The George Town Yacht Club’s much-loved pontoon is been given a new lease of life thanks to the club’s determination and the support of the TasPorts Community Grant Program.
Posted
22 September 2025
Serving the northern side of York Cove since the early 1970s, the club has long been a hub for the boating community and a partner in local events such as Relay for Life, the George Town Folk Festival, and Clean Up the Cove. Its secure pontoon – with water, power, and easy access – is the only facility of its kind on the Upper West Tamar, playing a vital role for members, visiting vessels, and the broader maritime community.
Concerns over the structural integrity of the pontoon led to a full inspection, revealing that the steel substructure had suffered extensive corrosion. This essential refurbishment project involved removing and beaching the pontoon, dismantling the decking, replacing the steelwork, and laying new timber.
Thanks to the TasPorts grant, the club was able to move forward without the heavy financial strain such a large project can bring. Over the past three years, TasPorts has supported 85 organisations through the Community Grant Program, contributing $350,000 into the Tasmanian community.
“On behalf of the club, we would like to express our gratitude to TasPorts for this grant, which significantly reduces the financial pressure on refurbishing our pontoon,” said Paul Hardy, Secretary of the George Town Yacht Club.
The works progressed in stages:
The refurbishment will restore the pontoon’s safety, functionality, and longevity, ensuring it will continue to provide a secure berth and essential services for years to come. With the project almost complete, the George Town Yacht Club is getting ready to welcome local and visiting vessels, providing the same reliable facilities that have served the maritime community for decades.