Council to manage Apollo Bay Harbour

THE Colac Otway Shire will enter into a management agreement to operate the Port of Apollo Bay until mid-next year. The council presently manages and administers the Port of Apollo Bay on behalf of the state government’s Transport for Victoria (TFV).

The previous agreement expired 30 June last year and the council determined at its December 2017 meeting to defer its decision to allow for further discussions with the State Government and user groups including the Port of Apollo Bay Consultative Committee.

However, Cr McCracken said the shire agreed to enter into a management agreement until June 30, 2019 to enable time critical safety improvements to be funded by TFV. “The port agreement provides a mechanism for the release of funding from the state government for port operations and improvement projects.

“By agreeing to continue operating the port for another two years, this enables Council to secure funding from the government for projects such as the installation of new navigational aids and lead lights. “Another important project is work on improving the navigable depth of the whole harbour area. This work can begin after the funding agreement is finalised with TFV.

“Meanwhile, ongoing discussions will take place with the government and key users regarding the future management of the port beyond June 2019.” The port agreement the council will enter into details ownership and management of assets and defines the expectations for business planning and port management.