Broome anglers disappointed with ramp backflip

In massively disappointing news for the Broome fishing and boating community, the long-awaited Broome Boating Facility has been delayed indefinitely by the State Government.

Only a few weeks ago, the project was considered ready to progress to the design and construction phase following the release of a revised footprint and concept for the development.

However, Treasurer Troy Buswell recently announced funding was no longer available.

"Understandably people in Broome will be disappointed with the Government's decision to withdraw funding for the Broome Boat Harbour," he said. "While it has long been acknowledged that there is a need for improved boat launching facilities in Broome, difficult economic constraints, coupled with rapidly escalating project costs, meant the Government could not justify funding the Broome Boat Harbour at this time."

The Broome Shire Council subsequently voted unanimously to request a meeting with Mr Buswell for a delegation including the Broome Shire president and deputy Shire president, Shire chief executive and representatives of the Broome Fishing Club and Broome Port Authority.

Recfishwest believes a new boating facility in Broome is not only crucial for access for locals and visitors alike, but is also an important safety measure for boating anglers in the popular holiday town.

We will continue to present these views to the WA Government at every opportunity.

Dr Andrew Rowland is chief executive officer of Recfishwest.