Budget provides Tourism funding for Fremantle

11/5/00
BUDGET PROVIDES TOURISM FUNDING FOR FREMANTLE
Fremantle's role as one of Western Australia's major tourist gateways will be strengthened through projects outlined in this year's State Budget.
Almost $24 million has been dedicated to the development of the Maritime Museum in 2000-2001.
Premier Richard Court said the $35 million project would showcase the State's rich maritime history and become a key tourist and educational facility.
Mr Court said another jewel in WA's tourism crown - Rottnest Island - was earmarked for further improvements this financial year with a $3 million allocation to the development of visitor facilities.
The island will also receive $500,000 for environmental and heritage projects.
"A further $2 million is being made available as part of the Government's ongoing efforts to renew the island's infrastructure and facilities," Mr Court said.
"It brings to $12 million the amount the Coalition Government has put into the island as part of its refurbishment."
Mr Court said improvements to cottages and other facilities on the island had been supported by the public, with a 10 per cent increase in visitor numbers in the six months to December last year.
Other spending measures outlined in this year's Budget include:

• $375,000 to upgrade ferry berths at Fremantle Harbour;
• $1.82 million for Coogee redevelopment implementation;
• a further $1.65 million to construct new buildings and additions to the South Metropolitan College of TAFE;
• a $1 million allocation to replace the large vessel Baudin;
• $820,000 to continue development of the Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour depot site wharf;
• $510,000 for new chillers at the WA Maritime Museum;
• $250,000 for restoration work at Fremantle Prison; and -
• $143,000 to advance the Centre of Professional Excellence.

Mr Court said the focus on tourism projects like the Fremantle Waterfront Museum would attract more people to Fremantle and revitalise Victoria Quay.
The new museum would house Australia II and the decommissioned submarine HMAS Ovens.
"The museum is just one example of the State Government's commitment to making real investments in Western Australia's future," he said.
"It is the kind of facility which will draw more people to Fremantle and, therefore, create greater job opportunities for Western Australians."
Media contact: Casey Cahill 9222 9475