Fortunately, incredible progress is happening and if you’re keen to learn about career pathways or recreation in the marine industry and meet exciting changemakers in person, head to the Sydney International Boat Show 1- to 4 August 2024 at Darling Harbour.
There will be stage speakers and panels during these four days, as well as opportunities to check out the vast range of boats.
Lisa Blair is an Australian adventurer who recently set two new World Sailing Speed Records for the fastest time Sydney to Auckland and first woman setting a solo monohull record.
Tracy Souris, Marina Manager of Sydney’s largest Dry Stack Facility and Marina, Sydney Boathouse, also sits on the Boating Industry Association Board and Chairs the Women in Boating Committee, will be at the show.
She says: "This committee was established to promote female involvement in recreational boating and provide career pathways into what has been traditionally a very male-dominated space.
"The key is visibility, seeing women at marinas, on the water, getting involved and having a go. Working towards a value mindset, will see the industry valuing women’s contribution regardless of experience, position or achievement.
"The committee hopes to build better connections between people already in this industry and those keen to get more involved.”
Nic Douglass, ‘Sailor Girl, is a three-time Open World Champion in fleet sailing with two Olympic Grade Ones in Match Racing and feels hopeful women’s participation in the marine industry will improve.
“We had the first female, Elizabeth Hovey, win the America's Cup in 1934. I think if you see it, you can be it. We must have open and inclusive conversations and say – hey come along? Or – have you ever thought about doing this? (sailing or boating in some capacity)," she said.
David Kurczewski from Freedom Boat Club (FBC) is thrilled to see female memberships slowly growing (90,000+ members in 415 locations worldwide including Sydney and 35% are women).
“Women are not just sitting beside their husbands anymore but driving the boats and enjoying the experiences. I think because the process is made so simple, you join through the app and just show up and make memories out on the water. We help with everything from getting a boat licence to training, you don’t even need to clean up!” FBC has a stand at the Sydney International Boat show, so come and have a chat," he said.
Adult tickets to the Sydney International Boat Show are $25 + booking fee (pre-booked early bird till July 17th) or $29.50 + booking fee from July 18th (children under 16 with a paying adult are free) and tickets go on sale on June 5th.
Early bird ticket purchasers also have the chance to go into the draw to win AUD$10,000 in ‘Boat Show Dollars’ to spend with an exhibitor at the Show. Visit: www.sydneyboatshow.com.au
