After just over a year, the slipway at Kiama is fully operational again thanks largely to two members of the Kiama Boat Owners Association (KBOA) taking control of the project.

“We had a quote for a new cradle of close to $100,000, but thanks to John Hansen and Rex Jones project managing the work we’ve achieved more for $36,000,” says KBOA Treasurer Paul Wyer.

“If we didn’t get involved it was never going to happen,” says Rex, who used his contacts in the steel industry to help bring costs down.

Kemblawarra businesses Ace Constructions and Dean Industries did the bulk of the work before the recertification.

Beams have been refurbished or replaced, and the final job is for the rails to be protected by sacrificial anodes to prolong their life.

“This slip should be good now for at least another ten years,” says John.

With the nearest slipways at Port Hacking and Ulladulla not allowing owners to work on their own boats, members and other boat owners along the coast are relieved the facility has been reinstated.

Maintenance work on the first boat is almost finished

“We were keen to get it back in action so it wouldn’t be decommissioned like the one in Wollongong,” says Paul.

“Given the Kiama Harbour Revitalisation Plan includes an action to upgrade the slipway, we are working closely with Maritime with this in mind and are looking at getting Boat Now funding for any expansion.

“This repair will keep the slipway operational until then.

“Maritime are right behind our wanting to keep it so that owners are able to work on their own boats, as there aren’t many places you can do that now.”

The work was paid for by a levy on KBOA members, who will in turn receive discounted rates for using the facility.