E-Newsletter #18

Lintern Street Wharf in Davistown.

Planned wharf upgrades in Davistown and Saratoga

Exciting developments are underway for the Davistown and Saratoga waterfronts, with Adam Crouch MP announcing significant upgrades planned for local wharfs. Central Coast Council has secured $1.795 million through the NSW Government's Boating Infrastructure for Communities Grant Program to enhance the Lintern Street wharf and boat ramp in Davistown and the Veterans Hall wharf in Saratoga.

The Lintern Street wharf will receive $1.245 million for a major overhaul. The project includes new approaches, an improved gangway, a modern ferry shelter, a floating pontoon, and a revamped wharf. Meanwhile, the Saratoga Veterans Hall wharf will undergo a $550 thousand upgrade, featuring similar improvements such as new approaches, a gangway, a ferry shelter, and a floating pontoon. These enhancements will improve safety and accessibility for boaters and visitors.

The funding success follows years of community advocacy, with special recognition to Pam Israel, Tiny, and Lee from the Davistown Progress Association 3 Villages Community Group. Their petitions, which gathered 1,100 signatures, played a key role in securing the funds for the Lintern Street wharf upgrades.

In addition, Marine Rescue NSW has received $430 thousand to replace the existing boat ramp at Peel Street Osbourne Park, Toukley, with a new 12-metre-wide ramp. This upgrade will enhance safety and usability for local boaters, visitors, and families.

These projects mark a significant step forward in improving boating infrastructure and community access to the Brisbane Water.

Candela’s Regional CEO Mr Björn Antonsson (left) shaking hands with Mr Surachai Suwanthanakul, CEO of Leopard Transportation Co., Ltd, flanked by the Governor of Trat, Mr Nattapong Sanguanjitra, and Deputy and Permanent Secretary Punya Chupanit, Ministry of Transport, Thailand, together with (from left) Tomas Juhlin, VP of Swedish Chamber of Commerce, and Mr Per Linnér, Charge d’Affairs Swedish Embassy, Bangkok. [Image courtesy of Candela Boats]

Candela Boats electrifies Thailand's island paradise with hydrofoil deal

In a landmark move for sustainable maritime transport, Swedish electric boat innovator Candela has secured a major contract to deploy ten P-12 hydrofoil ferries in Thailand. Announced on October 2, 2025, at the SX Sustainability Expo in Bangkok, the agreement with Seudamgo by Leopard Transportation Co., Ltd. marks Candela's first major deployment in Southeast Asia. The ceremony, attended by Trat Province Governor Nattapong Sanguanjitra, Ministry of Transport representatives, and Swedish Embassy officials, underscores the growing bilateral ties in green technology. This deal positions Thailand, home to Candela's largest regional office outside Sweden, as a frontrunner in decarbonising its vast archipelago of over 1,500 islands, many of which draw millions of eco-conscious tourists annually.

Chase Zero Reaches Range and Speed Milestones. [YouTube video]

Spotlight on local legends: McConaghy Boats

Based on the NSW Central Coast, McConaghy Boats has been driving maritime innovation since 1967, when founder John McConaghy began building high-performance dinghies and catamarans in Sydney. His early adoption of advanced materials, such as prepreg carbon fiber in the 1970s and the world's first nomex-cored maxi yacht in 1987, set the stage for global recognition. Though the company now operates a cutting-edge facility in China, its headquarters remain proudly Australian, producing everything from foiling monohulls to superyachts that excel in regattas worldwide. McConaghy's story showcases Australian craftsmanship and a relentless pursuit of speed and sustainability.

Leading their innovative lineup is the Chase Zero, a 13-meter hydrogen-powered foiling catamaran that redefines high-speed luxury on the water. Developed with Emirates Team New Zealand for America's Cup support, this vessel glides above the waves at over 30 knots and carries up to 12 VIP passengers in a customisable cabin suited for race spectating or swift coastal transfers. With zero emissions and a lightweight design that ensures perfect balance, the Chase Zero delivers thrilling performance while prioritising environmental responsibility, making every journey a sustainable adventure.

As a local innovator headquartered in Gosford on the Central Coast, McConaghy Boats inspires our Central Coast community with its pioneering vision. From mentoring young boatbuilders to advancing eco-friendly technology, the company shapes the future of maritime excellence right here at home. Whether you're cruising on the Brisbane Water or planning your next high-seas adventure, McConaghy proves that world-class innovation thrives locally. Watch for their latest creations, as the next big breakthrough might be crafted just down the road.

Visit McConaghy Boats to learn more about their cutting-edge range of high-performance vessels.

What's next for October 2025? ✨

This month, we are focused on a formal feasibility study for pilot routes and connecting with stakeholders who share our goals.

If you have not already done so, please remember to share details of the waterbus project with family, friends, and colleagues.

Thank you for your continued support of the Brisbane Waters WaterBUS initiative. Together, we’re creating meaningful change for our community!