Regional locations are the big winners in the allocation of $1.5 million in State Government funding to improve recreational boating facilities throughout Western Australia.
Round 26 of the Recreational Boating Facilities Scheme, managed by the Department of Transport (DoT), has seen six projects allocated funding to upgrade, replace or plan facilities to meet the growing demand from the increasing number of WA boat owners.
The Shire of Ashburton received the largest allocation with a $606,798 grant to build a new boat ramp and floating finger jetty at the Onslow Community Boating Precinct while the Shire of Murray secured $456,786 to extend the boat ramp and replace one of the timber platforms with a floating jetty at the South Yunderup, Batavia Quays boat launching facility.
Boating facility managers can apply to DoT for grants up to 75 per cent of the estimated project cost, with the maximum amount limited to $750,000.
Applications can be made for the planning, construction or upgrade of boat launching ramps, jetties, moorings and new channels that are directly related to a public boating facility.
Eligible land-based infrastructure at public boating facilities include trailer parking, toilets, fish cleaning stations, lighting and signage.
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
"For several decades the Recreational Boating Facility Scheme has been hugely successful in helping to meet constantly growing demand by partnering with local governments and others to deliver improved recreational boating facilities throughout WA.
"Boating is an increasingly popular recreational activity and the scheme, introduced in 1998,
allows boat owners to directly contribute as it is partly funded from boat registration fees.
"I look forward to seeing these facilities being constructed and enjoyed by the local communities."
