Port of Airlie Beach open

by Jamie Martin on 12 Jul 2011 The Hon Minister for Tourism, Manufacturing and Small Business, Jan Jarratt along with Whitsunday Mayor Mike Brunker and Meridien Managing Director, Mr Russell McCart today officially opened Airlie Beach’s first full tidal beach, Boathaven Beach.

Whitsunday MP Jan Jarratt said 'Meridien’s Port of Airlie development was a massive investment in the local economy and a great boost to business confidence'.

'This exciting project adds to the spectacular beauty of Airlie Beach by diversifying our product offerings and enhancing visitor experiences'.

'This marina residential resort will help broaden the appeal of Airlie Beach, refresh our image and provide tourists with more accommodation options'.

In the face of recent challenges, I see the Port of Airlie’s Boathaven Beach as a symbol of confidence in our community as we all fight back from a shocking summer’' Ms Jarratt said.

As part of the Port of Airlie development, the new all-tide beach features a wide stretch of white sand, which faces the Coral Sea.

The man-made beach saw Meridien import over 60,000 cubic metres of sand from Ten Mile Creek in North Queensland.

Boathaven Beach underwent significant wave analysis and was designed to protect the residential homes that front the beach, as well as the Port of Airlie marina.

Recent adverse weather conditions have ensured the beach can withstand significant cyclonic events including Cyclone Ului, Anthony and category five Yasi.

'Boathaven Beach is a major addition to Port of Airlie and Airlie Beach, and will be enjoyed by the local community, visitors and Port of Airlie residents alike', said Managing Director, Russell McCart.

Boathaven Beach and Headland Park are located on The Beacons peninsula, which will also house fifteen of the best beachfront home sites in Australia. The Beacons welcomed their first resident in early June, with further construction underway.

Port of Airlie has also seen the recent completion and opening of the $100 million Boathouse Apartments, public harbourside boardwalk, new retail and fashion precinct and the first stage of the Port of Airlie marina.

Upon completion, the $750 million master planned development will include two luxury resort hotels, 365 residential apartments, 39 waterfront home sites, 15 beachfront homes, a fully integrated Fantasea ferry and cruise terminal and bus terminal, a marina with 289 marina berths and world-class dining and shopping