Steve Fisher, Rivergate Marina & Shipyard’s former Director of International Business was among the winners of the 2025 Australian Marine Industry Awards who were recognised at the Australian Marine Industry Awards Gala Dinner, held recently at The Langham Gold Coast. Steve was recognised for his 42 years of contribution to the Australian marine industry, at Rivergate and in his capacity with AIMEX-Superyacht Australia, with the 2025 Marine Industry Champion Award – the pinnacle of recognition across the entire marine industry. In 2014, Steve won the Superyacht Industry Champion award.
Steve, who worked tirelessly for Rivergate for 18 years in the roles of General Manager and Director of International Business, and attended international yacht shows and industry events on Rivergate’s behalf throughout his tenure, was taken aback by the award and the adulation. “It was totally out of the blue,” he said. “I managed to keep my tears at bay, but plenty of people came up later and said to me, ‘you made me cry, you bastard!’” To a standing ovation, he accepted the award and, in his usual laconic style, brought the audience to tears of laughter and sentimentality, spinning tales from retirement and sharing memories of a stellar career in yachting.
Judy Brinsmead, owner of Rivergate Marina & Shipyard, said Steve’s recognition was exceedingly well-earned. “The standing ovation from his colleagues says it all. His contribution to the marine industry in Australia and, indeed, internationally has been immense. AIMEX-Superyacht Australia CEO, David Good paid tribute to Steve Fisher saying, “This is a lifetime achievement award, because Steve has dedicated his career and his life to the marine industry in all its facets. This is just recognition for all the things he’s done above and beyond his job descriptions. “Steve has spent more time than anybody criss-crossing the world to convince international Captains to bring their vessels to Australia, which in turn generates thousands of jobs for tradespeople and service providers.
“We will miss Steve on the yacht show circuit. He’s like a father figure to everybody.”
