Plans have just been publicly released for an 865sqm, multistorey waterfront Marine Innovation Hub at Seal Superyachts Australia’s partner, Gold Coast City Marina and Shipyard (GCCM), adjacent to the main administration building. Considered to be the first of its kind in Australia, the Marine Innovation Hub is purposefully designed for start-ups, operators and suppliers to focus on industry challenges, build solutions, and contribute skills to the improvement and evolution of the industry. Complimentary space will also be available for specialist brokerage and management companies.
The innovation hub is just the latest initiative in a 20-year long strategy by the iconic marine facility to be the innovators and attract the best talent the industry has to offer. This strategy was conceived with the design and construction of GCCM’s 17-hectare refit and repair facility. Like the GCCM Marine Innovation Hub, it was the first time such a client-focused cluster of a full range of marine trades and services had ever been seen in the Australian industry. Whilst many smaller scale yards have since imitated the model GCCM has become the international benchmark and still maintains its position today as the largest facility of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere and the most awarded in Australia.
“The Marine Innovation Hub is about growing the future stars of the Australian marine industry. A significant amount of the new building has already been taken yet we are holding space specifically for the Innovators. We are looking for the right mix of specialist brokerages and management along with newcomers who we think have what it takes to make it to the top of their game. We want bold ideas to be positioned here at GCCM, alongside world-class craftsmen and professionals. It gives the next generation the opportunity to collaborate and learn from the forefathers of the industry while taking us forward,” explained GCCM CEO, Mr. Trenton Gay.
The GCCM Marine Innovation Hub challenges the industry and its participants to disrupt the traditional techniques and modus operandi of servicing boats and yachts. It aims to produce world-leading outcomes that benefit the boat and yacht Owner; develop skills, employment and entrepreneurial opportunities in the local community; position GCCM at the peak of the industry; and promote globally the ingenuity at the heart of the Australian marine industry.
“I would like to congratulate the team at GCCM for this ground-breaking investment. Innovation is key to Australia’s continued economic growth and leading position in the global marketplace. We are a country of forward-thinkers and innovators with an entrepreneurial spirit. This industry-led initiative only further demonstrates these traits,” said the Honorable Stuart Robert, Member for Fadden.
Since opening in 2000, GCCM has brought to the marine community a number of innovative services and events including: –
- -the first freehold marina berths in Queensland
- the Australian Superyacht Rendezvous
- the largest solar-powered marine facility in the world
- the Gold Coast International Boat Show & Marine EXPO
- the introduction of multiple large-scale superyacht refit sheds
- the first purpose built KEEL PIT for deep draft sailing vessel refit in Australia
- best practice water and liquid waste recycling facilities
- dedicated onsite recycling yard
- Australia’s first superyacht work basin
- the development of Queensland TAFE Marine Centre for skills development
“Of course, we consistently upgrade and create new facilities, however more than anything our aim is to create the right team, the right culture and the most efficient processes to get boats back on the water faster and for longer than any other facility. The Gold Coast City Marina and Shipyard that you see today was realised by people who wanted and could envisage betterment for all vessel operators – regardless of whether they were local or travelling from the other side of an ocean or whether they had a 10-foot ‘tinnie’ or a 200-foot superyacht. It is in our DNA to keep improving, expanding and attracting the best of the best in the marine industry to achieve this goal,” said Gay.
Aside from the Marine Innovation Hub, GCCM is working on future expansion proposals including the development of GCCM Stage 2 on an adjacent 20-hectare piece of land on Beattie Road.
GCCM welcomes proposals from those with bold new ideas to be incubated in the Marine Innovation Hub which should be directed to steve@gccm.com.au
For further information please contact Rebecca Gay 0419 670 218 or bec@ggc.net.au
Footnote:
Contact Seal Superyachts Australia for detailed information about cruising around Australia, superyacht charter regulations and about how we can support your visit.
Principle agent Andrew Chapman is proud to have worked with many of the World’s largest Superyachts and has extensive knowledge of Australia and the surrounding area.
Andrew Chapman
Phone: +61 402 484 888
Email: australia@seal-superyachts.com