DEMAND for dolphin cruises is set to hot up with a dive company’s request for a licence to operate from Stingray wharf receiving preliminary approval.
Lippiatt Pty Ltd, trading as Freo Dive moved one step closer to providing cruises in Mandurah despite council concern over the company’s advertising of coupons for trips before their application had been approved.
Councillor Darren Lee voiced his concern with the coupons available online, but was told it would be an issue for Cosumer Protection rather than councillors.
City director of works and services Allan Claydon said the licence approval by council would be purely for “cruising around waterways”.
“Dolphin watching has been talked about extensively,” he said.
“[Lippiatt Pty Ltd] only asked to operate out of Stingray wharf; anyone can park there for a fee.”
Cr Lee questioned whether approval would be granted for dive operations or party boats but Mr Claydon said councillors were approving the jetty use, not operations of the business.
Councillor Peter Jackson asked what would happen to Freo Dive’s vessel if the public wharf moorings were full but according to Mr Claydon signage would be used to prevent other vessels from docking at the site during their hours of operation.
Despite concerns over exact hours of operation and ticketing, councillors gave the business their first green light to operate with a 12-month licence for a fee of $5100.
In a report entered to councillors, it was established the City should be encouraging tourism businesses to establish themselves in the city.
“This application supports the strategic direction to encourage more economic activites related to tourism in Mandurah,” the report read.
A final decision on the company’s approval will be made at next week’s full council meeting.
