Southport Yacht Club to host new superyacht berthing simulations

The next generation of superyachts of up to 130 metres will be one step closer to berthing at the Southport Yacht Club thanks to advanced simulation technology.

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development Steven Miles opened Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show today and announced the superyacht simulation technology, an approximately $65,485 investment.

“We have contributed $19,000 towards high-tech computer simulations to ensure the safety of large vessels on their way to the new superyacht facility at the Southport Yacht Club.

"These simulations will be a state-of-the-art run-through to show exactly how vessels of up to 130 metres will move through the Southport Spit.

“This follows our initial investment of $2.87 million to develop Australia’s largest superyacht berthing facility on the Gold Coast.

“As the world opens up after COVID-19, we want more superyachts enjoying the Queensland coastline but it is important to ensure the safety of crews and passengers as they pass through our waterways.

“Queensland has had a strong health response, so we’re getting on with our plan for the state’s economic recovery.”

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said Gold Coast City Council was investing $20,000 in the project.

“I’m delighted to see further investment in our emerging superyacht industry.

“The entire east coast offers so much to these high-value visitors so it’s important we do everything we can to promote our port as a must-visit destination.”

Southport Yacht Club (SYC) General Manager Brett James said the club was pleased to partner with the Queensland Government and Gold Coast City Council on securing access to this vital technology.

“Maritime Safety Queensland currently allows berthing of up to an 85-metre vessel, so these simulations will help to determine if the maximum length of vessel that could safely berth at the SYC could be increased to 130 metres,” Mr James said.

Mr Miles said the Queensland Government is also financially contributing to a series of nine videos being developed by Superyacht Australia.

“These videos will put Queensland’s premier sailing destinations and infrastructure hubs on the world stage,” he said.

“Queensland has some of the best coastlines in the world, so it makes sense to broadcast that.”

Mr Miles said it’s been an impressive week for the marine industry on the Gold Coast.

“I was fortunate to also open and attend the Australian Superyacht, Marine Export and Commercial Marine Industry (ASMEX) 2021 conference this week,” he said.

“It’s clear Queensland is leading the nation in tapping into the superyacht sector, which is predicted to expand to $1.1 billion and nearly 8000 jobs by the end of this year.

“Our goal since we announced the five-year Queensland Superyacht Strategy in 2018 has been to position the state as the place to invest in this industry.

“Fast forward to 2021, Queensland’s low rates of COVID-19 has enhanced the state’s global reputation as a safe place to do business.”

Read more about how the Queensland Government is growing the superyacht industry in the Queensland Superyacht Industry Strategy.