Gold Coast Boaties Benefit from Budget Commitment to Dredging
Posted by editor (editor) on Jun 30 2009
2009 >>

Broadwater MP Peta-Kaye Croft and Southport MP Peter Lawlor have welcomed the Queensland Government's $2.4 million commitment for dredging projects on the Gold Coast in this year's State Budget.

Transport Minister Rachel Nolan said Gold Coast residents and tourists alike will benefit from the funding.

"Dredging projects this financial year across the Gold Coast region will improve access for recreational craft and increase the usability of our rivers and the Broadwater," Ms Nolan said.

"Dredging projects this finacial year across the Gold Coast region will improve access for recreational craft and increase the usability of our rivers and the Broadwater," Ms Nolan said.

"This is another example of the Bligh Government continuing to deliver for the people of the Gold Coast and is testimony to the hard work that is being done by the local members of this area."

Ms Croft said the project to receive funding including dredging of channels at Jacobs Well and Canaipa Passage plus maintenance dredging at several places where siltation has occured in The Broadwater.

"The Queensland Government is currently negotiating a partnership with the Gold Coast City Council for a jointly funded annual program of marine infrastructure and foreshore works in Gold Coast waters from 09/10 onward," Ms Croft said.

"I believe this approach is the best way to address community concerns about the need for a waterways authority. State and council, working in partnership with industry, will provide the sort of coordination that is required to manage community demand for access to Gold Coast waterways and foreshores."

Mr Lawlor said the Queensland Government was also committing $1 million to the operation of the Gold Coast Seaway.

"This will see continued operation of the sand bypass system which keeps that Gold Coast Seaway open to navigation" he said.

"A further $1.6 will be invested in other Gold Coast boating facilities, including a pontoon at the Southport Pier project on The Broadwater, a pontoon at Cavil Avenue in the Nerang River, reconstruction of the boat ramp at Cabbage tree Point, and floating walkways at Paradise Point and in Tallebudgera Creek.

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