The Spoilbank Marina project in Port Hedland will achieve an important milestone this month, with the public boat ramp facility to open at 6am on 20 January 2024.
The opening will give the Port Hedland community and visitors access to a new four-lane boat ramp and substantial car park area for recreational boat owners to use.
The Spoilbank Marina boat ramp will initially be available for use daily between 6am and 6pm. The Richardson Street boat ramp will remain open for use 24 hours a day.
The $187.5 million Spoilbank Marina project is a key election commitment from the WA Labor Government. It is funded by the State Government, Town of Port Hedland and BHP, and is being delivered by Pilbara Ports.
The boat pens and fishing jetty at the marina will be the next stage to be completed and are expected to be opened mid-2024.
Civil and landscaping construction is well progressed and will continue until late-2024, when the marina is expected to be fully opened. This final stage will bring the marina vision to life, providing a vibrant foreshore area for locals and visitors to gather.
The Department of Transport is set to take over operation of the Spoilbank Marina when the boat pens are operationally ready.
Further information about the Spoilbank Marina project is available on Pilbara Ports website.
Comments attributed to Ports Minister David Michael:
"The Spoilbank Marina is a long-held dream of the Hedland community and I'm proud the WA Government is delivering on its commitment to build this fantastic new amenity.
"The four-lane boat ramp is accessible at all tides and will alleviate demand on existing boat launch facilities. It will also improve safety for recreational boaters by providing access to a new navigational channel separate from Port Hedland's main shipping channel.
"This project continues to boost the Pilbara economy, with local businesses and contractors benefiting from the Port Hedland waterfront transformation."
Comments attributed to Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel:
"I am delighted the boat ramp will open in the New Year. This is a major milestone for not only the project, but the Hedland community, which has eagerly awaited these new facilities.
"The marina boat ramp and navigational channel will greatly improve the recreational boating experience in Hedland and provide a safer way for the community to enjoy being out on the water."