Survey floats ideas for canoe launch facility

15 August 2016

Paddler feedback sought to guide design

Kayakers, canoeists and other paddlers are invited to provide their input for plans to install a launch facility for non-powered vessels on the Tweed River.

A community survey was launched by Council last week to find out about the places people like to paddle and the facilities they would like to see provided.

"Mayor of Tweed Councillor Katie Milne said: "This will be great for the community and eco-tourism.

"This is the sort of low-impact activity that fits well with our fragile river and our environmental image.”

Col Wiley Park at Byangum has been identified as the site for the launch facility for a number of reasons, including the access it provides to the Tweed and Oxley Rivers.

Council’s Project Officer – Coastal, Matt Lee, said: “In addition, the waterways at that location are limited to non-powered vessels, so it’s an ideal site for canoeing,”

“We have produced two concepts designs for the launch, which would make it safer and easier for people to get canoes and other non-powered vessels in an out of the river,” Mr Lee said.

“We are engaging with a number of groups to discuss the two designs and other options. But we also want to hear from other people about the facilities they think are important for a launch and the surrounding site.

“We’d like feedback from the full spectrum of potential users, from regular paddlers to those who would be keen to get involved if there were better facilities.”

The works are jointly funded by Council and NSW Boating Now, a Transport for NSW program to implement boating initiatives in regional areas.

The community survey can be completed online by visiting www.yoursaytweed.com.au. Printed copies are available at Council’s offices in Murwillumbah and Tweed Heads.

For further information, contact Matt Lee on (02) 6670 2767.