Tender decided for multi-million dollar ferry terminal

THE Queenscliff Ferry Terminal’s multi-million-dollar redevelopment is closer to fruition with the tender being awarded to Kane Constructions Pty Ltd.

Under the Geelong City Deal, the $15.9 million upgrade is set to address travellers’ needs by providing modern facilities and bathrooms, safer access, improved car parking and opportunities for trade including cafes and tourism ventures.

The project comes as an enhancement to the existing ferry service which connects travellers to Geelong and the Great Ocean Road as a major tourism gateway.

Senator for Victoria Sarah Henderson said the Geelong City Deal has delivered major projects unlocking the region’s potential during a critical recovery period.

“I congratulate the successful tenderer, Kane Constructions, which is responsible for a number of significant developments in Geelong including the Geelong Arts Centre, the Geelong Library, the NDIA headquarters and the transformation of the Kardinia Park stadium,” she said.

“This terminal upgrade will provide a welcomed economic boost to tourists and locals alike, creating 63 new jobs during construction and 22 ongoing jobs.”

The redevelopment is jointly funded with the Morrison Government contributing $10 million and Searoad Ferries putting forward $5.9 million.

The Searoad Ferries service has been connecting Melburnians to Queenscliff since 1987 and carries more than 900,000 people and 250,000 vehicles every year, making it the busiest car and passenger ferry in Australia.

CEO at Searoad Ferries Matt McDonald said the upgrades will create a world-class experience for their passengers.

“The development of a new ferry terminal at Queenscliff offers significant benefits to visitors, including safer access for pedestrians, high quality experiences and improved disability access,” he said.

“The terminal will deliver new jobs in the construction phase, and a major economic boost for the region.”

During the final stage of redevelopment, an upper level will be constructed on the terminal building to deliver works on the roof, lift, boardwalk as well as other outdoor elements.

The project is also on track to deliver a new public boardwalk when the ferry terminal is completed in September next year.

The Geelong City Deal is a $382.48 million commitment between the federal government, state government and the City of Greater Geelong to revitalise the city and economy by capitalising on its natural assets and encouraging visitors to spend more time in the region.

Acting Member for Bellarine Gayle Tierney said the redevelopment made possible by the deal which will generate new jobs in the hospitality industry, providing additional opportunities for young people.

“The Geelong City Deal continues to provide both social and economic benefits for the community,” she said.