MORE FUNDING BRINGING BOATING TO LIFE ON THE PENINSULA

[fishingvic]

MORE FUNDING BRINGING BOATING TO LIFE ON THE PENINSULA

Friday, 26 May 2023

The Andrews Labor Government is making it easier for boaters to get out on the water across the Mornington Peninsula, with new upgrades announced for more boat ramps across the region.

Minister for Outdoor Recreation Sonya Kilkenny and Member for Hastings Paul Mercurio today visited Mornington’s Schnapper Point boat ramp where a $1.6 million investment will upgrade facilities – boosting boating access and safety for all.

The project will build a new concrete ramp surface, upgrade jetties and ensure facilities are accessible for people for all mobility levels.

On French Island, the Tankerton boat ramp is relied on by locals and visitors to access the historic spot in Western Port. A $900,000 investment will upgrade the existing ramp with a new concrete surface – improving the boating experience for all.

These projects are funded through the reinvestment of boating licence and registration fees through the Labor Government’s Better Boating Fund and the Government’s $96 million investment to improve fishing, boating, piers and aquaculture in Victoria over the next four years.

At Hastings, the recently completed $3.6 million boat ramp development will be complemented by a $271,000 grant to replace the northern pontoon, creating more spaces for boats when launching or retrieving.

Further along the Peninsula at Stony Point, a $75,000 grant will fund improvements to the car park including resurfacing and new linemarking so boaters can continue to access Western Port as well as offshore fishing in Bass Strait.

Both projects have been funded through Better Boating Victoria’s Structural Maintenance Grants.

Boating access at Rye, Mornington, Sorrento and Safety Beach will also be improved at a range of tides thanks to a $250,000 Dredging and Access Grant awarded to Mornington Peninsula Shire Council.

The Mornington Peninsula has the second highest rate of boat ownership in Victoria. The region is a renowned tourism destination and a popular spot for locals and visitors to enjoy the waters of Western Port, Port Phillip or further offshore.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Outdoor Recreation Sonya Kilkenny

“Enjoying the water is a way of life on the Peninsula, so we’re investing to ensure we’ve got top quality boating facilities here on Melbourne’s doorstep.”

“Whether you’re heading out onto Western Port for whiting and snapper or planning to cruise down to Port Phillip Bay’s South Channel Fort with family or friends, there’s so many great memories to be made in this beautiful area.”

Quote attributable to Member for Hastings Paul Mercurio

“I am really excited to see the continued investment by the Andrew’s Labor Government into boating in our electorate of Hastings. The recently upgraded Hastings boat ramp is a fantastic facility used by thousands each year. This grant will complete the project with the upgrade of the north pontoon.”

Media contact: Bodil Droga 0413 701 929 | bodil.droga@minstaff.vic.gov.au