The state government has awarded the contract to upgrade the O’Sullivan Beach boat ramp, delivering on an election commitment.

Maritime Constructions Pty Ltd has been awarded the contract for design and construction to improve the operational use of the site by reducing congestion during peak periods and improving access and safety for launching boats.

The project will involve replacing and upgrading the current four-lane boat ramp launching facility, inclusive of the two existing pontoons and pontoon guide piles, and constructing an additional boat ramp lane and pontoon.

Other improvements include widening the vehicle manoeuvring area, access improvements for people living with a disability, replacing the upper sections of the concrete ramps and undertaking protection works to extend the structural integrity and serviceable life of the facility.

Major works are expected to start on-site next month, to ensure there will be no impact to peak summer recreational season activities. 

To enable works to be completed safely and as quickly as possible, the O’Sullivan Beach Boat Ramp and main carpark will be closed for recreational use for the entire project. 

Boat ramp access will be maintained for emergency services if required.

Alternative launch points will be available at the West Beach Boat Ramp and Port Noarlunga Beach Ramp.

The project is expected to be completed late in 2023 and has been welcomed by local community groups, which have been campaigning for an upgrade for several years.

Infrastructure Minister Tom Koutsantonis says the ramp is an important part of the state’s marine infrastructure that is popular with recreational boat users, as well as an important facility for emergency services to launch and retrieve vessels.  

“Built in 1983, the facility has not kept pace with the burgeoning population growth in the local area, and fishers, sailors and coastal safety organisations have been calling for the ageing boat ramp to be upgraded to cope with this increase in demand.

“Previous funding for the planned O’Sullivan Beach Boat Ramp Upgrade fell far short of what was needed, which is why the South Australian Government made an election commitment to invest an additional $1 million to ensure the facility is made safe and accessible. 

“This contract award is the first step towards delivering on that commitment, and I look forward to works getting underway.”