MP David Basham and Goolwa Jetty Builders help Port Elliot pontoon be made permanent

The fate of a pontoon in a popular beachside town has been sealed after an MP and local business floated an unexpected proposal.

The floating pontoon for kids to jump off has been returned to the water at Horseshoe Bay in Port Elliot. Picture: Dean Martin

A popular Horseshoe Bay pontoon will stay afloat year-round following months of bureaucratic uncertainty, after a local MP and business both promised to maintain the flotation device at no cost to taxpayers.

Alexandrina Council members unanimously voted in favour of the charitable offer on Monday, which will see Finniss MP David Basham personally cover annual costs in partnership with Goolwa Jetty Builders, who will provide volunteer maintenance.

The pontoon will be licensable by the Department of Infrastructure and Transport under the new plan.

Finniss MP David Basham. Picture: Supplied

The council removed the pontoon last year over concerns about cost and legality, with liability insurance requiring daily drone-led inspections, weekly inspections, and twice-yearly maintenance.

Belinda Sullivan from the Port Elliot Town and Foreshore Improvement Committee said initial estimates of returning the pontoon to the water were approximately $180,000 per year and beyond the council’s budget.

Kids enjoying the temporary pontoon at Horseshoe Bay in summer 2025. Picture: Dean Martin

Locals, Oliver Turner, 6, Riley Gray, 8, Khai Tinwell, 9, and Mason Turner, 7, in Port Elliot, were disappointed when the pontoon was removed last year. Picture: Matt Loxton

Public outcry led to the pontoon’s return over the summer, with the council hosting a workshop with community groups to work out long-term funding solutions.

Ms Sullivan suggested the local figures saved the pontoon to serve the community.

“They are very community-minded people and could see the need for someone with the skills and ability to do this.

“Everyone is really grateful to Goolwa Jetty Builders, David Basham, and the council for finding a way forward.”

Ms Sullivan said a permanent pontoon was “fantastic” for Port Elliot, offering safety and fun for holidaymakers and locals alike.

“It’s just a win-win for the community,” she said.

Originally published as MP David Basham and Goolwa Jetty Builders help Port Elliot pontoon be made permanent