Portarlington achievements highlighted at latest business functions

THE Portarlington ferry, redevelopment of the local hotel and pier, and upcoming festivals were the hot topics at a recent function hosted by the town’s business association.
A total of 240 people attended the Portarlington Business Development Association’s May function at Jack Rabbit restaurant last week, which was held over two nights to cater for the high numbers.
During the events, operations director of Little Group Murray Rance introduced his team and spoke in detail about the positive progress achieved by the Portarlington to Docklands ferry service, as well as the exciting redevelopment of the Portarlington Grand Hotel.
PBDA president John Rae said Mr Rance shared images of the redeveloped hotel and said how excited both he and Paul Little were at the prospect of bringing the “Grand Old Lady” back to her prime.
Mr Rance said every effort was being taken to restore original heritage features such as verandahs, balustrading, hand rails, fireplaces, leadlight windows and grand staircase.
It is planned that the restored tower will be lit up at night providing a landmark from the bay.
Mr Rae said the Grand Hotel when finished would attract large numbers of people who would travel on the ferry from Docklands to Portarlington, enjoy a beautiful lunch and then return across the bay to Docklands.
“What a grand way to fill a day,” he said.
Mr Rance then talked about the positive impact of the Portarlington Pier rebuild, which will have a covered walkway and waiting space.
He completed his presentation by commenting on the importance of community in a small town and becoming involved in local community activities, which the Little Group has done being a major sponsor of the Portarlington Football and Netball Club.
National Celtic Festival director Una McAlindenthen announced the event would proceed in a smaller way, but nevertheless would still be mighty with a strong line-up of performers.
Unfortunately, it was announced due to the current lockdown they would be unable to hold it on the Queen’s Birthday weekend – this will be reassessed once the lockdown is lifted.
Richard Underwood then presented the Mussel Festival outline for January 2022. Currently, it will proceed providing COVID does not interfere.
The mussel festival is a key component for local businesses and the money raised usually provides around $28,000 each year back to the community.
Mr Rae said the other exciting development in Portarlington was that there would be art laneways, with the first one being on the walls of the Community Bank and Hive, which would begin in June.
Mr Rae also spoke about the Christmas Gift program, which last year supplied 20 families with $700 each.
“This was the largest amount we have distributed and highlights once again the generosity of the businesses in Portarlington,” he said.