NEWS - Boost for NSW Better Boating grants

NSW Maritime’s Better Boating Program has received a major injection of funds from the State Government for recreational boating infrastructure projects.

NSW Ports and Waterways Minister, Joe Tripodi said $5 million has been provided in the 2009-10 Better Boating Program and from today applicants are invited to put forward projects they think may qualify.

“Boating clubs, community groups, councils and other organisations will be able to apply for Better Boating grants worth $25 million over the next five years,” Tripodi said.

“That’s an increase of $2 million a year on previous funding programs for facilities such as boat ramps, public wharves, jetties, sewage pump-out facilities and public moorings,” he said.

Tripodi said to be eligible for funding, projects must be available for use by a broad cross-section of the boating public, and their infrastructure must also be of a lasting nature and have the support of local councils and the community.

“The State Government supports this increase in grant funding which in turn provides support to the marine sector and the estimated 1.5 million people who use our waterways,” said Tripodi.

“Over the last 12 months the number of boat licence holders in NSW has increased by 4½ per cent to over 470,000. Boating is a big part of the NSW lifestyle and these Better Boating grants reflect that,” he said.

The Minister said since 1998-99, NSW Maritime had provided funding for more than 400 recreational boating infrastructure projects worth almost $20 million.

The Better Boating Program replaces NSW Maritime’s previous funding programs — including the Maritime Infrastructure Program.

Applications for grants close on Friday, July 31, 2009.

For more information, visit www.maritime.nsw.gov.au/cv/infra_grants.html