A tide of change has occurred in the superyacht industry with the appointment of a new manager to the Super Yacht Group – Great Barrier Reef.

The Super Yacht Group - Great Barrier Reef is an industry cluster of more than 80 organisations, working collaboratively to further develop the superyacht industry for Cairns and Australia. Between 40 - 50 vessels now regularly visit Cairns each year to undergo maintenance and experience the custom-built Cairns Marlin Marina.

The new manager, Narelle Phipps replaces Jacqueline Brinkman, who served as Chief Executive Officer for six years. Ms Brinkman has been on maternity leave for the last 12 months and has chosen to now focus on her business development and communication consultancy business. Ms Brinkman will continue to assist the Super Yacht Group on a project basis.

“I have greatly enjoyed assisting this industry to grow over the last six years and am proud of the status Cairns now enjoys as Australia’s pre-eminent superyacht destination.” said Ms Brinkman.

The Super Yacht Group president, Ley James played tribute to Ms Brinkman’s contribution, “Jacqueline began working with the superyacht industry in 2002. At that time we were attracting about 8 boats per year. Now we consistently attract more than 40 per year. This growth is testament to the hard work and dedication by Jacqueline, her marketing expertise and her ability to encourage collaboration amongst industry members.”

Ms Phipps joins the superyacht industry with a background in finance. An accountant with a Bachelor of Commerce, she looks forward to further developing the superyacht industry and servicing the cluster members.

“This is a wonderful challenge and I am excited to build upon the advancements already made and to explore new opportunities. Cairns has so much to offer as a superyacht destination.” Said Ms Phipps.

Ms Phipps was born and bred in Cairns and recently returned to the city after a stint working in Brisbane.

“Narelle brings strong management skills and great energy to the role and the industry is looking forward to working with her. There is still much to do to ensure that Cairns remains the most popular superyacht destination in Australia.” Said Mr James.