NEWS - Azzura Marine MD new Superyacht Base Australia chairman

Superyacht Base Australia (SYBA), the peak body representing Australia’s superyacht industry, has announced Azzura Marine managing director, David McQueen, as the new chairman of the organisation.

SYBA said McQueen brings over 30 years of boatbuilding and management experience to the group, complete with the passion and drive to position the organisation and its members in the best possible light for the future.

“I am dedicated to
representing SYBA and its 300 plus members throughout the world. These are unprecedented times in our industry, and this
gives rise to new
opportunities," said McQueen.

"The depreciation of the Australian dollar currently represents extreme value for international clients and is a prime example of the opportunities we will look to
capitalise on,"
he said.

McQueen has served six years on the SYBA board and was unanimously elected by his peers. SYBA said it is confident that his industry knowledge will provide the leadership to develop and unify the superyacht industry, a key factor in maintaining profitability and growth for Australia.

SYBA said his involvement in more than 3000 feet of superyacht construction has earned him a reputation as one of the most talented yachtbuilders in the country, contributing to the success of high-profile yachtbuilders such as Azzura Marine, Oceanfast and Warren Yachts.

He played a vital role in the expansion of Azzura Marine, effectively establishing the group’s third shipyard, Azzura Marine Newcastle, as the premier superyacht new-build and refit/repair centre in the South Pacific region, said SYBA. Azzura Marine, it added, is recognised for constructing award-winning custom yachts up to 74m under the Azzura Yachts brand.

McQueen succeeds past chairman and well-known marine industry leader, Barry Jenkins, who stood down from the position after 10 years. Jenkins remains a key board member of SYBA along with
other notable
marine industry figures and is very excited about the future of SYBA and what David
will bring to the industry.