Safer access planned to support Ningaloo Reef tourism operators

Detailed planning investigations have confirmed the site for an improved boat launching facility at Tantabiddi with the Tantabiddi Boat Ramp, managed by the Shire of Exmouth being a critical access point to the Ningaloo Reef for recreational vessels and tourism operators, such as fishing and diving charters, as well as glass bottom boat, whale shark, and humpback whale tours.

Currently, the small two ramp facility is operating at capacity during peak times, creating competition between recreational users and tourism operators for access to the facility.

The boat ramp is located at the mouth of Tantabiddi Creek. At times, boat launching from the boat ramp is restricted due to sand and sediment build-up caused by heavy rains and flooding.

The proposed facility for the at the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef will be a significant asset on the Coral Coast, providing a modern tourism hub that will enrich the experience of visitors and meet future demand from the recreational and commercial boating sectors.

The WA Government has invested $1.3 million on project investigations, which have confirmed the suitability of the preferred site approximately 300 metres south of the current community boating facility, on the western side of the North West Cape.

As a major stakeholder in the project, the Shire of Exmouth led a recent public consultation process with the wider community voicing strong support.

There has also been engagement with the World Heritage Committee, Traditional Custodians, commercial operators and local interest groups regarding the relocation of the launch ramp and the type of facility to be developed over several stages. This consultation also revealed widespread support for the project.

Project leader, the Department of Transport (DoT), will soon seek approval for the proposed development from the State and Commonwealth environmental regulators.

For more information about the project visit https://www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine/tantabiddi-boating-facility.asp(link is external)

WA Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti advised "there will be more sheltered water and clear separation of recreational boat users and commercial operators, plus the distance from the Tantabiddi Creek mouth reduces the risk of future closures due to silting from flooding caused by cyclone and rain events.

"If approved the development will likely be staged, growing as demand increases from an initial four-lane ramp and floating passenger loading jetty with universal access for commercial operators, to a larger six-ramp facility with up to 40 commercial boat pens.

"The development of a new boating facility at Tantabiddi will provide significant economic and social benefits to the local community and the State at a strategically important location to the Exmouth tourism industry."

Led by DoT the Tantabiddi Taskforce includes representatives from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, the Shire of Exmouth, Tourism WA, and the Gascoyne Development Commission.