Council today welcomed the Hon Melissa Horne MP to the Port of Apollo Bay for a site visit and briefing following the recent awarding of the contract to build new floating pontoons at the boat ramp after a funding grant of $800,000 from Better Boating Victoria (Victorian Fisheries Authority) earlier in the year.
As Minister for Ports and Freight, as well as Fishing and Boating, Ms Horne was also shown updates to the Stage 1 Apollo Bay Harbour Redevelopment, currently underway with $12M in City Deal funding.
"This is a very busy port and one that is central to both the function and character of the town of Apollo Bay," said Tony McGann, GM Environment and Infrastructure. "The boat ramp and associated facilities play a key role in this vital recreational, marine industry and tourism asset."
A contract to construct two 60-metre-long floating pontoons and timber jetty upgrade was awarded to Bellingham Marine Australia after a nine-week tender process. The project, managed by Council, is part of the Victorian Government's $47.2M investment into Victorian boating.
The new pontoons will provide a safe, compliant and fit for purpose boating facility to meet the needs of the community and Port stakeholders.
They will be a significant enhancement of an existing recreational boating facility and will provide a much safer, more functional and modern boating facility, while reducing safety risk and improving access for all parts of the community. Provisions for future all-abilities access will also be included.
"We're thrilled that our targeted advocacy campaign for this works has had a successful outcome and will provide this project at no cost to Council," said Mr McGann.
The Port of Apollo Bay is the only sheltered harbour for small boats along the stretch of coastline between Queenscliff and Portland and features an all-weather, dual-lane ramp.
The port plays a vital role in the state's marine emergency response and preparedness, with a base for the Apollo Bay Marine Sea Rescue vessel, which will benefit from increased access to the new boat ramp.
The port is also home to marine and coastal industries, including commercial fishing, tourism-based boat and charter activities, as well as a number of community based clubs and organisations, such as the Apollo Bay Sailing Club, who will also benefit from the upgraded infrastructure.
