Launch for revamped Bellarine boat ramp

OCEAN Grove boaters now have access to an improved Guthridge Street Boat Ramp after Geelong council finished an upgrade.

The City of Greater Geelong completed improvements during the past two months to improve the functionality of piles and pontoons for local water users.

The project was planned following storms in 2020 and 2021 that damaged pontoons and required installation of temporary structures while planning continued for new designs.

The city replaced downstream pontoon piles last month, after refurbishing original upstream pontoons.

Other changes included an upgrade to pedestrian ramps and relocation of fish cleaning tables to improve pedestrian access and safety along the downstream jetty.

“Residents in and around Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula understand the importance that boating, fishing and other water-based activities hold for our community,” Cr Asher said at the start of works last year.

“The pontoons will make for ongoing easy access to a pristine part of the Barwon River and will ensure our community can capitalise on some of the terrific natural waterways within close proximity.”

The state government provided $370,000 across two different grant rounds to pay for the project, while the city provided funding support and project management resources.

The new structure has an expected design life of up to 50 years.

Ramp users have been requested to place large fish frames and other waste in bins provided onshore, and fishers must remove their lines from the water when a vessel approaches the pontoons.