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Council steps up to save boat club

Carmelle WilkinsonCanning Gazette

A NEW launching platform at Ranford Lake in Canning Vale will ensure smooth sailing for a local boat club.

The new specifically fabricated step will allow the men at the Australian Model Ship Society to safely drop their handcrafted boats into the deep water.

Club president John Harrison said water erosion caused the old limestone step to break away and fall into the water two years ago, leaving members crouching by the water’s edge to launch their boats.

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The hazardous exercise was proving difficult for some members, who range in age from 50 to 93 years.

“We aren’t 21 anymore and there are a few of us unsteady on our feet, so it’s been a bit challenging launching the boats from the water’s edge,’’ he said.

“Some of the boats have ended up going for a swim as a result.”

Mr Harrison thanked Canning Councillor Patrick Hall for advocating on the club’s behalf for 12 months.

“We are so grateful; this new bridge, as we like to call it, will help us launch our boats safely,’’ he said.

Cr Hall was pleased with the outcome.

“In many ways the club is like a Men’s Shed on water and I was only happy to help them out,’’ he said. “The group of men head to the lake every Sunday morning, rail, hail or shine, to sail their boats.

“It’s a great sight and perhaps one of Canning’s best kept secrets.”

Mr Harrison encouraged parents to bring youngsters down to see their spectacular array of boats, some costing in the thousands.