Local boaties will soon benefit from a $1 million upgrade of the popular Rocky Point public boat ramp in the far north with construction starting next week.  

Minister for Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports Mark Bailey said the upgrade would improve safety and make it easier for boaties to access the mouth of the Daintree River and nearby Snapper Island. 

“As part of the upgrade, existing facilities will be given a make-over, along with new features, such as a winch anchor point and mooring piles,” Mr Bailey said.

Member for Barron River Craig Crawford said the revamped boating facility would be a drawcard for tourists and locals, particularly those from the northern beaches, who use the Rocky Point ramp as the launch pad for fishing, boating and other recreational water pursuits.

“Works are expected to be completed in mid-July in time for the busy tourist season in the far north,” he said. 

Mr Crawford said the ramp will be reconstructed with a grooved, non-slip surface to provide better traction and drainage.

“There will also be sealed areas for rigging and de-rigging and a sealed turn-around section that will reduce the reversing distance by about 40 metres.

“Other new features include a winch anchor point and mooring piles to tether vessels being launched or retrieved.”

Mr Crawford said the upgrade would significantly reduce ramp maintenance costs over time.

“The current ramp dates back to 1988 and was due for a make-over.

“There has also been an ongoing challenge with sand accumulation due to the configuration of the ramp.

“To address this issue, an ‘armour’ rock barrier will be built on the northern side of the ramp.

“I thank local boaties and visitors for their patience while these works are being carried out. They will be the ultimate beneficiaries of better boating facilities at this popular boat ramp,” he said.