybridge power catamaran at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show on May 18 – 21. The King Cat 38’s semi-displacement hull offers fuel economy and features three large berths in a variety of configurations – one includes an ensuite. Technical specifications include overall length 11.5m, beam 5.3m, draft .75m, fuel capacity 1200L, water capacity 700L. http://www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au

May 9 - Acme Fibreglass Powerboat Series - Round four will be held on Botany Bay on May 13 - 14. http://www.aopc.com.au/

May 8 -  Due to the high number of new boat sales, Webbe Marine's Sydney yard is full of quality trade-ins that must be cleared out to make way for new Sydney boat show stock. Media release at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0508.htm

May 8 - The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show on May 18 – 21 marks the world release of the Maritimo 48. Bill Barry-Cotter has devoted countless hours in the creation of the vessel, believing the company has produced a craft offering performance and luxury at a previously unmatched price. The Maritimo 48 offers a 15.75m length (50ft 10in) with a spacious 5.18m (17ft) beam. It carries 3500L of fuel and 600L of fresh water. http://www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au

May 7 - Spectacular scenes at round three of the ACME Fibreglass Supplies Australian Offshore Powerboat Series have seen ACME Racing brothers Steve and Andrew Searle flip their Class One vessel while leading the Class One field during lap three of the Newcastle Challenge. Father son combination Bill and Tom Barry-Cotter recorded a landmark victory in what was Tom’s first ever race in an offshore powerboat. Media release at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0507d.htm

May 7 - Mercury MerCruiser has launched a new sterndrive Re-Power program. If you want the latest technology, fuel-efficient engine in your boat you can upgrade with a monthly payment plan. For the first time customers will receive a guaranteed minimum trade-in of $2300 for old engines and a bonus $500 Installation Voucher for those choosing to Re-Power while this program is running. Media release at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0507a.htm

May 3 - Qatar 95's Abdullah Al Sulaiti and Lino Di Biase celebrated their first win together in Class l, leading home a Team Qatar one - two in the Middle East Grand Prix with Sheikh Hassan Bin Jabor Al Thani and Matteo Nicolini in Qatar 96 finishing second. Media release by Nigel Quilter at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0503b.htm

May 1 - Eastern Engine Pty Ltd is launching the Volvo Penta Inboard Propulsion System (IPS) Joystick Docking System in Australia at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show on May 18 – 21. The IPS system revolutionized boat life with its double forward-facing propellers and steerable drive units. The joystick docking system makes manoeuvring and docking easier and safer. http://www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au

April 29 - UIM Class 1 World Powerboat Championship - Spirit of Norway's Bjorn Rune Gjelsten and Steve Curtis win the Qatar Grand Prix in Doha ahead of their main rivals Victory 77 and Qatar 96. Media release by Nigel Quilter at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0424e.htm

April 26 - A new deal will see Honda Marine’s advanced four stroke engines power the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard's entire outboard-powered boat fleet. Media release by Malcolm Wilson at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0426e.htm

April 24 - Vision Yachts is launching a 19m luxury power catamaran on the world market at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show on May 18 – 21. Designed by Scott Jutson, the model is the first for the luxury pleasure market by the Mackay based manufacturer. The company has 30 years experience in commercial vessel manufacturer, specializing in fishing trawlers. http://www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au

April 24 - Brisbane-based marine retailer Wynnum Marine has been appointed a fully authorised agent for the range of Quicksilver inflatable boats. Quicksilver offers a range of models from small two metre tenders to 5.3 metre ocean going dive boats.

April 15 - Gold Coast family-owned boat building company Pegiva Pty Ltd will launch worldwide its 2006 model, Retro-Sun Super Squalo Convertible at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show on May 18 – 21. The convertible motor launch has mahogany inlaid decks and a sun-lounge recessed over the engine bay area. The vessel, designed for inland waterways, reaches speeds of 45 knots. http://www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au

April 12 - Craig Bailey made a clean sweep of round three of the XLR8 Home Loans Australian F1 Superboat Series held at Hobart. There was plenty of action with very tricky weather conditions plaguing the weekend. Media release at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0412h.htm

April 11 - The Dent to Dunk Race and Coral Coast Rally are still on in May but the finish will be at Cardwell's Port Hinchinbrook. Cyclone Larry caused damage to Dunk Island, (the Beach Bar is gone) and the resort has closed for repairs and refurbishment until sometime in June. The Coral Coast Rally is not limited to sailing boats. A couple of powerboats have entered, for the navigation trial as well as the social side of things. Media release at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0411.htm

April 7 - Lightwave is releasing the 46ft Powercat at Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show on May 18 – 21. It follows the design concept of the 40ft, delivering excellent fuel efficiencies at good cruising speeds. Fitted with twin 160hp Volvo diesel motors with shaft drives, it includes a master stateroom with walk in robe, guest cabin with ensuite and a double cabin. http://www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au

April 7 - Mercury Marine Consumer Accessories Brochure features the latest products from Quicksilver, Bermuda Fishing Essentials, Igloo eskies and MotorGuide Electric trolling motors and is available from your nearest Mercury Marine dealer.

April 6 - The Brisbane based F1 race team, Trask Development Corporation/Sea Quest has been forced to sit out the Hobart round of the Australian Superboat F1 series. The logistics of getting drivers and crew from Hobart to the opening round of the UIM F1 World Series in Qatar in time for boat set up and practice by Wednesday is  impossible. Media release at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0406.htm

April 5 - Boab Boat Hire is franchising Australia wide their self drive trailered boats suitable for skiing, fishing or family fun. The business, the first allowed to hire self drive boats in NSW open waters, currently has boats available from Wollongong and Jervis Bay. Boab Boat Hire provides training and marketing to franchisees and assists with liaising with government bodies to obtain licences. Large centre cabs, medium size bowriders and estuary / river boats are available. Ph: 0421-919-305 or visit http://www.boabboathire.com.au

April 3 - Next stop Hobart for Round Three of the Wrest Point Formula 1 Superboat Grand Prix and it promises to be a Derwent River Rumble as teams vie for the all important championship points over the weekend of 8 – 9 April. The pace was a cracker at Toukley and the wider expanses of the Derwent River could see 5 to 6 boats abreast as they attack the course which is situated a stones through from the Hobart CBD. Media release at http://www.boatingoz.com.au/news06/0403f.htm

April 3 - Southbeach, a new Australian made 6.6m multi-purpose fiberglass family day boat will be launched at Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show on May 18 - 21. Southbeach combines the practicality and versatility of a pontoon boat with the seaworthiness and high speed performance of a small fisherman. It caters for all aspects of family boating including wakeboarding, waterskiing or as a general runabout. http://www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au

April 2 - A new inflatable Zodiac, donated to Sailability Pittwater by Sydney Powerboat Centre, has been officially launched. It is powered by a 4 HP Mercury motor donated by Enterprise Marine. The safety and support craft is named the “John L Gordon”, in honour of  volunteer, coach and safety boat man, who has been involved with Sailability since it’s inception 10 years ago.

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