New fishing workshops, new boats and hot deals at NBS 2009
Issue 1
The National Boat Show featuring Dive Expo (NBS) will take its award-winning innovations one step further this year when it introduces its first ever fishing workshop series, sponsored by leading fishing brand, Rapala VMC.
Visitors to NBS, taking place from 14 to 16 August 2009 at the Coca-Cola dome, will have the opportunity to hear industry experts discuss everything from saltwater applications and bank angling to bass and fly-fishing.
Heidi Warricker, MD of NBS organiser Biz Events, says massive public demand necessitated the need for the workshops.
"Visitor feedback last year pointed to the need for more fishing information and demonstrations. We strive to ensure each NBS is more innovative and compelling than the last, and meeting our visitors' needs is a critical part of achieving that objective," Warricker explains.
The workshops will feature in-depth presentations, practical demonstrations and Q&A sessions by top local anglers, including Henry Oosthuizen, Paul Borcherds, Hennie Papenfuss, Darryl Quinton, Pierre Bosch, Graeme Bosch, Nick Dubber, Justin Karan, GP Nel and Jumbo Willemse.
The new workshops are perfectly in line with current consumer trends. "South Africans place high value on outdoor leisure activities and we expect people to continue pursuing their favourite pastimes this year, despite current economic conditions" says Greg Bennet, chairman of the Boating Industry Association of South Africa (BIASA).
The current economic climate has created an interesting dynamic in the boating market. For example, says Bennet, there's never been a better time to buy.
"In the next few months, there will be bargains to be had that will never be seen again. Buyers with disposal income must take advantage of this. They may need to move from bigger to lower horsepower, upgrade instead of buying new or pool resources to buy as a syndicate, but there are still plenty of opportunities for new and used boat and engine sales," he explains.
Tracey Rock-Perring, Wake Accessories' national sales manager, agrees. "Cash buyers should look for discounts, and newcomers should take advantage of special financing deals as interest rates ease," she says. "If buying a new boat isn't an option, buyers should go for aftermarket accessories that add value to their boating lifestyle."
It's the appeal of this lifestyle, NBS exhibitors say, that makes boating attractive, no matter what the economic conditions.
"Boating is a way of life. It's more affordable, and can be used more frequently, than a holiday home. It's also a fantastic way to keep the entire family together and to enjoy the outdoors," says Broderick Sports' Mike Friedman.
"Buying a boat is not just about spending money, it's about improving your life. Boating provides us with enjoyable activities that take us away from everyday stress, allowing us to relax with friends and family. It makes us live happier and longer!" adds Stuart Mather-Pike of Simply Scuba Dive Charters.
"More people are turning to boating in an effort to lead a more balanced and less stressful life. Boats are perfect for this - they're investments; assets to be enjoyed over a lifetime," Rock-Perring says.
With this constant demand for solid investments, it's not surprising the major boat manufacturers will launch new models this year.
"This is good for all buyers: as new boats get snapped up at the top, so this causes a ripple effect through the rest of the market, making more affordable used boats available at the bottom end," says Bennet.
As Africa's premier boat and leisure show, with the biggest range of powerboats, sailboats, yachts and fishing boats on display, there will be no shortage of new boats at NBS 2009.
"We will launch a stunning, new 30 foot sports cabin cruiser fishing boat at NBS and feature a range of new entry level boats for buyers looking to enter the market and take advantage of current prices," says Andre van Helsdingen, owner of Twin Boats & Trailers.
Friedman says Broderick Sports will showcase a number of its premium brands. "We represent Azimut, Mastercraft and Cobalt in South Africa and will feature a range of these boats at our stand - they come standard with a serious 'wow factor'!" he adds.
NBS 2009 will guide visitors in making the best possible choices in purchasing their dream boat, must-have scuba gear or the many watersports products available.
That's because NBS is the continent's most comprehensive boat and leisure show, offering visitors the widest range of boating, fishing, scuba and watersports products, accessories and services. The show attracts more than 30 000 visitors annually and last year was the recipient of the EXSA Best Exhibition of the Year 2008 (Trade and Consumer) Award.
NBS is renowned for its visitor attractions. This year it will not only host its popular Win-a-Boat Lifestyle competition, but also introduce the Win-a-Scuba Lifestyle competition, with the latest scuba gear, a scuba course and diving holiday up for grabs.
Other highlights will include the Bass Africa Classic Live Weigh-In; the Wake Wars Wakeboarding Competition; kiddies casting pools and activity areas; and scuba workshops.
NBS gives away visitor prizes worth hundreds of thousands of rands each year. 2009 will be no different, so watch this space!
NBS 2009 opens on Friday 14 August (11h00 - 18h00), running through Saturday 15 August (09h00 - 18h00) to Sunday 16 August (09h00 - 17h00).
