Boost for boaties at Proserpine River boat ramp

Proserpine River boat ramp will get a major upgrade as part of the Palaszczuk Government’s $30 million boost for Queensland boaties.

Main Roads and Ports Minister Mark Bailey was in Proserpine today for Community Cabinet and said the boat ramp would be duplicated, from two to four lanes.

“One in every 10 people in the Mackay/Whitsunday region own a boat*, and the popularity of boating and fishing is continually increasing - it’s important that we keep up with the demand,” Mr Bailey said.

“Currently the floating walkway is located on the upstream side of the Proserpine River boat ramp.

“Due to the exposed nature of the location, using the floating walkway can be dangerous during high tides and strong south-easterly winds.

“Adding two more lanes to the floating walkway will provide a more sheltered environment allowing for all year access and increased safety.

“Doubling the ramp lanes will reduce congestion at this popular local ramp.”

Mr Bailey said the projects was part of the Palaszczuk Government’s $30 million Marine Infrastructure Fund, for 70 boat ramps over the next two years.

“An upgrade to the existing boat ramp and causeway at St Helens Beach, Carpet Snake Point is also being funded as part of the Marine Infrastructure Fund,” Mr Bailey said.

“We’re also undertaking a feasibility study for a new pontoon at Airlie Beach and for a new boat ramp at Cape Gloucester.

“Earlier this year we completed a $3 million upgrade to the Cannonvale boat ramp, meeting a Palaszczuk Government election commitment.

“Boaties across Queensland will benefit from new and upgraded boat ramps, floating walkways, pontoons and improved access to channels as part of this program.”

Mr Bailey said many of the projects were identified through the online recreational boating survey.

“We received more than 1000 submissions through the Get Involved website and this feedback has been invaluable in identifying which projects are most needed,” he said.

“About 70 per cent of these projects are in regional Queensland and feasibility studies will also be completed across the State to investigate the possibility of future works.”

A full list of projects is available on the TMR website http://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/Projects/Name/M/Marine-Infrastructure-Fund-recreational-boating-infrastructure-projects

ENDS

Background:

*In June 2015 there were 19,428 recreational vessels registered in the Mackay region; 1 vessel for every 10 people or 1 vessel for every 2 recreational vessel licensees.

The Mackay maritime region includes 800 km of mainland coastline extending from St. Lawrence to Georges Point in the north, 1341 km of island coastline and 11,890 km of inland waterways.

Media contact:

Minister Bailey’s office – 0419 246 157