Iconic dealership celebrates 50 years

by Jeni Bone on 23 Sep 2014 John Crawford never dreamed a love of messing about on boats would lead to the creation of an empire. The Queensland boating identity has come a long way since his obsession for all things marine led him to set up a boatyard on the Wynnum Esplanade in 1964.

From humble beginnings, John Crawford Marine was born. Since then, the bayside boatyard has developed into Queensland’s most trusted name in buying, consigning and selling quality used trailer boats.

This year, John Crawford Marine is celebrating 50 years as leaders in the boating industry.

In line with the foundations laid by John Crawford 50 years ago, the team that steer the modern day company have one thing in common – a genuine love for boating and for supporting those who have a passion for getting out on the water.
'It’s a passion for boats and the marine world, and it’s a passion that brings the whole family together,' says Matthew Hodson, John Crawford Marine’s owner and managing director.

John Crawford gave up a career as a commercial traveller to set up the business 50 years ago, and quickly established himself as an honest and unbiased businessman, committed to responding to his customers’ needs. Those ethics continue today.

'There is no hard bias towards brands,' says Hodson. 'Because we do not sell new boats, we can sell all kinds of boats and can really tailor-make the product to suit the customer.'

They have indulged the hobbies of some of Australia’s most colourful boating characters, with many fans returning time and again to trade. Recently, one of the company’s first customers returned to buy another boat, 50 years after purchasing his first one from John Crawford Marine.

'It’s wonderful to see people come back after 50 years or so, when they want to upsize or downsize. We have customers who come from the Northern Territory and Western Australia, and all over. It’s amazing that someone on the other side of the country has the trust and the faith in what you do to travel so far.'

All boats are pre-tested and come with comprehensive written mechanical reports, guaranteed title, engine warranty, and are sold compliant, seaworthy and roadworthy.

'You will be completely looked after from bow to stern, port to starboard,' says Hodson.

And it’s not all about profit at John Crawford Marine. Staff members are regulars at boating and lifestyle shows, and pride themselves on giving free advice and valuations.

Other services include advice about insurance and theft deterrents, reviews, safety, plus support for environmental preservation of marine environments and the Great Barrier Reef.

The company is in touch with the modern consumer, using social media that includes Facebook, e-newsletters, and YouTube to to interact with boaties and anglers.

They have also created a valuable trailer sailer reference library available to the public. Based on information gathered by the dealership and customers over the past 50 years, the library contains digitally reworked marketing brochures, boat tests, reviews and other information gathered since the yard opened in 1964.

Mr Hodson painstakingly catalogued the Queensland history of trailer yachts, affectionately known as trailer sailers, after discovering a treasure trove of information buried in the company storeroom.

The trailer sailers were an integral part of the marine industry, and played a large part of the success of John Crawford Marine’s early years. The company is also credited with introducing hobi cats to Australia.

'The library is available on PDF and on our website as a free resource,' Hodson says. 'With our website and the knowledge of our staff, the story is that we like to invite people into the world of boating. That, to me, is the point of difference. Getting out on the water brings families together.'

As John Crawford, who now lives in a nursing home on the Gold Coast says: 'I don’t ever regret getting into the boating business.'

According to Hodson and the team at John Crawford Marine: 'There is nothing – absolutely nothing – half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats.' *

Website: http://www.johncrawfordmarine.com.au/home
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johncrawfordmarine

* Kenneth Grahame, The Wind In The Willows

JCM - Company Profile from Buyah Media on Vimeo.