Peter Cleland has earned a place among the most distinguished figures in Victorian boating, with the Boating Industry Association of Victoria conferring Life Membership on him at the 2026 BIAV AGM. The Board's decision to honour him was unanimous.
Cleland's name is closely linked with Bar Crusher Boats, the aluminium plate-boat manufacturer he co-founded and helped shape over a 25-year tenure stretching from 1999 to 2024. During that time, the brand grew into one of Australia's most respected names in the segment, building a substantial national presence in the process.
His influence has never been confined to the commercial world. A long-standing member of the BIAV Board, Cleland has given decades of his time to the association and remains actively involved through the Advocacy Committee, consistently working to advance the interests of the boatbuilding sector and the broader boating community.
Cleland was unable to attend the AGM in person, but recorded a video message so that his gratitude could be shared with those gathered. In it, he expressed sincere appreciation to the Board and to his fellow Life Members for their endorsement.
