Marina development the ‘best in the state’

A marina is being transformed from a “wreck” into Tasmania’s newest state-ofthe-art boating complex, both on land and in the water.

Margate Marina consultant Philip Brown said the second stage of a $20 million upgrade was recently completed, with 133 berths constructed so far towards the final target of 300.

He said new additions, including CCTV gated access, floating pontoons and dual diesel and unleaded fuel facilities, made the marina unique in Tasmania.

“We are the only marina in the state with dedicated berths for super yachts up to about 40m long,” he said.

He said boaters were “gobsmacked” by the site’s transformation, which included plans to eventually include a hotel complex, retail village and conference centre.

He said the early take-up of around 80 per cent occupancy had indicated strong acceptance and interest from the community.

The development was privately funded by Fenshaw, Snowburr and other familyrelated entities.

Margate Marina co-owner and Fenshaw representative Robert Chedid said the development now included a highly advanced floating breakwater and would soon boast a pump-out facility.

He said he was pleased the “large, well-informed and close-knit” Tasmanian boating community was supporting the development.

“Tasmania has one of Australia’s highest rates of boat ownership, and boating is an entrenched part of our lifestyle,” he said.

“Having ready access to the marina from Hobart and surrounds is a big plus for the boating community, as is the marina’s access to great fishing and the channel.”

He said the new “Gateway Marina Village” would offer “hundreds” of sustainable marine, tourism and hospitality job opportunities. Mr Brown said mostly private boat owners were accessing the marina, including Sydney to Hobart racing yachts, with some leisure craft and commercial boats taking berths.

He said he hoped more people who “love their boats and love the water” would enjoy the new facilities, which would include a café, member’s clubhouse and a marine trade precinct with extensive boater supplies, to make Margate Marina “probably the best resourced marina in Tasmania”.

“The office is open seven days, so we welcome visitors to come down and have a look,” he said.