Contractor named as demolition looms at Point Grey

A CONTRACTOR has been appointed to deliver the Point Grey redevelopment in Lorne, with the announcement coming just days before demolition is due to begin at the site.

Works on the long-planned project, which has been repeatedly revised over more than a decade, are scheduled to start in early February.

The Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority (GORCAPA) said Bowden Corporation was selected through a competitive tender process to complete the works, which are funded through the $676 million Geelong City Deal.

The Victorian construction firm has offices in Geelong and Warrnambool and is expected to use local subcontractors during the build.

After years of back-and-forth, the Lorne Aquatic and Angling Club and the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority in October agreed on a new clubhouse design. Image: SUPPLIED

“We look forward to working with Bowden Corporation to deliver the Point Grey redevelopment,” GORCAPA chief executive Christine Ferguson said.

“It is going to be a fantastic refresh of the site that has been shaped by extensive community engagement.”

The redevelopment will include changes to traffic flow and parking across the precinct, new public open space and walking paths, and upgraded facilities for visitors, community events and fishing.

An impression of the new-look Point Grey precinct in Lorne. Image: SUPPLIED

Plans also include a new Fisherman’s Cooperative Building with a hospitality venue, public toilets and display spaces for the Lorne Historical Society, and a new Aquatic and Angling Club building with an outdoor area and a public fish-cleaning facility.

After years of disagreement over design and function, the Lorne Aquatic and Angling Club backed the final plans for its new clubhouse in October, describing them as sympathetic to the existing building.

But opposition remains over the planned demolition of the Fisherman’s Cooperative Building, with locals and heritage advocates still campaigning for works to be delayed while alternative options are explored.

Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos said the redevelopment would reshape one of the Great Ocean Road’s most recognisable foreshore sites.

“This project will be a major improvement to an iconic spot along the Great Ocean Road,” he said.

“It will deliver a boost to local tourism by attracting more visitors and create new open spaces for the local community to enjoy.”

Major works across the precinct are expected to continue through to mid-2026.

GORCAPA said Bowden Corporation will explore all options to maintain community access to the Doug Stirling Track, Lorne pier and boat ramp during construction.