TOOLEYBUC’S new pontoon is a “dream come true”, says local resident Tom Spinks.
The pontoon, which has been an ongoing project since November 2013, has recently finished installation at Tooleybuc’s Mensforth Park.
Built off-site by contractor Bellingham Marine Australia, the pontoon contains two gangways; an eight-metre fixed gangway and 28-metre hinged gangway, enabling access to the 25-metre long cement structure.
“It’s absolutely magic, it’s much more than we expected,” Mr Spinks told The Guardian.
“It is a great gain for the community and needed in the river.”
Now installed, the pontoon has the capacity to serve riverboats, kayaks and fishermen, while providing direct access to the town as well as access to public amenities for water traffic.
“The other day, there was already five boats pulled up here,” Mr Spinks said.
“As soon as more people know about it, it’s going to be used more and more, especially in the summertime.”
Mr Spinks added the facility will be an asset for emergency services.
“Previously, if you had a major accident, there was no way to get people off the river quickly,” he said.
“Now ambulances and other medical services will have access to come down.”
Murray River Council (MRC) mayor Chris Bilkey added the new pontoon was a great project for the Tooleybuc community.
“The new structure will complement the redevelopment of Mensforth Park area that is also currently underway, showcasing Tooleybuc as a great place to stop; whether you’re on the road or water,” Mr Bilkey said.
The final stages of the pontoon will consist of lighting, water and sewer installations, scheduled to be complete by January 2020.
The pontoon project and redevelopment of Mensforth Park was funded by the NSW Government, the stronger country communities fund and the federal government’s regional growth fund through Our Region Our Rivers regional collaboration project.
