In Queensland boat ramp facilities are managed in partnership with the State Government’s Maritime Safety Queensland and local Councils.
Boat ramp construction and maintenance (water based components) are the responsibility of the State Government. Local Councils are responsible for providing and maintaining car parking facilities (land-based components).
The issue
In the 2017 Queensland Recreational Boating Facilities Demand Forecasting Study upgrades of the Walkers Point boat ramp and parking facilities were identified as a Priority 1 (for immediate delivery) recommendation.
The recommended works included an upgrade to 45 car and trailer parking spaces and installation of a breakwater and a floating walkway to reduce tidal impacts and improve safe access for users of the ramp.
As at the beginning of 2023, residents were concerned that these recommendations were yet to be actioned and sought advice as to when the upgrades might take place.
Action
In February 2023 the WDRA launched a petition to the Queensland Parliament, supported by Member for Burnett, Mr Stephen Bennett MP, advocating for this work to be included in the 2023/24 budget.
More than 340 signatures were collected in support however, the tabled response from Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Mr Mark Bailey MP stated the possible upgrades to Walkers Point remained on the list of recreational priorities but were not included in the current budget.
Repairs have been made to both the ramps at Theodolite Creek and opposite the hotel (near First Avenue)