Contract awarded to upgrade Queenscliff boat ramp

THE pace is ramping up on improving Queenscliff’s boat ramp, with Drapers Civil Contracting winning the contract to upgrade the popular facility.

The $3.7 million project will include expanding the boat ramp from two to three lanes as well as dredging, replacing pontoons, and formalising the overflow parking area.

The changes will increase efficiency for boaters launching and loading at the ramp and boost the capacity of the Queenscliff facilities, especially in busy holiday periods.

Access to the ramp will be disrupted while works are undertaken with the boat ramp closed from mid-June to early-September to avoid disruption during the peak fishing season.

Final works to complete construction are scheduled for 2022, after the peak boating season.

Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney congratulated Bellarine MP Lisa Neville for her efforts in encouraging the upgrade.

“Lisa Neville over many years has strongly advocated for better boating facilities on the Bellarine and this news will be welcomed by her and the local businesses that depend on tourism during the peak season,” Ms Tierney said.

“We’ve listened to the local community’s feedback in progressing the plans for the upgrade, and it’s exciting to be only weeks away from works beginning.”

The project is part of Labor’s $47.2 million investment to improve recreational boating in Victoria, which includes making launching and parking at Victorian boat ramps free and the establishment of the Better Boating Fund.

“Queenscliff is an iconic location for many boaters and fishers and these upgrades will be welcome news for locals and the many holiday goers who visit the Bellarine Peninsula,” Minister for Fishing and Boating Melissa Horne said.

“Whether it’s Port Phillip’s snapper and whiting or bigger game fish like tuna and kingfish offshore, Queenscliff will cater for more boats than ever before and make it easier to enjoy the best of the bay.”