Held in March, the 2005 show's theme was 'The Shape of Things to Come' - and it proved to be the biggest yet! The Expo boasted a record 500-plus exhibitors from 22 countries, 11 associated major conferences, along with media briefings, workshops and other events. Hundreds of accredited media, including a large international contingent, descended on Avalon to cover the event. This, and the record number of trade exhibitors, reinforced the fact that the Airshow was gathering momentum in the corporate aerospace world, especially in the area of defence. The aircraft enthusiasts and families also turned up in droves and the public days drew big, enthusiastic crowds.