A new chapter is beginning for Apollo Bay Harbour, with works starting on the major historic project.
The $12.61 million project, funded by the Australian Government, is supporting local construction jobs and will unlock more economic growth for the Great Ocean Road.
Works include an extension to the Apollo Bay Fisherman's Cooperative building, providing better facilities to support local businesses and for more people to enjoy the harbour.
The building will now be expanded to include new dining options to boost visitation, return of a wet fish market and an outdoor terrace.
More than seven million visitors flock to the Great Ocean Road region every year.
Visitors to the Apollo Bay Harbour will enjoy a new public viewing deck that shows off the coastline.
Improvements to the Mothers Beach car park and safer pedestrian and vehicle access will make the harbour an even better place for visitors.
Visitors will also continue to enjoy familiar landmarks at the harbour, including the whale shark sculpture and the southern rock lobster mural celebrating one of the region's best-known seafoods.
For safer operations, a new Port Operations Depot will also be built, improving worker safety and supporting ongoing recreation and commercial operations in the port.
Redevelopment of the harbour precinct is delivered by the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority (GOR-CAPA), with Bowden Corporation appointed to deliver the works.
The project is funded through a $676 million partnership between the Albanese and Carroll governments and City of Greater Geelong.
More than $50 billion has been delivered through the Carroll Labor Government over the past decade to make our regions even better places to live, work, visit and study.
Labor is delivering the infrastructure Victoria needs, while Jess Wilson's Liberal National Coalition are planning $40 billion in cuts.
As stated by Federal Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, Kristy McBain MP:
"Our investment in the Apollo Bay Harbour Redevelopment is one of many ways that the Australian and Victorian governments are supporting the local economy and the Great Ocean Road.
"We are backing in other projects such as the Twelve Apostles Precinct Redevelopment, Kennett River Tourism Infrastructure Upgrades and the Point Grey Redevelopment."
As stated by Victorian Minister for Rural and Regional Development, Michaela Settle MP:
"People come from all over the world to experience Apollo Bay - we're making sure the harbour lives up to that reputation."
"These upgrades will help more people stop, stay longer and support local businesses."
As stated by Victorian Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Natalie Suleyman MP:
"Apollo Bay is one of Victoria's most loved coastal destinations, and these upgrades will create an even better experience for visitors exploring the Great Ocean Road.
"We're helping more people discover regional Victoria while supporting local businesses and jobs."
As stated by Federal Labor Senator for Victoria, Senator Raff Ciccone:
"The Apollo Bay Harbour is an important part of the Great Ocean Road experience and an asset for the local community.
"This investment will create jobs, support local businesses and deliver better facilities for residents and visitors, strengthening the future of Apollo Bay and the wider Wannon electorate."
As stated by State Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney MP:
"This is exactly the kind of investment regional communities need - projects that respect local history, respond to community needs and create lasting benefits for the locals who call this place home."
"Only Labor are delivering projects that make a real difference for regional communities and support the local economy."
