Local fishermen, divers and tourism operators can now benefit from a new boat ramp and jetty at Canal Rocks, near Yallingup, after the McGowan Government today announced that the popular site is open to the public.
The $1.6 million project included the removal of the old boat ramp, with the construction of a new boat ramp and jetty providing a safer alignment for the launching and retrieving of vessels within the Ngari Capes Marine Park in Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park.
The construction of the boat ramp and jetty was supported by the Department of Transport with $750,000 awarded through the Recreational Boating Facilities Scheme grant, with additional funding from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA).
Traditional owners were engaged during the design and construction phases of this project, ensuring cultural and heritage protection for the site.
Perth-based company Advanteering Civil Engineers was awarded the tender in October 2020 for the construction of the new boat ramp and jetty, which is wheelchair accessible.
Local Bunbury group, WML Engineering Consultants was engaged to undertake and provide engineering solutions to this complex site which is subject to large swells and associated surges within the boat ramp area.
Additional funding was provided by DBCA to increase car parking facilities at the site and to reseal and re-mark the deteriorated car park surface.
As stated by Environment Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson:
"Canal Rocks is an important facility for both recreational users and tourism operators and these upgrades allow people to enjoy the site with greater safety.
"It's wonderful to see Western Australian businesses carrying out these important works, which contributed to generating local jobs and boosted the local economy.
"These upgrades address safety concerns previously raised by emergency services and other users of the old facility."
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
"Our Government is committed to providing safe and reliable infrastructure for Western Australia's boating community through the Recreational Boating Facilities Scheme.
"Given the popularity of the Canal Rocks site with locals and tourists alike, I'm pleased we have been able to support the construction of a new boat ramp and jetty.
"These upgrades will allow for safer landings and departures, and provide the local Volunteer Marine Rescue with a safer option to carry out rescues in an isolated area."
Environment Minister's office - 6552 5900
