Mackay’s Linked Group Services to build riverfront solar-powered boat

Beers, barbecues and a Pioneer River sunset may soon be on offer on a solar-powered ‘barbie boat’ as work on the waterfront public realm area begins.

A Mackay renewable energy business is on the cusp of lighting up the Pioneer River with a solar-powered ‘barbie boat’, the first of its kind for the region.

The emissions-free boat, designed by Linked Group Services, will be powered entirely by solar energy through an innovative roof design.

Managing director Jason Sharam said his team had the design and materials in place to begin work on the prototype and fabrication would begin within two weeks.

“Within a month, I think we’ll have it on the water as a prototype,” he said.

Barbie boats, usually run on petrol, cruise on calm waters and offer people space to relax, fish and cook up a barbecue amid sweeping river views.

An aerial view of the Pioneer River. Picture: Rae Wilson

“We’re developing the same product, but the roof is made out of solar panels,” Mr Sharam said.

“Enough energy to run the battery and the motor.”

The Linked Group boat will hold six-to-eight people and cruise at a gentle four-to-six knots.

“Just enough to enjoy the river,” Mr Sharam said.

An artist’s sketch of the prototype has not been commissioned.

Mr Sharam said he envisaged putting in three or four of the boats and making them available to tourists to cruise up and down the Pioneer.

Linked Group Services managing director Jason Sharam.

Mr Sharam’s innovative dream fits with the general ambition of the council to embed solar power into its waterfront redevelopment plans.

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson has confirmed the council intends to light up the proposed walkway and pontoon with solar power.

“Our intent is to have a lot more lighting in this first public realm component that we’re doing,” he said.

“It’s our intent to have it driven by solar power.

“But of course you’ve got to have battery systems backing up all of that as well.

“When the pontoon goes in, the intent of course is to have it well lit and our intent always on new buildings, on new council facilities, is to have solar.”

Mayor Williamson also singled out Linked Group for praise.

“Linked Group is one of Mackay’s leading providers of solar energy, and not just solar energy, green energy in its entirety,” he said.

“We’re very proud of Linked Group and what they are doing in Mackay.”

The first stage of public realm works on the waterfront is expected to begin next week.