The final stage of construction of the new Augusta Boat Harbour will begin in earnest in January following the award of key contracts.
Transport Minister Troy Buswell said a $3million maritime structures contract to national company Swan Marine Construction, would deliver commercial and charter boat pens, a 50 metre service wharf, a four lane boat launching facility and provide safe navigation with the installation of key markers.
“ This latest stage of the $34.6million project represents another major step towards delivery a much needed sheltered anchorage for recreational and commercial vessels between Busselton and Albany, ” he said.
“ The contractors will commence work on site after Christmas and the facility is expected to be operational in September.”
The protected harbour was created this year with the completion of two breakwaters as part of a separate $17million contract awarded in July 2012.
Fully serviced land development lots are also planned for the facility along with ablutions and a landscaped jetty promenade area.
Regional Development Minister Terry Redman said the harbour was expected to grow tourism and commercial development in the region.
“ The project timing could not be better with the number of whale watching charter operators increasing from one to three this year and the planned expansion of an abalone aquaculture business in Flinders Bay, ” Mr Redman said.
“ The harbour will have flow-on benefits to the Augusta community from the servicing and maintenance of the existing commercial fleet of vessels as well as a new anticipated recreational boat fleet.”
[mappress]
Press Release, December 30, 2013