In this section

Better boating sets sail at Finucane Island boat ramp

Published on Tuesday, 18 May 2021 at 2:44:14 PM

Construction of a new sea groyne wall as part of stage 1 works at the Finucane Island boat ramp is expected to start in late May, with a projected completion date of July 2021. 
 
In March 2021, Council accepted the tender from WA Limestone Pty Ltd for $1,694,962.94 to construct the groyne. 
 
The groyne will be 100 metres long and constructed 10 metres to the west of the existing ramp. The groyne is intended to deflect strong tidal currents that sweep across the ramp, aiding the safe launching of vessels and improving overall seafarer safety.
 
Stage 1 works are part of a total $4.5 million investment in the site, delivering on strong community sentiment uncovered in Annual Perception Surveys to upgrade Hedland’s seafarer infrastructure for the future. 
 
The groyne delivers on the Town’s Coastal Hazard Risk Management and Adaptation Plan (CHRMAP) objectives, which guides the Town in actively managing erosion, storm surges, and rising sea levels as a local government authority. 
 
Additional stage 1 works set to be completed in the medium term include constructing a 2.4 metre wide walkway, bollards, parking bays, kerbsides and barriers, light poles, waiting lines, resurfacing existing pavements, new disability access ramps and footpaths. 
 
Mayor Peter Carter welcomed the announcement of the start of construction at the site.
 
“The Town is delivering better boating for Hedland’s future, with the construction of a new sea groyne wall at the Finucane Island boat ramp expected to start in late May.
 
“With 67 boats for every 1,000 residents in Hedland, there’s strong sentiment in support for Town investments which bolster seafarer infrastructure. 
 
“The groyne will serve as a protective barrier between the elements of the ocean and the users of the ramp, helping to prevent tidal surges sweeping over and disrupting ramp use.

“Another benefit of the groyne will be a projected reduction in rapid sand sediment accumulation on the ramp, which is currently an issue that impacts the retrieval of vessels.
 
“I look forward to the construction of the groyne taking shape over the coming months.”
 
Important Safety Information:
 
The Finucane Island boat ramp will remain open to the public during construction works for the sea groyne. However, please exercise caution in the area, be mindful of workers and heavy machinery and obey signage. In addition, trucks will be in transit at regular intervals to deliver approximately 30,000 tonnes of rocks on site, impacting travel times. 

For media information:
Laura Hawes
Manager Corporate Affairs
(08) 9158 9365 | lhawes@porthedland.wa.gov.au

Back to All News