Upgrades complete at Apollo Bay harbour

STATE government-funded upgrades to Apollo Bay’s harbour are now complete.

The improvements at the harbour includes a new slipway cradle, which pulls boats out of the water, to make it safer and easier for vessels to be maintained and enter the harbour.

A new oil waste disposal facility has also been built, allowing vessel owners and port managers to collect and safely dispose of waste oil at no cost to users, to protect our important marine environment.

New CCTV cameras have also been installed at the harbour to improve public safety and protect important port infrastructure.

The upgrades to the facilities are seen as vital for supporting the local economy, with the harbour’s commercial fishing industry alone generating about $6.5 million per year.

The local port manager, Colac Otway Shire, received $150,000 in funding from the state government for the upgrades to be carried out.

“Apollo Bay Harbour is a popular destination for boaters, fishers and visitors – which is why our investment in these upgrades is critical to boost safety and ensure the harbour can continue to be used and enjoyed well into the future,” Minister for Ports and Freight Melissa Horne said.

The state government is also putting funding towards repairs to be carried out on the Apollo Bay Lee Breakwater, with planning for the project under way.

“These upgrades benefit the entire community – keeping Apollo Bay Harbour safe, as well as improving access for all vessels,” Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney said.

The harbour’s origin dates back to 1952, when workers redeveloped a pier that stretched out into the bay.

Further improvements, including a $1.6 million upgrade of the old timber marina with a floating marina pontoon system, has boosted economic opportunities, safety and access for all users.

Today, the harbour is home to a local fishing industry and commercial fleet which employs more than 70 people and boasts 16 boats, including trawlers, crayfish and charter boats.

Enclosed by two large breakwaters, the harbour contains a main wharf with marina berths, which fishermen and boat users lease for an annual fee, while a causeway enables access to boats.

The project has been funded through the Local Ports Program, which adds to an $18 million package for rebuilding and maintenance works to be carried out on piers and jetties across Victoria from the 2022-23 State Budget.