Coral Sea Marina's Better Boating Expo sets sail for sustainability and safety
by Coral Sea Marina Resort 14 Jul 19:17 NZST
11 July 2025
Life Raft Demonstration at the Better Boating Expo © Coral Sea Marina Resort
Coral Sea Marina's Better Boating Expo, held on Friday 11th July, welcomed a vibrant crowd of locals, visitors, and members of the boating community for a day packed with education, entertainment, and environmental advocacy at the Coral Sea Marina Gardens.
From safety at sea to sustainability tips and local reef knowledge, the expo offered a fun-filled and informative day for all ages. Families and children, in particular, were thrilled by the live life raft demonstration, presented by Volunteer Marine Rescue Whitsundays, which gave them the rare chance to "hop on board" a real raft and imagine the experience of being adrift at sea.
Many young visitors also eagerly took part in the safety flare deployment, tested their skills at Mainstay Sailing's rope station, and learned about the fragile beauty of the Great Barrier Reef from the passionate team of local Master Reef Guides. Visitors were also invited to head down to the water and explore VMR1, Volunteer Marine Rescue Whitsunday's rescue vessel, and Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service's barge, and to chat with the crew on board.
The event successfully brought together an inspiring range of organisations including Queensland Parks and Wildlife, Maritime Safety Queensland, Tangaroa Blue, Whales of the Whitsundays, and many more inspiring local businesses, all offering engaging presentations and hands-on experiences aimed at promoting safer, smarter, and more sustainable boating.
The Better Boating Expo also served as the official launch of Coral Sea Marina's new Better Boating Guide - Our Guide to Greener Recreational Boating. Designed for everyone who spends time on the water, this comprehensive guide provides tips on reducing environmental impact, managing waste, protecting the marine environment, and being a positive ambassador for the ocean.
"It was incredible to see such a strong turnout from our local community and visitors alike, all eager to learn and engage with the marine environment," said Joscelyn O'Keefe, Head of Marketing and Business Development at Coral Sea Marina.
"The Better Boating Expo is a reminder of the positive impact we can have when we come together to share knowledge, encourage sustainable choices, and foster a culture of responsibility on our waters."
With face painting, ice cream, expert advice, and hands-on experiences, the Better Boating Expo proved to be both educational and enjoyable, reinforcing Coral Sea Marina's commitment to environmental stewardship and community connection.
For more information or to download the Better Boating Guide, visit the Coral Sea Academy website at www.coralseaacademy.com.