Floating heliport for Leschenault Inlet?

A floating helicopter landing pontoon could be built on the Leschenault Inlet in a bid to create new tourism and business opportunities for Bunbury.

However, the Bunbury Rowing Club has vowed to fight the proposal if it impacts on the club’s day-to-day activities.

The proposal was raised at the Bunbury City Council’s briefing session last week by council staff and will be debated at tomorrow night’s council meeting.

The report, from planning and developmental services director Bob Karaszkewych, recommends changing the Leschenault Inlet Masterplan to allow a heliport to be built on the water.

Council staff have recommended councillors agree to advertise the plan to the public, aviation, safety, environmental and maritime authorities, and discuss it as part of this year’s budget deliberations.

Mr Karaszkewych told councillors the pontoon could cost $50,000, would measure 6m by 6m and could be used by emergency services, and business and tourism operators.

He said the city would also benefit from landing fees and charges.

The location on the inlet for the pontoon was not discussed but Mr Karaskewych said there would need to be a 60m buffer from other activities.

The inlet is already used for rowing, dragon boating, stand-up paddle boarding and swimming.

Bunbury Rowing Club president Jayden Edwards said the club would fight the proposal “100 per cent” if the pontoon interfered with the club’s activities.

“Our sport in the South West could not go ahead without the whole use of the inlet, ” he said.

“The sport has been in Bunbury for a long time and it would be a shame if it impacts our activities in any way.”

During the meeting, Deputy Mayor Brendan Kelly said environmental approvals could be a drawn-out process.