Western Australians are being urged to visit WA's iconic boat harbour in Perth's northern suburbs, with a new walking trails initiative unveiled today.
Premier Mark McGowan and Transport Minister Rita Saffioti today visited Hillarys Boat Harbour to talk to local businesses, launch the walking trails and announce a $117 million maintenance contract for Western Australian maritime facilities.
The $117 million maintenance contract awarded to Broadspectrum (Australia) Pty Ltd will ensure ongoing maintenance on WA's 38 maritime facilities from Wyndham to Esperance.
Up to 117 local jobs, including 12 apprentices, will be supported over the life of the project, which is initially for six years and can be extended for another four years.
Local boat harbours support small businesses, including local retailers and hospitality venues, commercial fishing and tourism ventures, as well as encourage recreational activities.
The new walking trails, to be completed by the end of the month, will showcase three separate walks at the popular tourist destination, highlighting key attractions along the way.
The trails are designed to encourage families to visit these iconic destinations and support small businesses who have been doing it tough due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
As stated by Premier Mark McGowan:
"As a Rockingham local, I know how nice it is to be able to take the family down to the waterfront to enjoy some fish and chips in the sun.
"Our boat harbours, like Hillarys, are home to a number of small businesses, including retail, hospitality and tourism ventures, so it's important we do our bit to support them.
"Hillarys Boat Harbour is an iconic destination on our coastline. I urge Western Australians to support the local businesses who have been devastated as a result of COVID-19."
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
"The awarding of this major contract secures long-term employment in the marine sector for up to 117 Western Australians.
"Having worked with the Department of Transport to ensure the State's harbours, facilities and navigation aids are fit for purpose since 1995 under different agreements and arrangements, Broadspectrum has proven experience and is an established provider with offices throughout WA.
"This is a significant contract that will ensure we continue to have well maintained harbour facilities for our community to enjoy."
As stated by Kingsley MLA Jessica Stojkovski:
"Many Kingsley constituents love to pop down to Hillarys for a bite to eat, to launch the boat or do some shopping.
"These new walking trails show the very best our area has to offer and will be a great support to small business to encourage more families and tourists to visit the area."
