All Hands on Deck

A MAJOR redevelopment of Queenscliff Ferry Terminal is on track to finish this year, delivering more than 100 jobs and a huge economic boost for Bellarine businesses.

All levels of government and local business gathered this week to celebrate a construction milestone for the eagerly awaited $15.9-million revamp, which is set to transform the region’s tourism landscape.

Project builder Kane Constructions demolished the old terminal building and finished a range of external works, including structural improvements to the passenger gantry, construction of the terminal’s boardwalk and its rock groyne.

Builders have begun work on the new terminal building, by laying foundations pouring concrete slabs for its ground and first floors.

The big-ticket project is set to finish in November and deliver improved services between Queenscliff and Sorrento, bringing more visitors to the Bellarine Peninsula and boosting a tourism gateway to Geelong and the Surf Coast.

The new terminal building will improve amenities for travellers, including modern facilities and bathrooms, safer pedestrian access including disability access, improved car parking and retail opportunities, such as for cafes.

The terminal upgrade will provide 25 ongoing jobs and a further 85 during construction throughout this year.

Queenscliff’s terminal upgrade is part of the Geelong City Deal – a $380-million deal between the Federal Government, State Government and local councils including the City of Greater Geelong to deliver large-scale infrastructure improvements.

Federal and state politicians visited the project site at Queenscliff on Tuesday alongside Geelong’s deputy mayor Trent Sullivan and Searoad Ferries boss Matt McDonald.

The federal government contributed $10 million, while Searoad Ferries contributed $5.9 million towards the terminal project, and Mr McDonald said he looked forward to a “world-class” passenger experience.

“The terminal will deliver new jobs in the construction phase, and a major economic boost for the region,” Mr McDonald said.

Victoria Senator Sarah Henderson said the upgrade would help unlock the region’s potential.

“I congratulate Searoad Ferries for its vision and commitment to such an important service which carries nearly one million passengers a year,” she said.

“The upgrade of the Queenscliff Ferry Terminal is a game changer for tourism in our region and reflects the growing investment confidence we are seeing across regional Victoria.”

Bellarine MP Lisa Neville said the improved ferry service would provide significant financial benefits for her electorate and beyond.

“The redevelopment will help drive economic diversification and jobs growth, building on emerging strengths for Geelong and the Great Ocean Road region.”

Cr Sullivan said the redevelopment would “ensure that passengers have a safer and more enjoyable experience when visiting our special part of the world”, and “encourage more visitors to Greater Geelong and support our thriving community”.