BUDGET SNUB: ‘The boat ramp’s a pie in the sky thing’
Disgruntled Midge Point residents say the lack of action is hampering the region’s tourism potential.
Mackay
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Midge Point residents are fed up over waiting for a new boat ramp and say the lack of action is hampering the region’s tourism potential.
Laminated design plans for a new ramp off Jimmys Rock Rd are posted on the door of the town’s Point Tavern.
It has been there since the Mackay Regional Council’s visit to discuss the project earlier this year; residents said it was a sore reminder of no progress.
“The boat ramp’s a pie in the sky thing,” Midge Point resident Steve Summers said.
“A lot of people would love to have a (new) boat ramp.
“To use the beach (ramp), you’ve got to have a tractor.”
Mr Summers said this was useless to tourists, residents and the Volunteer Marine Rescue.
“It’s not only fishing, it’s the actual Whitsundays (islands) out there,” he said.
“The caravan park in the peak period is usually full.
“The lack of a boat ramp is holding back the economic development of Midge Point.”
Fellow resident and keen angler Trevor Leo said people had resorted to borrowing their mates’ tractors to launch their boats.
“We used to have the Laguna Quays boat ramp but they cut it off,” Mr Leo said.
He said the VMR could use the private ramp, but it was only practical at high tide.
As residents waited for the new Jimmys Rock Rd boat ramp, they were making do with what currently existed.
The unofficial makeshift ramp at the end of a dirt road is made of rough concrete and pocketed with holes.
The Queensland Government has committed $3 million for a new ramp to be built but the council remains responsible for building the needed onshore facilities
Mackay Regional Council CEO Michael Thomson said this was not allocated for in the current budget or in its future works priorities lists.
Mr Thomson said the boat ramp had not been raised with council before being announced by the State Government.
“We’ve done some concept design work on building a road and car park and it is estimated to be more than $2.3 million,’’ Mr Thomson said.
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“Council is continuing to have discussions with Transport and Main Roads.
“We’re seeking additional funding for the land-based assets, particularly road corridor funding, to enable the unbudgeted project to go ahead.”
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This story was thanks to the My Town series – a Daily Mercury and Mackay Regional Council initiative.
Next up, reporter Melanie Whiting will visit Sarina on Tuesday, December 15 alongside Deputy Mayor Karen May.
Let us tell the stories that matter to you and if you think we should come to your town, send us an email to mackay@news.com.au
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