The Liberal-National Government will invest $35million in a new boating facility in Broome as part of the State Government's $68million Budget allocation to enhance Western Australia's recreational boating facilities over the next four years.
Transport Minister Simon O'Brien and Regional Development Minister Brendon Grylls said Broome residents would benefit from an initial $5million investment in 2010-11 and a further $30million in the following two years as part of a Royalties for Regions allocation.
Mr O'Brien said the boating community in Broome had been calling for this for some time. A working group would be established involving the Yawuru traditional owners, the Broome Shire and the Broome Port Authority to determine the most appropriate location and design.
Site investigations, approvals, detailed design and management arrangements would be addressed in 2010-11 with construction planned to start in the following years.
"The Liberal-National Government is pleased to deliver these enhanced facilities for the people of Broome," Mr O'Brien said.
"When complete, this facility will be a major improvement in operating safety and efficiency for small to medium-sized vessels."
The Broome facility is proposed for west Roebuck Bay and may include boat ramps in a sheltered harbour environment and a floating jetty to permit berthing by medium-size, non-trailered vessels.
Regional Development Minister Brendon Grylls said Broome and the Kimberley were home to some remarkable coastline and new facilities would allow boat users to enjoy this attractive environment more often.
"Creating the right facilities for this coastline is a challenge but the aim is to alleviate some of the problems faced in launching and retrieving boats," Mr Grylls said.
"The State Government plans to meet the growing demand for new boating facilities and to continue improving the existing infrastructure in Broome and the Kimberley."
WA Budget statements are available at http://www.ourstatebudget.wa.gov.au
Office of the Minister for Transport: 9213 6400
Office of the Minister for Regional Development: 9213 7000
