Described by past recipients as “extremely valuable for brand recognition, positioning and credibility”, the Australian Marine Industry Awards are free to enter and worth their weight in gold.
Carl Amor, co-director of specialist lighting manufacturer, Aqualuma, which was awarded 2016 Export Champion, said his brand and business have benefited immensely from the recognition that comes with winning and from the exercise of entering.
“Our customers see it as recognition by industry and our peers of achievements in the global marine sector,” he said. “If you are looking at chasing export markets, taking part in the Awards adds credibility. The process in itself is worthwhile for businesses, who can use the entry as a clarification of business plans, target markets, growth and marketing strategies.
“Some people may think their business is too small or niche, but this year, there was a real diversity and breadth of entries,” Amor continued. “You have to be in it to win it, as they say. We recommend entering the Awards for the benefit of your business – and winning is a bonus!”
Applications are invited from any organisation or firm that exports marine goods and services of Australian origin and that meet the awards criteria (available online).
According to CEO of AIMEX-Superyacht Australia, “The Awards provide entrants with the opportunity to be recognised for innovation, achievements and contributions to the Australian export, superyacht and commercial marine industries. Entrants receive publicity and media exposure for their business products and services and are positioned as inspirational leaders in creating positive change and innovation in the industry.
“Participation is an excellent team motivator, and great means of establishing networks with past winners and entrants, all of whom have high-calibre international contacts and the will to work as a collaborative Australian team.”
Categories include Most Innovative Marine Industry Exported Product or Service; Industry Export Marketing Strategy; Best Marine Industry Export Performance; 2017 Superyacht Industry Business of the Year – Service Provider; 2017 Superyacht Industry Business of the Year – Manufacturer; 2017 Commercial Marine Manufacturer of the Year; 2017 Most Innovative Marine Industry Commercial Product or Service, among others.
The 2017 Judging Panel comprises: Ken Evans (Chair Judge) – Marine Consultant; Barry Jenkins – Government, Industry and International Relations, Mulpha Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show; John Zammit – Founder and Publisher, Shipmate Marine Directory; Joe Akacich – Managing Director, Blackpond Marine Consultants Pty Ltd; Deo Chand – Trade Adviser, Advanced Manufacturing Trade Services, Austrade; Steve Mitchell – Naval Architect/ Marine Consultant.
Application forms for the 2017 Australian Marine Awards can be downloaded from:
Export Category www.aimex.asn.au
Superyacht Category www.superyacht-australia.com
Commercial Category www.commercialmarine.com.au
The Awards presentation will take place at the Industry Gala Dinner on the evening of Tuesday 23 May 2017, during the ASMEX Conference and ahead of the 2017 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.
For all enquiries and to book your place at the Gala Dinner & Awards, please contact Lhamo Johnson on Tel: 03 9867 6625 or email ljohnson@aimex.asn.au
