Business survival in today’s economic climate can often be a matter of sink or swim. It is increasingly rare to see a business which continues to set itself apart from its competitors, and, for lack of a better word, ‘float.’ This is true of Leigh-Smith Cruiser Sales. Three generations of Leigh-Smiths have taken this business from strength to strength, and, in its wake, transformed the face of the Queensland Marine Industry. Even in today’s difficult economy, Leigh-Smith Cruiser Sale’s continues to pioneer changes and innovation in the marine industry, solidifying their reputation as industry leaders.

In the early sixties, when Reg Leigh-Smith sold his first outboard motor, it was unlikely he envisaged his efforts growing into one of the largest family-owned boat companies in Australia. From a little retail business on the Island of Capri selling small boats, Reg and his three sons gradually expanded the business to encompass almost all aspects of the industry.

Fast forward four decades and this once a small family business is celebrating its 48^th birthday this May 9. The past four decades has seen three generations of Leigh-Smiths forge changes in the Marine Industry through design innovation and dedication to supplying exceptional products. Dealer Principle Dean Leigh-Smith said LSCS has remained strong and vigilant over the years and has continued to sell boats to repeat clients who are often second and third generation clients.

“I have a chuckle when I’m talking to a client who tells me that their father or their grandfather purchased a boat off my father Jeff, uncle Noel or my grandfather Reg many moons ago,” Dean said.

“My father Jeff sold his first boat in 1964. It was a bright cherry red 17ft Caribbean Catalina to a client who has done business with our family for the past 48 years. Even to this day, he remains a client and frequents the GCCM facility.”

In a marketplace that seems to be filled with insecurity, fear and uncertainty, LSCS offers the peace of mind required when it comes time to do business.

“This piece of mind, combined with our stunning range of vessels from Alaska Motor Yachts, Hampton Yachts and Endurance Yachts, has seen nearly 100 proud new boat owners in the past decade alone,” Dean said.

The Leigh-Smith legacy saw Jeff Leigh-Smith awarded a life membership to Marine Queensland just in time for LSCS’s 48^th birthday. The accolade was in recognition of Jeff’s significant contribution to the recreational and light commercial marine industry in Queensland. In the thirty-eight years of Marine Queensland’s existence, only fourteen people have received this award.