Queensland to tip $35m into Gold Coast waterways
Massive public spending program will prime the Gold Coast for more water-based tourism, including superyachtsQueensland will spend more than $35 million improving Gold Coast waterways over the next four years including $5.5 million to dredge the Seaway and its channels.
The government hopes the spending, which will also see big improvements at boat ramps, will also create more than 100 jobs – no mention was made of what they were – in the region as it opens up access to larger superyachts.
The money, announced yesterday, will be spent as part of the Palaszczuk Government’s COVID-19 economic recovery program, and as an attempt to boost the $4.7 billion Gold Coast tourism economy.
Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the works would benefit the Gold Coast’s marine industries, including those ones hoping to attract superyachts to the region.
“Over the coming months, the Gold Coast Waterways Authority will be awarding tenders for major works including Main Channel dredging and upgrades to the sand bypass system at The Spit,” Bailey said.
“I’d encourage local companies to bid the work, create more jobs for Gold Coasters and help play a role in unlocking better access for boaties across the Gold Coast where we’re seeing growth in population and boating registrations.”
Boat ramp improvements
As well as the channel work, $2.3 million will be spent widening the boat lanes at the often overcrowded Jacobs Well ramp so that more boats can launch at the same time.
The site’s aged jetty also will be replaced with a reinforced concrete one. The upgrade is expected to be completed by the middle of next year.
The new works come on the back of other projects in the region that have included dredging the Coomera River, a new pontoon at Alberton, West Crab Island and South Wave Break Island channel dredging.
It has also carried out remedial work on the sand bypass system jetty.
"We’re investing in boat ramp and pontoon upgrades to help more people get out onto the water and enjoy everything our waterways city has to offer,” Gold Coast Waterways Authority acting chief executive Jessica Bourner said.
"In the COVID world, people are looking for safe ways to be outside and enjoy themselves and improving access to our waterways network is helping them do that.
"It doesn’t matter if it’s a kayak, a tinny or a superyacht, we want to open up the waterways for everyone to enjoy."
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