- Published:
- Thursday 5 September 2024
The Allan Labor Government is enhancing safety and accessibility at Port Fairy wharf thanks to an investment that will revitalise the historic maritime hub.
Minister for Ports and Freight Melissa Horne visited the port to announce a $340,000 investment to rehabilitate and replace the wharf’s fenders and walers, alongside repairs to the large onsite depot.
This investment builds on recent improvements, including $10,000 in slipway repairs completed in February—critical for safely removing large boats from the water for inspection and maintenance—and a $192,000 upgrade to the timber piles at the wharf, ensuring safer berthing for commercial and larger vessels.
Port users will also benefit from dredging, which is currently underway in the Moyne River, to improve navigation for boats. More investigations and repairs to port facilities will support the local port manager, Moyne Shire Council, to future-proof the commercial and recreational uses of the precinct and improve operations and berthing.
Closer south, the Labor Government’s $80,000 investment to repair Barwon Heads Main Jetty was completed in June, replacing timber decking and capping, ensuring the jetty remains safe for locals and visitors who flock to the Bellarine Peninsula.
Repairs to the Warrnambool Breakwater are supporting safer access for locals, tourists and anglers at this local landmark. Since 2021 the government has invested nearly $360,000 on works to the Breakwater, including pavement resealing and concrete rendering.
At Portland, a critical piece of the marine masterplan is a step closer to completion with the commencement of works for an on-water refuelling facility at Trawler Wharf to meet growing demand from operators for modern and safer infrastructure.
The $394,000 Trawler Wharf project will provide vessel operators with a safe, cost-effective option for refuelling, supporting the region’s commercial fishing industry and local economy and jobs.
Victoria’s local ports contribute more than $900 million a year to local and regional economies through tourism, marine activities, and industries.
Quote attributable to Minister for Ports and Freight Melissa Horne
“We’re continuing to invest in revitalising our piers and jetties in our coastal communities – ensuring they can be enjoyed by locals, boaters, anglers and tourists for generations to come.’’
Quote attributable to Member for Western Victoria Jacinta Ermacora
"Investing in Port Fairy wharf and Barwon Heads Main Jetty means we're ensuring these iconic sites remain cornerstones of our coastal communities.”