Qld boaties get a boost

Queensland boaties will benefit from much-needed boat ramp upgrades and walkways after the Government announced the latest round of marine infrastructure projects to be delivered in 2016.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson (pictured) said the projects were part of the Queensland Government’s $50 million Marine Infrastructure Fund.

"More and more Queenslanders are heading out to enjoy our stunning creeks, rivers and waterways, so we need to make sure our facilities can handle the increase in users," Emerson said.

"We have a strong plan to deliver better infrastructure – and we’re committed to supporting the state’s tourism and marine economies.

"In the past two and a half years, 42 projects have been finished and are being enjoyed by the boating and angling community, with 20 more projects in the planning, design or construction phases.

"Couple these with the final four projects announced today, and it brings the total to 66 new and upgraded marine facilities funded across Queensland."

Emerson said that works will be delivered in conjunction with councils and are due to start this year.

Projects in this final round include:
>> A new two-lane boat ramp and floating walkway at Twin Waters, on Nojoor Road in the Maroochy River (pictured)
>> Upgrading the Ocean Creek boat ramp on Peggy Bog Road, Airdmillan
>> Widening of the Nerimbera boat ramp in the Fitzroy River from two to four lanes
>> Widening of the Coorooman Creek boat ramp at Zilzie from two to four lanes

Member for Lytton Neil Symes said boaters and anglers at Manly Boat Harbour, one of the busiest harbours in Australia, were already benefiting from projects delivered by the fund.

"In December the $1.5 million northern breakwater extension was completed and holiday boaties have been enjoying smoother, safer sailing as a result," Symes said.

"The existing breakwater was raised and extended by 113 metres to provide boaters with better protection from wind and waves, especially from the north.

"This upgrade complements the previous installation of two new floating walkways on the two public boat ramps and widening of the entrance channel completed in 2014."