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Tantabiddi Boating Facility

The Department of Transport (DoT) is leading a project to upgrade and relocate the boating facility at Tantabiddi to provide a safer access point to the unique tourism and recreational experiences at the World Heritage Listed Ningaloo Reef. 

This project aims to develop a coastal asset of regional significance providing a modern tourism hub that will enrich the experience of visitors as well as meet current and future demand from the recreational and commercial boating sectors.

Project background

The Tantabiddi Boat Ramp is managed by the Shire of Exmouth and is a critical access point to the Ningaloo Reef for recreational vessels and tourism operators, such as fishing and diving charters, as well as glass bottom boat, whale shark, and humpback whale tours. 

Currently, the small two ramp facility is operating at capacity during peak times, creating competition between recreational users and tourism operators for access to the facility.

The boat ramp is located at the mouth of Tantabiddi Creek. At times, boat launching from the boat ramp is restricted due to sand and sediment build-up caused by heavy rains and flooding.

On the request of the Shire of Exmouth, DoT established the Tantabiddi Taskforce to consider options to address these issues and provide direction to manage and develop the facility.

Led by DoT the Tantabiddi Taskforce includes representatives from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, the Shire of Exmouth, Tourism WA, and the Gascoyne Development Commission.

Project status

The Tantabiddi Taskforce considered several locations for a new facility before endorsing a concept layout plan and preferred site approximately 300 metres south of the existing boating facility. This has been informed by a $1.3 million planning program of extensive investigations funded as part of the State Government’s $5.5 billion WA Recovery Plan. 

DoT coordinated and finalised this planning program of investigations which included:

  • coastal processes and sediment modelling
  • engineering studies and investigations
  • geotechnical investigations
  • cultural heritage engagement and surveys
  • environmental surveys.

The proposed facility will be a key addition to the region, designed to cater to both current and future needs of the recreational and commercial boating sectors. The concept for the new facility features: 

  • An initial four lane ramp expanding over staged delivery to a larger six ramp facility.
  • Floating passenger transfer jetty with universal access for commercial operators with the option for future expansion to 40 commercial boat pens.
  • Universal accessibility, designed to accommodate all users, ensuring safe and comfortable use for everyone.
  • Increased sheltered water and clear separation of recreational boat users and commercial operators.
  • Reduced risk of facility closure caused by silting from cyclone and rain events due to the distance from the mouth of the Tantabiddi Creek.

DoT have referred the proposal to the Western Australia Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) and the Federal Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) for environmental assessment.  The referral information can be found at the WA EPA website Tantabiddi Boating Facility | EPA Western Australia or DCCEEW’s Public Portal: Referral summary · EPBC Act Public Portal

Stakeholder consultation

DoT has been engaging with the Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Advisory Committee (NCWHAC) and the Nganhurra Thanardi Garrbu Aboriginal Corporation (NTGAC). 

Both NCWHAC and NGTAC will continue to be key stakeholders, informing and guiding the project. 

DoT has also engaged in consultation with commercial, recreational, and community groups. 

Consultation will continue through the environmental approval process and detailed design phase.

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