The device, installed earlier this year, helps paddlers launch and retrieve their kayaks and canoes on the Williams River.

Seaham Park and Wetland Committee was part of the $400,000 works at Torrence Street that also upgraded the boat ramp and car park.

“There is talk of having a Williams River paddling trail,” committee secretary Pretoria McGee said.

“There are canoe trails in the Snowy Mountains and at Tumut (Riverina) among others.”

The committee was successful in its application to Port Stephens Council and Maritime Services which each contributed $200,000.

Ms McGee said Seaham would make a central point for paddlers between Dungog and Carrington at Newcastle.

“To enable this to happen all we really need now is a portage trail to bypass the Balickera Canal,” she said.

“Otherwise people would have to use the fish ladder.”

Paddle NSW CEO Peter Tate endorsed the canoe launch application and was pleased to see it materialise.

“Between a few of our affiliate [paddle] clubs I’m sure we can get a trail up and running on the Williams,” he said.

“As the state body we’re certainly interested in making the most of this opportunity.” 

Paddle NSW said the creation of holiday recreation activities helped create healthier families.

“Whether it’s stand up paddle boarding, canoes, outrigger canoes or kayaks, paddling is a healthy ‘outstyle’ that gets people away from their screens enjoying some exercise outside,” Mr Tate said.

“We have some popular paddle trails out west and if we could realise one here in the Hunter it would be fantastic.”

Seaham Park and Wetland Committee vice chairwoman Kim Hannaway said the launching facilities had become a focal point for the volunteers in recent months.

“Our park had been the main focus, which has been great, and utilised by a lot of people,” she said.

“This has become our new focus. The boat ramp was the main focus for the upgrade because it was very steep but getting the canoe launch was a bonus.

“If we were to have any chance of being on a paddle trail this facility was crucial.”