Boat ramps stay closed for safety

THREE boat ramps remain closed following February’s major floods.

Transport and Main Roads is awaiting results of surveys to determine when it will be safe to reopen the Loam Island boat ramp at Rasmussen.

“The hydrographic survey has been completed, (and) the assessment of the survey results is planned to take place over the coming week. This will determine if the seabed area is clear of debris and safe to reopen,” a TMR spokeswoman said.

“Safety is our priority. We have been working with Townsville City Council to assess flood-affected public boating infrastructure in the Ross River and surrounding area.

“It is crucial we are thorough with our assessments before reopening flood-affected public boating infrastructure.”

The spokeswoman said Townsville Recreational Boating Park and Barnicle St boat ramp had been cleared of debris and reopened.

She said repairs to the Balgal Beach boat ramp would start late this month, pending suitable tides. The ramp will remain closed until works are finished.

The Charters Towers Weir ramp is closed due to the road being closed by erosion and siltation.