Following a $1.9 million upgrade by the Alexandrina Council, the Beacon 19 Boat Ramp near the Goolwa Barrage will be open to the public tomorrow, Saturday 2 September. 

The boat ramp is one of the main access points to the Coorong National Park and has been renovated to provide modern boating facilities and safer access to the Coorong and Lower Lakes for water users. 

The upgrade was funded by Alexandrina Council with support from the state government through a $650,000 Economic Stimulus funding program grant. 

Alexandrina Mayor Keith Parkes says the new facilities will enhance the reputation of Goolwa and surrounding areas as a premier boating destination. 

“The new, improved ramp will also encourage opportunities to link Beacon 19 with the natural attractions of the Coorong such as bird watching, bushwalking, kayaking and other water sports,” he says. 

“The facilities give visitors another reason to explore the Alexandrina region, and it assists our community to capitalise on regional tourism opportunities, such as leveraging educational and tourism tours associated with the Storm Boy feature film, South Australian Wooden Boat Festival, and boating events in the Lower Lakes.” 

Council Chief Executive Nigel Morris says upgrading the infrastructure was critical for community safety. 

“One of the main aims of this project was to make it easier for boat users to launch and retrieve their vessels in Goolwa,” he says. 

“The project involved the replacement of the existing wooden jetties with modern, longer structures to improve safety and navigation. 

“The lighting and signage will make the boating experience safer and more enjoyable for locals and visitors alike.”