Whitsundays welcome commitment of $1m in boat ramps

by Jeni Bone on 13 Dec 2010 Mackay and Whitsunday regions' boaties are celebrating the confirmation that two new boat ramps will be constructed following more than a decade in limbo.

State member for Whitsunday, Jan Jarratt spoke with MarineBusiness-World.com and reiterated the government's commitment to fund the ramps at Constant Creek and Proserpine River.

'After a number of years, which has been the source of frustration for the local boating and fishing community, all parties have come to an agreed position, additional funding has been confirmed and time lines have been decided.'

Ms Jarratt explained that construction on the ramps had been delayed for so many years because of the drawn out process to ascertain the appropriate locations and designs, and investigate environmental concerns.

'In this region we are subject to major tidal differences and silting, which can be very dangerous,' she said. 'There was a lot of detailed study that needed to be done and now, the design process can get underway.'

Mackay Sunfish president Lance Murray estimated the total value of the promised boat ramps to be between $1million and $1.25million.

Ms Jarratt confirmed the Constant Creek ramp will be built to service 'tinnies and trailerable boats' and is likely to be completed by the end of 2011.

The Proserpine River boat ramp, the subject of more detailed design work, is likely to be built as a double lane ramp, with a floating pontoon, 'depending on expert advice on the best design'.

The Proserpine River boat ramp is expected to be built within two years.

It is estimated there are around 9000 registered boats supporting a multi-million dollar industry in Mackay, necessitating upgraded infrastructure like ramp services and facilities.