Pedal boats upon the waters of Lake Burley Griffin used to be common site but after years of lying dormant, the popular aquatic transport is set to make a return to the water.

The National Capital Authority (NCA) is looking for a business to manage the much-loved pedal boats on Lake Burley Griffin, launching an expression of interest for a company to operate the commercial boat hire service in the lake’s Central Basin.

It is anticipated that the agreed site will become available to the successful licensee in October 2019 with trading to commence at the discretion of the successful licensee and as agreed by the authority.

Trading will only operate during the warmer months of the year during October and April, the expression of interest said.

The NCA said it envisages a licence agreement term of three years with a further option of two years depending on the premises, level of initial setup costs envisaged and the type of service or operation proposed.

In the expression of interest, the NCA proposed a semi-transportable structure, to be provided by the operator, to be used as the office of the rentals to supplement the existing facilities around the lake such as walking and cycling paths, other kiosks, Segway rentals, toilets and cafe area.

The authority is currently putting the finishing touches on the restoration work of over a dozen pedal boats which they acquired from the ACT Government, which had been sitting at the ferry terminal in West Basin for several years.

NCA chief executive Sally Barnes said the boats were assessed by a marine safety expert and will undergo minor repairs and updates as well as receiving a new coat of paint.

Ms Barnes said the re-introduction of pedal boats to the Central Basin of Lake Burley Griffin is an important component of the NCA’s objectives to invigorate activity in and around the lake and is hopeful to have the boats back on the water this summer.

“The pedal boats were a popular recreational activity enjoyed by locals and visitors for many years and have a direct link to Canberra’s history and the NCA is excited to have them returned to Lake Burley Griffin,” Ms Barnes said.

“We will have one or two of the boats on display at this year’s Floriade event as a commemoration and a reminder that the boats will be returning to Lake Burley Griffin.”

For further information or to apply to the EOI, click here. Responses to the expressions of interest are due by 9 September 2019.