Queenslanders will reel in more than $100 million in new marine infrastructure as part of the Palaszczuk Government’s latest budget.
Making the funding announcement today from Clump Point at Mission Beach, Assistant Treasurer Glenn Butcher said the Palaszczuk Government would build on its dedicated $30 million Marine Infrastructure Fund, with the number of boats registered across the state recently surpassing a quarter-of-a-million.
“People are hooked on boating in Queensland. That’s why we’re investing a record amount over the next four years to support the growing number of boaties and support the local businesses who benefit from the boost in tourism,” Mr Butcher said.
“It’s part of the Palaszczuk Government’s $14.5 billion, four-year roads and transport program for regional Queensland, which is creating more than 13,500 jobs.
Mr Butcher said the investment would build on major projects like the Clump Point upgrade, which recently received a $10.6 million boost for stage two of the upgrade.
“The Palaszczuk Government’s multi-million commitment will maintain, upgrade and build new boat ramps, pontoons and floating walkways right across Queensland as well as dredge key waterways to unlock greater access.
“In particular, our funding injection for Mission Beach is great news for the tourism industry and will ensure the new boat hub can cater for growing demand during peak periods with all-season access to the jetty structure and a shared recreational and commercial pontoon.
“This is about boosting infrastructure for boaties, boosting local economies, and adds to recently completed upgrades such as Grasstree Beach in Mackay and ongoing projects like the $2.1 million Stanage Bay Boat Ramp and $1.78 million Maryborough March Street jetty.”
Projects slated as part of the $100 million funding boost include:
- $5.5 million to build a boat ramp and floating walkway at Yorkeys Knob
- $4 million towards a barge ramp at the Scarborough Boat Harbour
- $3.2 million to extend the breakwater at the Bowen Boat Harbour
- $1.4 million for the Corbetts Landing boat ramp and floating walkway
- $1.3 million for the Cabbage Tree Creek Boat Ramp
