The current Tantabiddi boat ramp. The new site is located 300m south. Picture: WA Government
THE WA Government has unveiled a sneak peek at a proposed boat launch facility for visitors to Ningaloo Reef.
The site of a new four-ramp facility at Tantabiddi is about 300 metres south of an existing facility and which the WA Government says it spent $1.3 million to locate.
WA Premier Roger Cook says the new facility is a major milestone which will ensure future generations can enjoy Exmouth Shire’s coastline.
“Engagement has been an important part of the project’s progress to date with a strong working relationship forged with the traditional owners of the site,” he says.
“My government is committed to developing quality infrastructure in regional WA, to diversify local economies and build better regions.”
The current two-ramp facility operates at full capacity during peak times and is a source of tension between recreational users and tourism operators, the government says.
The boat ramp is at the mouth of Tantabiddi Creek and launches can be restricted due to sand and sediment build-up caused by heavy rains and flooding.
WA Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti predicted more separation between the users.
“There will be more sheltered water and clear separation of recreational boat users and commercial operators, plus the distance from Tantabiddi Creek mouth reduces the risk of future closures due to silting from flooding caused by cyclone and rain events,” she says.
“If approved the development will likely be staged, growing as demand increases from an initial four-lane ramp and floating passenger loading jetty with universal access for commercial operators, to a larger six-ramp facility with up to 40 commercial boat pens.”
Minister Assisting the Transport Minister David Michael says talks are ongoing about the operation of the facility.
“I am confident this project will continue to move ahead and is in good hands,” he says.
PROJECT DETAILS
Stage one of the project’s recreational zone will involve a new four-lane boat ramp, public jetty and fishing platform, 160-car and trailer parking bays, general car parking and toilets.
In the commercial zone, there will be a jetty, dedicated parking bays, a passenger transfer jetty, bus bays with dedicated parking, shelters, seating and footpaths.
In stage two, the recreational zone will get two extra boat ramps, extra commercial boat pens and 240-bay car parking.
The site also features a Tantabiddi midden.
