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Source:
Go Boating Australia
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In just seven years, Paul Smithson and his General Manager Andrew Scott have developed the Sunrunner brand of sports cruisers from a single model manufacturer to a complete range from 28 feet to 48 feet.
Says Andrew, "Our first boat show was Sanctuary Cove in 2001 and although we had tremendous support from the printed media, Sanctuary Cove Boat Show has been a great place to create brand awareness". Although Sunrunner, now well established as one of Australia’s premier boat manufacturers, attend all of the major boat shows including Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Mandurah as well as Airlie Beach, they believe Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is the most prestigious.
According to Paul Smithson, launching Sunrunner and seeing the brand develop has given both he and Andrew greater enthusiasm to continue to develop new models.
Says Paul, "Although our first boat, the 3700 LE was launched at the Sanctuary Cove Boat Show in 2001 and went on to win the 2002 Boat of the Year, in the early years dealers were reluctant to do business with us because we only had one model. What I didn’t know was that there was a considerable number of 10 metre berths in Sydney and the 3700 was too big so the 3300 was launched to satisfy the market".
Since then, Sunrunner have developed the 3700 shaft drive, a genuine 37 foot diesel powered twin engine cruiser with shafts, the 4800 which Paul describes as "making a
statement" and then the 2800, a wide bodied 28ft sports cruiser.
At this year's show, Sunrunner unveiled the 3100 sports cruiser to further compliment the existing range. "In the last couple of years, we have made refinements to all the models and have produced an eclipse (hardtop) version of the 3700 and the 4800".
So why build another model between the 2800 and 3300? "Well", says Paul. "We listened to our customers and they were seeking a big volume 30 footer with twin engines, bow thruster and plenty of room to entertain at around the $200,000 mark, so we delivered".
While Sunrunner have recently expanded into the export market, according to Paul Smithson, the company intends to "look after our own backyard". Says Paul, "Our number one priority is to service the Australian consumer. They are our core business and that is why we are at Sanctuary Cove".
The Sunrunner stand is a welcoming place and according to Andrew Scott, it is important to treat all boat show patrons with the same level of respect. "Although some people might not be able to afford our models, we believe they are entitled to have a look at our boats".
It is a great company attitude and one which has certainly served the company well "We sold 18 boats at Sydney International Boat Show last year and it appears we will eclipse that number at Sanctuary Cove this year. This is why we have been at every Sanctuary Cove Boat Show since 2001", added Paul. The Sunrunner success story is certainly a case of 'Come on Aussie, Come on!!'
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