The state government has provided additional financial assistance to the operator of a heavy boat lifter facility in Geraldton, bringing to $1.128 million its total assistance.
Mid-West Minister Kim Chance today presented Geraldton Boat Lifters Limited with a $278,000 cheque.
It was the third instalment of State funding and brings the total provided to date to $1.128million.
The Government has made a total commitment of $1.5 million through the Mid West Development Commission, which has strongly supported the project.
Mr Chance said the economic benefits created by the 200 tonne heavy boat lifter would be enormous for the region.
"The facility has the potential to create 180 jobs in the short term and in 10 years, it is expected to generate more than 600 direct and indirect jobs," he said.
A heavy boat lifter has not existed in Geraldton since 1998, when the former State Government made the decision to close the existing slipway.
It would be used to lift boats that are in excess of 6.8m in width and weighing between 80 and 200 tonnes.
The Minister said the heavy boat lifter would be capable of lifting large vessels used for trawl fishing, tuna fishing, tourist charters, oil and gas service tenders and twin hulled recreational craft.
"A marine services precinct incorporating the lifter would save the local industry the significant cost of a two-way voyage to Perth for maintenance and reduce the costs for vessels from the North-West, which would normally have to travel to Perth."
The Minister thanked the Geraldton Port Authority for continuing to work with State and Federal agencies to bring the project to fruition.
