BIAWA AGM and Awards Night 2024

by GTP on 2024-10-28

On 4 October 2024, the Boating Industry Association of WA (BIAWA) held its Annual General Meeting at Burswood On Swan. The event marked a time of transition, with the formation of a newly elected board for 2025.

This AGM saw significant leadership changes, as BIAWA bid farewell to long-serving board members, Kevin Horsley (Vice President and past Treasurer), Geoff Hunter (Treasurer), Gill Orly (Board Member), and Life Member John Gardella. Each has contributed immensely to the Association, and their dedication has been instrumental in BIAWA’s growth and success.

We are pleased to welcome new board members and confirm the BIAWA Board:

Luke Chivers, Chivers Marine
James Clark, Lux Custom Boats
Darren Heath, Stage and Studio Productions (existing)
Nick Karageorge, Barbagallo Marine
Adele Maughan, Razerline
Brett Prior, West Coast Boat Works
Tony Spiteri, HiTech Marine (reelected)
Sheryl Swarbrick, Life Member (reelected)

These new board members join us with fresh perspectives and a shared commitment to advancing the Association’s mission, and we look forward to an exciting future.

BIAWA sincerely thanks our departing board members for their invaluable service.

Industry Awards Night

The BIAWA Industry Awards Night, hosted alongside the Annual General Meeting, was a night to remember! Celebrating the exceptional talent in our industry, we honored Legends who've paved the way and Apprentices who represent the future. It was an evening filled with applause, inspiration, and well-deserved recognition for our industry’s finest!

Legend of the Industry Awards

Two ‘Legend of the Industry’ awards were presented on the night. The first was presented posthumously to Laurie Chivers, and accepted on behalf of the Chivers family by Luke Chivers. Many a story was told on the night of Laurie and the impact he had on the marine industry.

The second ‘Legend of the Industry’ award was presented to Tom Blaxell, who’s boating journey began as a baby on his family yacht, and encompassed manufacturing, sales and a commitment to the industry and its community, serving as President and life member of the Dolphin Surfriders Club, Commodore of the Offshore Power Boat Club, and President of Surfing WA.

These two ‘Legend of the Industry’ award recipients truly earned this title.!

Apprentices of the Year

Congratulations to the 2024 BIAWA Apprentices of the Year! This prestigious recognition celebrates the hard work, dedication, and exceptional skills demonstrated by our talented apprentices.

The Apprentice of the Year awards were presented by Award Sponsor, Wayne Mollenoyux - Repco Commerical and Kerry Banyard - South Metropolitan TAFE.

These apprentices have shown commitment to excellence in the marine industry and we are proud to honor your achievements.

Composites Engineering Apprentice - Owen Weston, Prestige Fiberglass
Marine Mechanical Technology - Bryce McDonald, Aquasports Marine
Marine Craft Construction - Dylan Hopkins, Composite Components
Marine Fabrication - Dylan Ainsworth Vidich, Outlaw Boats

The future of the boating industry is bright with leaders like you shaping its course. On behalf of the Boating Industry Association, we wish you continued success as you pursue your careers and contribute to the growth and innovation of Western Australia’s marine sector. Well done!

On behalf of the BIAWA, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Repco Commercial for their generous sponsorship of the 2024 Apprentice of the Year Awards. Your support not only makes this event possible but also highlights the value we place on recognising and encouraging the talented apprentices shaping the future of our industry.