Joint media statement – Transport and Main Roads and Whitsunday Regional Council Great news for Whit
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An agreement has been reached between state and local governments for the delivery of a much-needed new boat launching facility at Shute Harbour.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mr Mark Bailey has today announced the signing of a Deed of Agreement between Transport and Main Roads and the Whitsunday Regional Council, securing a new location within the harbour for recreational boating use.
“As most Queensland boaties would know, flat foreshore land in key locations for building new recreational boating infrastructure is rarely available.
“Securing this prime foreshore land within Shute Harbour for a brand-new facility is a win for all boaties who either live or visit the beautiful Whitsundays.
Mr Bailey said now that we have this crucial agreement in place, the design phase can ramp up. “We will now progress to a detailed design for a new four or five lane boat ramp.
“I am pleased to say the new facility will go a long way to help address the shortfall of recreational boat launching facilities in the Whitsunday region.
“Funding for the in-water component of this long awaited project has already been committed by the Queensland Government. This was part of $4 million for boat ramps across the Whitsundays.
“Partnering with council to ensure this project fits with the Shute Harbour Restoration Project is now an important task requiring collaboration to ensure the best outcome for harbour users.
The Shute Harbour Restoration Project includes reconstruction and resilience works jointly funded by the Commonwealth and Queensland Government under the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements.
“This is a great example of state and local government working together to deliver benefits for Queenslanders,” Mr Bailey said
The Transport and Main Roads owned existing two lane public boat ramp in the harbour will remain operational.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Andrew Willcox said Council was excited to again be partnering with the Queensland Government on yet another vital infrastructure project for the region.
“It’s another important piece of the Shute Harbour Restoration and will provide a great balance of recreational and commercial use at that facility once completed,” he said.
“The Whitsundays is a haven for boaties so this new multi-lane boat ramp ticks all the boxes in adding to the region’s liveability for our 35,500 residents.”
The Queensland Government commitment to improve boating facilities at Shute Harbour is part of the $30 million Marine Infrastructure Fund.