17/9/05
The Gallop Government’s commitment to the improvement of boating facilities throughout the State was reinforced today with the presentation of funding to the Shire of Carnarvon for a new boat-launching facility for the town.
Visiting Carnarvon, Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan presented the shire with the first instalment of the Government’s $350,000 contribution to the new launching facility.
Ms MacTiernan said a major plan to improve and streamline the operation of Carnarvon Boat Harbour had reaped benefits for both commercial and recreational users.
“With the construction of the new land-backed wharf in the small boat harbour, the relocation and improvement of the town’s boat ramp became a priority,” she said.
“To be located adjacent to the yacht club marina, the boat ramp will be a dual-lane facility and include boat holding jetties, a manoeuvring area, trailer parking and associated services.
“The quality and standard of the facility not only meet the growing need for improved boating facilities in the region, importantly they will also encourage boat owners to limit launches to a suitable area.”
Funding for the project comes from the Department for Planning and Infrastructure’s successful Recreational Boating Facilities Scheme (RBFS).
The total cost of the new boat launching facility is $804,000, of which $350,000 over two stages ($150,000 for stage one, $200,000 for stage two) is being funded by the RBFS.
“The first instalment of $100,000 represents 50 per cent of the Government’s contribution to the second stage of the project comprising the land-based work,” the Minister said.
“Planning is well advanced for the construction of the parking area for at least 80 car/trailer bays and, as such, the department is allowed to release half of the funding allocated.
“We look forward to making further funding instalments as the design and engineering specifications for the first stage of the project advance.”
Ms MacTiernan said the RBFS had seen more than $4.5million granted to 127 boating infrastructure projects throughout Western Australia since 1998.
“The RBFS provides a means for the Government to provide improved facilities for the growing number of boat owners in WA working in partnership with local authorities throughout the State,” she said.
“Funds are provided to local authorities on a dollar-for-dollar basis for new boating infrastructure and for improvements to existing facilities.
“A comprehensive review of the scheme in 2004 resulted in an expansion of the funding guidelines for the scheme and the inclusion of land-based facilities such as trailer parking, trailer manoeuvring hardstands and ablution blocks.
“This ensures that local authorities such as the Shire of Carnarvon are able to maximise the funding contribution from the State Government for initiatives such as the new Carnarvon boat ramp.
“This is part of our commitment to ensuring regional WA receives its fair share in terms of infrastructure funding.”
Grants are recommended by the RBFS Assessment Committee, comprising representatives from the Department for Planning and Infrastructure, the WA Local Government Association, the WA Tourism Commission, State Boating Council (Recfishwest and Jet Sport West Boating Association), Swan River Trust and FESA, and approved by the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure.
Minister's office: 9213 6400
