Upgrades for Tantabiddi ramp

A popular boat ramp in Exmouth has received funding for upgrades to cater for increased growth in boating and tourism. The Tantabiddi boat ramp has received $1.3 million from the State Government as part of the WA Recovery Plan focused on getting industry back on its feet and accelerating jobs and projects across the State after COVID-19. The money is set to go towards the research and planning of the boat ramp’s redevelopment and ultimately produce a final concept plan. It comes as West Australians have recently been holidaying in Exmouth in record numbers, with Shire of Exmouth president Matthew Niikkula saying last month was the busiest July on record. The boat ramp operates at capacity and will require more launching lanes in future years to manage forecast growth in boating and tourism. Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said the project would achieve much-needed outcomes after COVID-19 including improving tourism facilities for the community. “Our planning work for the Tantabiddi boat ramp will progress the long-term vision to increase capacity for boats,” Ms Saffioti said. “As a major gateway to the world-renowned Ningaloo Reef, there are a lot of exciting opportunities for locals and tourists once this facility is in place.”