Clump Point pontoon helps Mission Beach tourism

by Queensland Government on 14 Nov 2008 Mission Beach is set to get a new, safe boating pontoon next year to help rejuvenate tourism in the area following the destruction of Cyclone Larry in 2006, Tourism Minister Desley Boyle announced today.

'The community and the Cassowary Coast Regional Council have been tirelessly campaigning for a safe boating pontoon at Clump Point boat ramp and has been raising funds for this project,' Ms Boyle said.

'I am pleased to announce today that Tourism Queensland and the Department of Tourism, Regional Development and Industry as well as Queensland Transport will contribute the remaining $120,000 required to make this project a reality.

'The pontoon, which should be operational by early next year, will provide a safe boat-launching facility between Innisfail and Cardwell.

'Clump Point boat ramp is the ideal location as it is the most commonly used beachside launching facility. It’s used by locals, tourists and tour businesses alike.

'This initiative was one of the key projects identified in the Cyclone Larry project report to meet visitor and community needs in Mission Beach.

'The pontoon will assist not only the community but also visitors, many of whom travel to the region and are attracted by the prospect of being able to use their boats.'

Ms Boyle said the initiative would also help address health and safety issues caused by erosion, lack of maintenance, overuse and apparent dangers associated with local marine life such as jellyfish, stone fish and crocodiles.

The pontoon would be designed to withstand heavy conditions and can be easily dismantled and reconfigured.

Ms Boyle said the pontoon project had helped galvanise the once-disparate community and was a coup for Mission Beach.

'Clump Point Pontoon will help drive a stronger future for tourism in the region,' she said.