Fresh bid to get iconic paddle boats back on the lake

The National Capital Authority is calling for operators to apply for tender to run the boats which first graced the water about five decades ago.

The new operator will need to be experienced in restoring boats.

They will need to "restore, maintain and operate the 12 paddle boats [which were] temporarily removed from service late last year".

Seventeen boats were removed from operation in late 2023 because they needed repairs.

They were being run by GoBoats founder Nick Tyrrell.

He said the National Capital Authority took the boats off the lake after an assessment.

"Our team really enjoyed being part of bringing the paddle boats back to the Lake, but we supported the NCA's decision to retire them after an assessment found they weren't safe anymore," he said.

"We would love to see paddle boats back on the lake and we're happy to hear from any new operator with any questions so we can support them to bring the boats back to life."

Mr Tyrrell said the tender would suit a community organisation with access to people who could maintain the boats, and wanted to raise funds or awareness for a cause.

"Given bushfires, COVID and crazy weather it was always a struggle to eke out any profit while keeping prices low and accessible, but it was a fun exercise and I think it would really suit a community organisation like a Men's shed or similar," he said.

If restored, the boats will be based at Regatta Point Beach.

They are expected to operate from four to six months a year.

The original operator of the boats closed to make way for the ACT government's West Basin redevelopment in the mid-2010s.

The City Renewal Authority donated the 17 boats to the National Capital Authority.

The new open tender has been welcomed by federal politicians.

Territories Minister Kristy McBain said the paddle boats are "iconic".

"Paddle boats are an iconic part of Canberra's social history, operating on Lake Burley Griffin for almost 50 years," she said.

"We want to see them operate long into the future - as part of our commitment to activating Lake Burley Griffin and to stimulating the territory's visitor economy."

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Canberra MP Alicia Payne said she had fond memories of the boats from her own childhood.

"Their return will be welcomed by families from the Canberra region, and encourage a whole new generation of locals and visitors to make the most this unforgettable experience," she said.