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.
DTMI 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 State Government is absolutely committed to delivering the project and the 2025-26 State Budget included an initial $3.6 million for DTMI to progress with critical heritage and environmental approvals which for this type of development are extensive, and to support further planning and design.
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 preferred site and concept for the new development is safer and provides vastly improved conditions for launching vessels and universal access for loading passengers with sheltered water, separate areas for recreational users from commercial operators.
The development of a new boating facility at Tantabiddi will provide significant economic and social benefits to the local community and the State at a strategically important location to the Exmouth tourism industry.
The concept for the new facility features:
- A four to six lane boat ramp facility
- Up to 42 floating commercial boat pens with universal access for passenger transfer.
- 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 due to sediment build-up at the mouth of Tantabiddi Creek following heavy rain.
DTMI has 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
