Rockhampton Boaties to benefit from $30 million infrastructure boost
Published on 22 September 2016
A new four lane boat ramp and floating walkway at Callaghan Park on the Fitzroy River in Rockhampton is part of a $30 million boost to more than 70 boat ramps across Queensland.
Member for Rockhampton and keen fisherman, Bill Byrne, announced the project today as part of the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to Queensland’s boating community.
“It gives further effect to policies supporting recreational fishing that have demonstrated very pleasing results, particularly in the Fitzroy,” Mr Byrne said.
“I will continue to work closely with Mayor Margaret Strelow and the councillors of the Rockhampton Regional Council to ensure further development of proposals for the Fitzroy that are aimed at promoting tourism and recreational fishing in this region.
“I am approached on nearly a daily basis by community members thoroughly supportive of this Government’s initiative in tourism and recreational fishing, and the inevitable economic benefits from investments like these.”
Main Roads and Ports Minister Mark Bailey said the Palaszczuk Government was investing more than $30 million in vital boating infrastructure upgrades over the next two years.
“Boaties across Queensland will benefit from new and upgraded boat ramps, floating walkways, pontoons and improved access to channels as part of this program,” Mr Bailey said.
“One in every 19 Queenslanders own a boat, and the popularity of recreational boating and fishing is continually increasing - it’s important that we keep up with this demand.
Mr Bailey said many of the projects were identified through the online recreational boating survey which received more than 1000 submissions.
Rockhampton Regional Council Infrastructure Committee Chair Tony Williams said it was fantastic news for the region and came on the back of Council adopting the Rockhampton Recreational Fishing Development Strategy.
“A fundamental part of this strategy is for vital infrastructure to be developed at key strategic points across the region,” Councillor Williams said.
“Implementing the strategy will lay the foundations for promoting the region as a recreational fishing hub and adventure tourism destination.
“A state-of-the-art ramp on the north side further opens up the mighty Fitzroy River, which is home to two major estuary sports fish in Australia; the iconic Barramundi and the King Threadfin.
“A boat ramp on the north side is also what people have told us they want.
“As part of the community engagement process for our fishing strategy, 85% of the 485 respondents indicated a boat ramp on the north side was their preference.”
Media Release supplied by:
Hon Bill Byrne MP
MEMBER FOR ROCKHAMPTON
Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services,Minister for Corrective Services