Hey! Hay Point’s Half Tide Tug Harbour has a new floating walkway

The Palaszczuk Government funded floating walkway at Half Tide Tug Harbour in Hay Point has been completed, giving Mackay region boaties more high quality maritime infrastructure to choose from. 

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the new $589,000 floating walkway was a great addition to the public boat ramp. 

‘‘The much-needed project was funded by the Palaszczuk Government and delivered by North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP),’’ Mr Bailey said. 

 “Now open to the public, we expect this new addition will quickly became a vital piece of public marine infrastructure in the Mackay region.

“We know how much Queenslanders love getting out on the water, and this demonstrates the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to delivering for people in regional communities.

“As part of this year’s budget, we announced an additional $30 million committed over two years for the Marine Infrastructure Fund.

“One in 19 Queenslanders are recreational boating enthusiasts. That’s why the Palaszczuk Government is focused on building more facilities and essential improvements – so keen anglers can continue to enjoy their time on the water.”

Local Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said the walkway would have several benefits for local and visiting boaties including improved all-tide access. 

‘’Located next to the southern side of the existing boat ramp, vessels can access the walkway from both sides and it will make embarking and disembarking of trailer-boat passengers easier,’’ Mrs Gilbert  said. 

‘‘We also expect the walkway to ease on-water congestion at peak times. 

‘‘The 2.4m wide and 40m long heavy-duty floating walkway has been designed to cope with the occasional wave action entering the harbour. 

“This is a great example of the Palaszczuk Government and the port authority working together to deliver benefits for Queenslanders and of course, allowing more boaties to get out on our beautiful waters.’’ 

NQBP Acting CEO Brendan Webb said NQBP was thrilled to be given the opportunity to deliver the floating walkway project to the Hay Point community. 

“As the port authority for the Port of Hay Point, one of our key roles is to work for the interests of the community,” Mr Webb said. 

“A floating walkway at Half Tide tug harbour boat ramp has been a long talked about safety requirement for the Hay Point community. 

“More broadly, boaties, fishers and their families will benefit from this new facility.” 

The completed new floating walkway will now be owned and managed by NQBP. 

Funding was provided from TMR’s Marine Infrastructure Investment Program.

ENDS

Media contact: Dominic Geiger, 044735565