NEWS - Andrew Short Marine continues trading

The family and business associates of Andrew Short Marine have confirmed the company will continue to trade and expand.

The company's founder, Andrew Short, died in a yacht race off Wollongong on Saturday, October 10. A memorial service will be held at St Mary’s Cathedral in the city today and then at the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia.

Andrew Short Marine general manager, Liam O'Halloran said the tragedy had affected all the staff at the company, which is closed today.

“But, a week on, Kylie Short and the team have done what Andrew would have expected of us — we've regrouped, met with the businesses' key suppliers and financial partners, and confirmed what we already knew,” said O’Halloran.

“Andrew Short Marine is established and well-supported and is regarded by the industry and its customers as one of the most important retail boating operations in Sydney. It is our determination to continue to focus on customer-service, which has always been a hallmark of our business,” he said.

Andrew Short Marine operates from four sites — Taren Point, Yowie Bay Marina, Ferguson's Boatshed Marina, and d’Albora Marina The Spit. O’Halloran said Andrew Short had built a strong business over 27 years with the support of some of the most important manufacturers in the industry.

Key suppliers to the business — including Brunswick, distributors of Sea Ray, Boston Whaler and Mercury Marine products — have issued statements of ongoing support.

“In fact, our retail outlets are so important to their presence in the Sydney market that they are keen to see us continue. There was never any doubt in their mind,” O’Halloran said.

"Andrew Short Marine will remain an important part of the Sydney retail boating industry.

"It is an extremely well established and well supported business and its expansion plans will continue to be implemented,” said O’Halloran who added that the Short family and the businesses had been overwhelmed with messages of condolence received in the last week.

"Andrew created a robust business which counts many of its customers as friends. Family, management and staff will continue to operate the business with the same focus on customer service," said O’Halloran.

“But, because Andrew's name is on the business, and because the business has been so personal, we've noticed some of our customers have been a little reluctant to call in. That is the last thing Andrew would have wanted.

“Our business — whether it is the sales area, service division, chandlery, moorings or even the restaurant at The Spit — has always been a place to have a chat.

“Andrew loved boating and it is a passion shared by anyone who chooses to be on the water,” O’Halloran said.

For further information, contact Liam O’Halloran: phone (02) 9524 2699 or email: sales@andrewshortmarine.com.au

Photo: Andrew Short.