The Queensland Government’s Boating Infrastructure Program (BIP) forms part of the Maritime Infrastructure Investment Program (MIIP), within the remit of Maritime Safety Queensland, part of Transport & Main Roads.
More information regarding this program, including Recreational Boating Facilities Demand Forecasting Studies which help identify demand and provides information regarding potential sites for development, can be found at www.msq.qld.gov.au/Boating-facilities/Boating-Infrastructure-Program. A new study is nearly complete and due for release in March 2023.
Boat ramps are a partnership between Maritime Safety Queensland and local Councils, with Council’s generally advocating for new or upgraded facilities where necessary. The Recreational Boating Facilities Demand Study is one tool Council’s use to consider options, together with their own investigations/planning such as Noosa Council’s Noosaville Foreshore Management Plan and other demands on public use of our foreshore and surrounding infrastructure. MSQ have a funding program available for the boat ramps, while local councils are responsible for the land infrastructure such as carparks and road access.
In January 2023, Noosa Council Mayor Clare Stewart, moved a Mayoral Minute relating to Noosa Shire boating facilities and you can read more about here.
We are all awaiting the latest study to be released, which Noosa Council staff will then consider and report back to the Mayor and Councilors in order for a decision to be made in relation to Noosa Council advocating for state funding for any extra or increased boating infrastructure and where it should be located.
Contact information for Noosa Council’s Mayor and Councilors can be found at www.noosa.qld.gov.au/about-council/councillors-meetings/mayor-and-councillorshttps://www.noosa.qld.gov.au