Summer saved as pontoon returns to Robe
The swimming pontoon at Front Beach was redeployed on Tuesday through a collaboration between Robe council staff, the Robe Surf Life Saving Club, and a local professional fisherman.
Re-floating of the popular feature was approved at a Special Council Meeting on January 13.
The pontoon, usually returned to waters in October, was beached due to the same insurance and maintenance concerns that have threatened many of South Australia’s other pontoons.
Robe Council Chief Executive Officer Nat Traeger said increased insurance requirements, including daily inspections, had driven operational costs and resources to unsustainable levels.
However, an agreed change to weekly inspections, necessary repairs, and a newly acquired seabed licence from the Department of Infrastructure and Transport secured the pontoon’s return.
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Traeger said the repairs, including removal of sharp edges and a hazardous ladder, were carried out by council staff.
Staff also completed a detailed above and underwater inspection of the pontoon.
The Council used a straddle carrier to remove the pontoon for repairs. Photo: District Council of Robe / Mayor Lisa Ruffell
Mayor Lisa Ruffell said the swimming pontoon has been a cherished part of Robe’s summer experience for over 50 years.
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“We are thrilled to see it returning to Front Beach, and we extend our appreciation to all those who have worked together to make this possible,” Ruffell said.
A memorandum of understanding between the council and Robe Surf Life Saving Club was signed, with the club taking on the responsibility of conducting weekly inspections of the pontoon to ensure its safety and compliance with insurance requirements.
Club Patrol Captain Luke Turner said the surf club is proud to help maintain the “wonderful local asset”.
“Our volunteers are ready to begin inspections immediately to make sure that the pontoon remains safe for the community and visitors alike,” Turner said.
Robe Council Chief Executive Officer Nat Traeger in front of the beloved pontoon. Photo: District Council of Robe/ Nat Treager
Professional fisherman Jack Perkins helped the council re-float the pontoon on Tuesday.
Traeger, who was on a boat nearby, said she could hear squeals of excitement from children as they lined up along the foreshore.
Before they even secured the pontoon, she said the children were already scrambling on.
Traeger said the pontoon is one of Robe’s most popular attractions and gets thousands of visitors each summer.
