Call to ramp up tenders

The Canal Rocks boat ramp will finally be redeveloped after the WA Government released the tender on Tuesday.

The construction of the new ramp and jetty at the popular site is welcome news to local fisherman, emergency service volunteers and tourism operators who have long campaigned for the upgrade.

The present boat ramp has been operational since the 1970s and the thin “finger jetty” was at risk of closure due to safety concerns.

The new boat ramp will service recreational and commercial vessel operators, as well as the Naturaliste Volunteer Marine Rescue group. DBCA anticipates works to be completed by the end of the year, weather pending.

Environment Minister Stephen Dawson said community safety was the No.1 priority.

“I’m pleased we’ve been able to deliver an outcome that addresses safety concerns with the Canal Rocks boat ramp to ensure this vital facility remains open for all users, including volunteer marine rescue services,” he said.

Vasse MLA Libby Mettam said the redevelopment was a long time coming following a McGowan Government “backflip” on a decision to close the ramp.

“With so many visitors heading to the South West, it’s great to see this vital infrastructure project progressed. This has been a long time coming and follows the McGowan Government’s backflip on their original decision to close this boat ramp, as a result of persistent community pressure,” she said.

“I encourage local contractors to submit applications for the tender, which will provide jobs and help stimulate the local economy.”

South West MLC Colin Holt joined Ms Mettam in welcoming the upgrade and said the Nationals had used Royalties for Regions to inject an unprecedented level of investment into the Regional Recreational Boating Facilities Scheme.

“This is a win for local emer-gency services, fishers, boat owners, divers and tourism operators.”

Tender information can be viewed at tenders.wa.gov.au.