Oct 2026
Kade Bassham
I have been on the Murray in South Australia in boats for my entire life, thanks to my dad’s lifelong passion for boats and waterskiing.
Over the years, our family has owned many boats — quite literally, we’ve lost count! One of the more recent ski boats was even named Boat Habit. Along the way, we’ve had a couple of yachts, sterndrives, and multiple inboard and outboard ski boats.
Among the multitude of boats we’ve owned was a beautiful metallic green Gilflite Integra. Looking back, we probably should have kept that one!
Dad has always admired the Gilflite Esprit Bowrider, and now, at the young age of 73, he has finally bought himself a 2000 model, fitted with a late-model Mercury Optimax 225 on the transom.
Ironically, the Integra we sold years ago ended up in WA, while the Esprit made the trip in the opposite direction, being trucked from WA to South Australia.
Since taking possession of the Esprit, we’ve given it a bit of a birthday. It received a deep clean inside, a cut and polish on the outside, and a fresh set of decals courtesy of Gilflite. We’ve also updated the electronics with a nice stereo system, interior and transom lighting, and customised the dash cluster to suit the newer outboard, which requires fewer gauges.
The trailer hasn’t missed out either, receiving a fresh coat of paint and a nice new set of wheels.
Dad’s love of the river, skiing and boats has certainly been passed down. Both my sister and I have inherited the passion, and now it’s making its way into the next generation. The four grandkids all charge to sit in the bow whenever the boat heads out!
And at 73, Dad is still quick to get out behind the boat on a slalom ski and show the young ones how it’s done.
For our family, it’s about much more than just owning another boat. It’s about the memories, the river, the skiing, and — most importantly — spending time together.
We’re looking forward to many more summers, with multiple generations of our family enjoying time together on the water in the Gilflite.
Below: GILFLITE Gear and logos (thank you email)
Hey Paula,
I received the stickers & shirt, Thank you!
The quality & colours are perfect.
Please see the attached photos, they worked out great & look awesome on the boat. Dad loves his new shirt.
We’ve had MANY boats over the years (including a beautiful dark green metalic Integra), but Dad has always wanted an Esprit bowrider, at 73 years young he bought one & still salom skiing behind it
Thanks again,
Kade
Story by Kade Bassham
Photos courtesy Kade Bassham
Published: GillGirl Media – Paula Gill – GILFLITE Boats – GILFLITE website
GILFLITE a style of life!