Applications open for grants

The call has gone out today for applications from councils, boating clubs and community groups for boating infrastructure projects under the Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) Better Boating Program (BBP).

RMS Maritime Acting Director Michael Wright said the BBP makes available up to $5 million per year for waterways infrastructure projects which benefit the general boating community across NSW.

"The 2013-14 grants are the fifth year of the program," Mr Wright said.

"To be eligible, projects need to meet essential criteria with planned infrastructure being of a lasting nature, available for use by a broad cross-section of the community and supported by the boating public, council and the community.

"Previous funding rounds have supported projects including boat ramps, public wharves, public pontoon facilities, dinghy storage and sewage pump-out facilities.

"BBP funding can be accessed to support new as well as upgraded facilities.

"Improved disability and public access as well as modern, practical and safety-oriented designs are particularly sought.

"These grants fund projects that benefit the general boating community across NSW, helping to deliver safe and convenient access to our waterways," Mr Wright said.

Since 1998 nearly $40 million in BBP grants has been provided to support more than 670 projects across the state.

In 2012-13, grant applications worth $4.89 million were approved under BBP for 71 projects including:
• Fifty-six projects in regional NSW worth more than $3.60 million
• Five boat ramp projects in Sydney Harbour worth more than $848,450
• Ten projects under the Sharing Sydney Harbour Access Program valued at $439,789

Applications will close on Friday August 2, 2013.

For more information on BBP: http://www.maritime.nsw.gov.au/mpd/infra_grants.html.