Berthing rates to be slashed

The Department of Transport has assured Albany Waterfront Marina users that casual berthing rates will be slashed next financial year.

This is after the Albany Advertiser revealed they were the most expensive in WA.

DoT general manager of coastal infrastructure Steve Jenkins said the proposed fee changes – which will account for a 33 per cent reduction in casual berthing rates – would come into effect on July 1.

“DoT cannot arbitrarily vary the fees because they are contained within the Jetties Regulations,” he said.

“Amendments to the regulations follow a set process and must be approved through Government’s executive council before being implemented.”

Many visiting boaties and some permanent pen holders claim visitors are being driven off by the berthing price, which at $7.52 per metre of vessel per day, is the most expensive in WA.

Visiting yachties Kerry and Linda McGorlick, who were forced to leave Albany last week because of the high prices, claimed a lack of services provided at the facility did not reflect the steep rates and were stopping more people from visiting Albany.

The couple’s main gripes included no single-sex toilets, no fuelling dock and no loading trolleys.

The department conceded only 23 vessels had made casual use of the marina since January 1 this year and revealed plans to establish a fuel service were now underway.

“DoT is currently liaising with a potential fuel supplier for the establishment of fuelling facilities at the marina, following the calling for public expressions of interest for the establishment of such a service,” Mr Jenkins said.

A maritime advisory group created by the DoT to discuss Albany Waterfront Marina-related issues and provide advice on priorities and operational requirements met for the second time last Thursday.

Chairman Noel Chambers said those in attendance acknowledged DoT cold not immediately reduce casual berthing fees.

josh.nyman@albanyadvertiser.com