Mid West Ports "Welcome Aboard" New 2026 Not-For-Profit Partnership.

Published: Wednesday, 29 April 2026 at 2:23:40 PM

  • Mid West Ports announces Batavia Coast Replica Boat Association as the successful recipient of the Mid West Ports’ 2026 Not-for-Profit Partnership Program
  • The three-year partnership is valued at $22,400 and includes in-kind maintenance and administrative support from Mid West Ports
  • The program is now in its fifth year, and has provided more than $77,500 since its launch in 2021.

Mid West Ports is pleased to announce the successful appointment of its newest not-for-profit partner, the Batavia Coast Replica Boat Association.

The maritime group were announced as the successful recipient of the Mid West Ports’ 2026 Not-for-Profit Partnership Program this week, marking the commencement of a three-year collaboration focused on strengthening community engagement and preserving maritime heritage.

Based in Geraldton, the Batavia Coast Replica Boat Association is an incorporated not-for-profit organisation dedicated to the preservation, operation and community activation of the Batavia Replica Long Boat.

The partnership provides both financial support and in-kind assistance, including administrative and maintenance support, to help sustain and grow the Association’s operations.

Mid West Ports Chief Executive Officer Damian Tully said the partnership reflects the organisation’s commitment to supporting initiatives that deliver meaningful community outcomes.

 “The Batavia Coast Replica Boat Association holds a special place in the Geraldton community. Supporting continued public access to the Long Boat will help foster skill development, intergenerational learning and community connection, while also enhancing Geraldton’s cultural tourism offering,” Mr Tully said.

The Batavia Replica Long Boat serves as a working vessel and a unique community asset, offering opportunities for locals and visitors to engage directly with Western Australia’s maritime history through hands-on, on-water experiences.

As part of the partnership, the Association aims to deliver a minimum of 12 community sailing or on-water engagement activities per year, including education, twilight sails and commemorative events. These will provide skills development opportunities for at least 20 volunteers and participants annually across marine safety, vessel maintenance and event operations.

Mid West Ports’ Not-for-Profit Partnership Program is a three-year partnership valued at $22,400, combining financial, maintenance and administrative support. Now in its fifth year, the Program has provided more than $77,500 since its launch in 2021.

The Program has previously supported organisations such as Geraldton Surf Life Saving Club and ATLAS and currently partners with Theatre 8 and Geraldton Tree Canopy Advocates.

For more information about Mid West Ports’ Community Partnerships, click here

Batavia long boat

About Mid West Ports
Mid West Ports is a proudly Western Australian Government owned port authority. Servicing WA’s Mid West region, it plays a pivotal role in facilitating more than 17 million tonnes of global trade each year, supporting the growth of our region and connecting the Mid West to the world.

While it predominantly operates bulk exports in iron ore, grain and mineral sands, its role in trade and tourism continues to thrive.

Proudly connected to Southern Yamatji country, its workforce of nearly 190 are largely based in regional WA.

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