Batavia Coast Marina tender awarded for construction of new jetty, floating boat pens

The State Government has awarded the contract to construct floating boat pens at Batavia Coast Marina, as demand for Mid West marine tourism grows. SMC Marine Western Australia was awarded tender for the for the $3.3 million project where a new jetty will be constructed at the site to accommodate 34 more pens in the marina. There are 84 pens already at the site, bringing the total to 118. Assistant Transport Minister David Michael said the investment would help with increasing demand for marine tourism. “The Cook Government is investing in targeted multipurpose coastal infrastructure to meet growing demand for boat pens at the same time as boosting opportunities for growth in marine-based tourism along the Batavia Coast,” he said. “This project builds on an earlier investment at the Geraldton Port where the Mid West Ports Authority constructed a single berth, fixed-jetty structure. “Like the jetty at the port, the pen project provides tourism facilities specifically designed for easy loading and unloading of passengers, and will assist commercial operators as they work to increase visits to the pristine Houtman Abrolhos Islands National Park.” The State Government said the project was part of a plan to increase the capacity for Mid West tourism. Geraldton MLA Lara Dalton said it was important to support the local community. “This further investment will provide great access for local boat owners and will be a great boost to our tourism industry,” she said. “There is no doubt that Geraldton supports a strong boating community for residents and visitors alike. “Local businesses will also benefit through the construction phase of this project.” Work is set to begin on the site next month.