McKiterick pledges more for local boaties and fishers

BELLARINE’S waterways are weekend playgrounds to millions of Victorians and tourists.

That’s why a Liberal Nationals Government has pledged to create a Blue Infrastructure Fund to provide first-class infrastructure and services for recreational water users like more boat ramps, jetties, navigational lighting as well as onshore facilities such as bigger car parks and cleaning tables.

Liberal Candidate for Bellarine Brian McKiterick said, “At the moment, Victorian boat users pay significant fees to the state government every year but only a portion of that money is invested into better infrastructure and services for water users”.

He said under a Liberal Nationals Government, the Blue Infrastructure Fund would return all proceeds of collected boating fees into improving the facilities for the boating community.

“The Liberal Nationals’ plan for a Blue Infrastructure Fund is a game changer for our area,” Mr McKiterick said.

“This plan looks to preserve and protect the Bellarine Peninsula and the Surf Coast now and into the future.

“This will help with more investment in local boating infrastructure projects and that means more visitors, boat users and more local jobs.

“If you are like me, and give a damn about our bay, please join us to protect and develop this beautiful asset.”

A Liberal Nationals Government will appoint the Victorian Ports Corporation Melbourne (VPCM) to manage marine infrastructure development in the state.

The VPCM has the appropriate expertise to oversee and coordinate all planning, funding, construction and maintenance of marine infrastructure in Victoria – this is modelled on the New South Wales system.

Recreational boating is estimated to contribute $4.5 billion to the Victorian economy each year.