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Construction starts on Shellharbour's new marine tourism precinct

Today the Minns Labor Government alongside Shellharbour Council celebrated the start of construction on the Boathouse Tourism and Marine project at Shellharbour, which will eventually deliver jobs and boost the local economy with its transformation into a major tourism destination.

The development will deliver a purpose‑built marine tourism hub combining specialist watercraft infrastructure with premium dining, entertainment and event facilities.

Once operational, the project is expected to create 77 new jobs, attract increased private investment and enhance the region’s capacity to host major national and international events.

While the project has experienced delays due to the developmental approval processes, and challenging soil conditions which required additional geotechnical investigations, it is welcome news for the community to now see works beginning.

The Boathouse project includes a tourism visitor centre capable of accommodating a range of operators such as charter hire services, snorkelling and dive tours, whale watching, e-bike and scooter hire and other marine based experiences.

The development will also deliver a specialist boatyard featuring dry dock facilities, repair and maintenance services for vessels up to 30 metres and 75 tonnes and refuelling capacity for high end commercial vessels.

An indoor‑outdoor entertainment space and café on the promenade will provide a vibrant place for locals and visitors to gather and enjoy high‑quality local food and coastal views.

Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:

“This project is an investment in Shellharbour’s local economy, supporting sustainable job creation, attracting private investment and building a stronger, more resilient visitor economy.

“Our Government is making sure projects get started and we will monitor this going forward so the local community get delivered the world-class marine and tourism infrastructure you deserve.

“We are all looking forward to seeing this construction stage progress and then seeing Shellharbour Boathouse driving year-round visitation, stimulating local businesses and becoming a leading marine tourism hub on the NSW coast.”

State Member for Shellharbour, Anna Watson MP said:

“Seeing construction underway is a welcome step forward for the Shellharbour community. The Minns Government is focused on delivering projects that have been long promised by others.

“The Boathouse precinct will deliver many new jobs, support local operators and give our harbour the facilities it needs to attract visitors, events and activity that flow directly into local businesses and the broader region.”

30 April 2026