The Boating Industry Association Ltd (BIA) hosted a Diversity in Boating event last night in Sydney as part of its ongoing commitment to promote inclusion across the sector.
BIA CEO Andrew Scott said, “Diversity in the boating industry and in boating participation is important. Last night was the beginning of what we see as a commitment to support industry events to enable community, communication and collaboration.”
“Boating is an activity which is available to people from all walks of life, abilities, genders and backgrounds, and that is something we want to champion.”
Andrew Scott made a special thank you to the presenters last night who were Nicole Watts, Director, NSW Maritime, and Nicky Vaux, Business Development Manager and Partner of Empire Marinas Group (and known as The Boat Princess), who gave insights into diversity within their respective fields in the maritime regulator and industry. He also thanked Jess Gatt, Managing Director at Logix Group as well as Lily Peel, Operations & Sales Manager for Hullbot who joined them for a thought-provoking panel discussion.
Attendees were treated to more than just insightful discussions. Following the forum, they had the opportunity to network and enjoy a member Fashion Show. Respected brands including Sarah Lloyd, My Paloma, and Quality Marine Clothing showcased the latest trends leading into the upcoming boating season, as female and male models strutted their stuff on the catwalk.
The event was hosted at the Sydney Boathouse in Rozelle which provided a dramatic backdrop and venue for what is expected to be an ongoing commitment by BIA to a more inclusive boating world.