Waterway access improvements to come for locals

ACCESS improvements are on the way at a host of local beaches and waterways as part of the Andrews Labor Government investment into providing safer entry points to the local coastline.

Last month, Minister for Environment Ingrid Stitt announced that 16 new projects including at Ocean Grove, Lorne and Corio Bay would be supported through the government’s $1.1 milllion Coastal Public Access and Risk Grants program for 2022-23.

In partnership with the Barwon Coast Committee of Management Inc (Barwon Coast), the grants at Ocean Grove will help repair and replace paths, stairways, boardwalks and access ramps at 17W on the Barwon Heads-Ocean Grove Road and 36W which falls along Thirteenth Beach Road.

General Manager of Operations Barwon Coast, Paul Gangell said he was thankful that Barwon Coast’s grant requests had been approved to provide improved access for locals and visitors along the Bellarine stretch.

“The annual grants are a really important tool for small committees like Barwon Coast in funding capital work upgrades,” Gangell said.

“The ramp at 17W has been closed since mid-last year due to a significant storm and these funds will replace the beach access point and renew a connection with the much-used car park.

“Over at 36W, the access and stairway is at the end of its use and the upgrades will provide better viewing opportunities and access for the community.

“We hope both projects are open to the public before the next summer season.”

As part of the upgrades, Barwon Coast will contribute $32,520 to the 17W project and $52,000 towards the 36W project.

Safety upgrades are also on the way to repair the concrete ramp used by the Lorne Pier to Pub, allowing easier access for the 5,000 swimmers who take part each year.

Non-slip matting and signage is set to be installed as part of concrete surface repairs.

Over at Corio Bay safety assessments and planning work for future improvements are also set to be supported through the grants program.

For more information on the grants and to see full list of grant recipients, visit marineandcoasts.vic.gov.au/grants/coastal-public-access-and-risk-grants