Next steps announced for Fishos mixed-site

THE community will soon get to learn more about the future of the mixed-use site above the Torquay Angling Club, following significant interest shown for the site and how it will be used moving forward.

Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority has opened a second round of community engagement to further determine the future use of the site located at Fishermans Beach.

The site was licensed to a commercial food and beverage operator for the past seven years on a trial basis, while still allowing for community access to the beach viewing platform.

The Authority initiated the first round of public engagement In August, which drew significant interest.

The “Have Your Say” webpage received 615 visits, 170 survey responses and 92 community members attended in-person drop-in sessions.

“Feedback shows just how much the community values Fishos, with strong support for maintaining both community spaces and hospitality offerings at the site,” Authority acting director of infrastructure and planning Shane Blacket said.

“Fishos is incredibly popular, whether it’s for catching up with friends or family, taking part in a local parkrun, or simply enjoying the great views.”

The mixed-use site is highly valued by the community according to public feedback, with 98 per cent of respondents rating it as somewhat to very important.

There was also strong support for the continuation of commercial offerings at the site, including keeping it a rooftop food and beverage area.

The Authority now seeks further public feedback on draft concepts until midnight on Tuesday, November 5.

Alongside an online survey, community information sessions will be held at:

• 6:30am to 9am on Friday, October 25 at the Salty Dog Cafe
• 5pm to 7pm on Saturday, October 26 at Bomboras Beach Bar.

“A key theme in the recent feedback was the importance of preserving the open-air, casual, surf-town vibe, as well as the stunning views of the beach,” Mr Blacket said.

“We’ve now released draft concepts for the mixed-use site, and we encourage everyone to take a look and have their say.”

More information on the project and information sessions can be found at haveyoursay.greatoceanroadauthority.vic.gov.au/fishos-platform