Brisbane Boat Show opens today

ONE of the most diverse Brisbane Boat shows ever opens today at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The 51st annual show – set to run from August 25-28 - is set to blow former year's efforts out of the water.

Marine Queensland's events manager Jason Plant said the 2011 event was designed to exceed previous shows in order to get consumers excited about boating again and back on the water.

"Queensland boaties had a rough start to the year but the marine industry has proven it is made of tough stuff and has certainly triumphed over adversity in the last six months."

Fishing enthusiasts can get all of the latest of fishing technologies, tried and tested techniques and top tips on prime fishing locations from the Fishing stage.

Returning in 2011 is the Bream Fishing Tournament. Teams of anglers will deliver their live catches directly to the fishing stage across the weekend in a bid to secure their spot in the QLD Bream Classic finals to be held later in the year.

Headlining this year's array of exhibitors, the 37ft Boston Whaler and Sea Ray 370 Sundancer are some of the biggest boats to grace the floors of the show.

The always popular Kids Marine Zone will also return this year with plaster mould painting, rock climbing and professional fishing lessons.

More details: www.brisbaneboatshow.com.au.