REGULAR users of Jack Evans Boat Harbour cheered loudly as a construction fence limiting access to the water was torn down this week.

Among those celebrating, and possibly cheering loudest was Trevor Arbon of Big Trev’s Watersports.

Big Trev was delighted Tweed Shire Council had opened a major section of the harbour upgrade, including the beach and stair access, in time for the busy Easter period.

“It’s exciting; it’s been a year since they started it,” Big Trev said.

“Having the construction fence around me for the past 12 months was no good for business.

“It was the worst year I’ve ever had, but I’m hoping to have a great Easter, especially with this weather.”

Big Trev and some regular harbour swimmers shared a cheesecake on Wednesday to mark the occasion.

“We all had a bit of a cheer and a round of applause when the fence came down because we’ve been hidden.

“You can finally see the harbour from the road again.

“We’ve also got full use of the harbour because the silt float is out.”

Taking advantage of Big Trev’s equipment, including stand-up paddleboards, sailing, kayaks and paddleboats, on Thursday was the Hughes family from Brisbane.

“This is our first time in Tweed Heads and the weather is just gorgeous,” Kylie Hughes said.

“The harbour looks really nice and modern; it should attract a lot of people.

“My husband said it was just like Southbank, which is really lovely to go to.”

Big Trev said the harbour was a wonderful place for families.

“This is such a great safe swimming and sailing spot,” he said. “There are no rips or currents.”

The boat harbour upgrade is on schedule for completion by the start of June, despite wet weather interruptions.