GEELONG has plenty of reasons to be in good spirits with Tasmania\u2019s iconic ferry one step closer to docking in the region.<\/p>\n
Earlier in the year GeelongPort and TT-Line Company confirmed the relocation of The Spirit of Tasmania vessels from Port Melbourne to its new home at Corio Quay.<\/p>\n
The move to Geelong waters has now progressed with the City providing planning approval for vehicle access at the new location.<\/p>\n
The plans will include separate entrances for freight and car passengers, a terminal, and an upgraded parking area.<\/p>\n
City of Greater Geelong Mayor Stephanie Asher has worked in collaboration with major stakeholders in the planning process to ensure the relocation of the ferry to regional waters.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019m pleased that the City has been able to facilitate this recent progress, in accordance with all relevant planning considerations and in partnership with the Department of Transport,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
The project is set to create up to 75 constructions jobs over the two-year build while increasing tourism expenditure in the region by up to $174.1 million by 2029.<\/p>\n
GeelongPort CEO Brett Winter said the relocation is a huge coup for the Geelong region.<\/p>\n
\u201cEach year over 450,000 passengers and 105,000 twenty\u2013foot equivalent units of freight sail with Spirit of Tasmania.<\/p>\n
\u201cNow more than ever, opportunities to inject new jobs and economic growth into the greater Geelong region are crucial,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Mayor Asher said the City will continue to work closely with GeelongPort over the next few months as they finalise the design for the new terminal precinct.<\/p>\n
\u201cHaving the Spirit of Tasmania berthing in Geelong will bring unparalleled tourism opportunities and economic benefit to our region.\u201d<\/p>\n
The relocation is expected to be complete by 2022.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
GEELONG has plenty of reasons to be in good spirits with Tasmania\u2019s iconic ferry one step closer to docking in the region. Earlier in the year GeelongPort and TT-Line Company confirmed the relocation of The Spirit of Tasmania vessels from Port Melbourne to its new home at Corio Quay. The move to Geelong waters has […]<\/p>\n