The historic Mildura Wharf is about to undergo a major overhaul and facelift starting from Monday, 29 April.
The two-month project follows a thorough inspection of the wharf which identified a raft of structural and aesthetic works needed to bring the popular structure back to its former glory.
Works will include replacing balustrades, hand rails and decking boards as well as giving the access paving leading to the wharf a new look to match the surrounding area. The final touch will be extensive painting and finishing works.
This project will be carried out in a staged approach to ensure riverboat and pedestrian access to at least part of the wharf at all times. Preparations will start from Monday 29 April ahead of the start of works at the site on Monday 6 May.
Councillor for Economic Development and Tourism Mark Eckel said the project represented one of the biggest refurbishments to the wharf in its 127-year history.
"The Mildura Wharf is an iconic landmark in our region and very much part of our city's history, dating back to when the Mildura riverfront was the centre of a thriving river trade," Cr Eckel said.
"It's since become a popular tourist feature and a vital piece of infrastructure for our river-based tourism sector, including our paddleboat industry, which utilises it for regular departures and arrivals."
Cr Eckel said that while the works would take about two months to complete, the result would be a safer and much more attractive feature as part of Mildura's new-look riverfront precinct.
"We've timed these works to take place after what are traditionally our busiest tourist periods – Christmas and Easter," he said.
"Due the extent of these works there will unfortunately be times when parts of the wharf aren't accessible.
"We've planned this project during May and June, which is generally a quieter period along the riverfront, to minimise any disruption to the general public and riverboat operators.
"As part of this we've worked with riverboat operators to ensure they're aware of the works and any changes to accessing the wharf."
Cr Eckel said that while much of the project will be aimed at returning the Mildura Wharf to its original condition, there will be several improvements.
"The decking boards are quite old in some places, so we'll be making them safer and less of a tripping hazard," he said.
"We'll also be replacing the access paving leading to the wharf with pebblecrete, which will match the rest of the footpath areas along the riverfront precinct.
"This will not only be more attractive, but last much longer, which is important given the wharf is a high-usage area."
Once the Mildura Wharf project is completed, Council will turn its attention to the historic Mildura Homestead Wharf, with a similar suite of works planned.
