A new $1.2 million launch facility has opened on the Parramatta River in Rhodes.
NSW Maritime Executive Director Mark Hutchings said the facility at Uhrs Point Reserve on the western side of the Ryde Bridge will make it safer and easier to launch kayaks, canoes and other passive watercraft.
“Railings that had been used in the past to help put small craft in the water had rusted away, so it’s exciting we can unveil this new project and more people can use our beautiful waterways,” he said.
Transport for NSW provided $825,000 for the project under the NSW Government’s Boating Now program, while the City of Canada Bay contributed a further $400,000.
City of Canada Bay Mayor Angelo Tsirekas said he was pleased to open the new facility to the public.
“Thanks to funding from the NSW Government’s Boating Now program, this new passive craft launch facility is complete and ready to use,” Mayor Tsirekas said.
“It will improve the experience of boating along the picturesque Parramatta River for locals and visitors, and launching your kayaks, canoes, and other passive watercraft will now be easy and safe.”
The official opening took place at Uhrs Point Reserve in Rhodes on Saturday, 26 February at 2pm.
The opening coincided with the 100th anniversary of the 1st Yaralla Sea Scouts, who use the facilities at the reserve to educate young people on safe boating.
The DSA Dragon Boat Club will also benefit from the upgrade as they train and prepare for international competitions at the reserve’s facilities. They have previously used ladders propped up against the sea wall to launch and retrieve their boats.
For more information on the project visit bit.ly/uhrspointreserve
