Melville Bay boat ramp windfall

A POPULAR Territory boat ramp has received the tick of approval for a $50,000 funding grant to cover costs

A POPULAR Territory boat ramp has received the tick of approval for a $50,000 funding grant to cover costs.

Primary Industries Minister Ken Vowles confirmed a NT Government funding grant would be offered to cover the insurance and maintenance costs for the Melville Bay boat ramp.

Minister for Primary Industry and Resources, Ken Vowles. Picture: ANDREA JOHNSTON

Mr Vowles said the boat ramp in Nhulunbuy continued to be one of the fishing community’s best assets in the NT.

“The Nhulunbuy Regional Sports Fishing Club has looked after the Melville Bay boat ramp for more than 30 years, cleaning, servicing and maintaining the facilities to an outstanding level for the Nhulunbuy community,” Mr Vowles said.

“Support funding from the NT Government has not increased for seven years, and the current arrangements are due to expire at the end of this month.

“Given an insurance cost increase of more than 17 per cent, and the need to include cover for volunteers, the cost of delivering this service for the community has increased over time.”

The NT Government has agreed to provide $52,615 over the next three years to ensure the facilities remain safe and well-maintained for the benefit of recreational and commercial fishers, tourist operators and the broader community. The government also recently announced tenders for work at Dinah Beach boat ramp and Shady Camp.