Media Releases 2012

New ramp a winner for ratepayers and boat users

3 Feb 2012

Wyong Shire Council’s construction of the newly completed Sunshine Reserve Boat Ramp has saved ratepayers more than $60,000. 

Council finished the ramp late last year, with the new ramp costing $36,000 in construction.

The original quote from contractors was more than $100,000 to provide a similar finish.

“The staff who carried out the works should be congratulated for a job well done,” Mayor Bob Graham said.

“Many locals have contacted Council saying how hard the staff were working despite heavy rainfall to get the job done on time and certainly well under budget.

“The finished result is a fantastic new ramp for locals and visitors to enjoy.

“We have ensured the ramp is much safer for all users and when we completed an audit of all boat ramps in the Shire a couple of years ago, this ramp was one that didn’t pass the test.

“However, the work completed by staff has transformed this unofficial ramp into one of the best in the Shire.”

The Sunshine Reserve Boat Ramp was created decades ago when a local decided to bulldoze a path into the nearby Ourimbah Creek.

Despite the ramp never being an official Council boat ramp, it showed up on UBD directories.

However, it was always a dangerous launching pad owing to the fact vehicles were forced to unload and load their boats on a slippery surface.

A concrete slab was placed above the water line and 11 reinforced concrete “planks”, manufactured at Council’s Long Jetty depot, were carefully placed below the water line and shackled together with stainless steel bolts to form the new ramp.

All the work was carried out with minimal impact to the environment.

Media Contact:  Cameron Bell (02) 4350 1667 or 0434 324 645