Work has begun at Ocean Grove’s Guthridge Street boat ramp, which will receive a much-needed suite of facility upgrades over the next year.
The project seeks to improve access to the Barwon River for local boating enthusiasts after both the upstream and downstream pontoons at the boat ramp sustained significant storm damage through 2020 and 2021, rendering them unusable.
The downstream pontoon will be replaced after receiving a $120,00 grant from Better Boating Victoria’s (BBV) 2021-22 Recreational Boating Structural Maintenance Program, while a further $250,000 provided by BBV will fund the refurbishment of the upstream pontoon.
The project will also see improved pedestrian access for fishing, a new platform for the fish cleaning facility and a structure for the launching and retrieval of boats, with the City providing in-kind and funding support including project management.
Bellarine MP Lisa Neville said the upgrades were an important investment in the region.
“These new pontoons will provide a great facility for recreational boaters and make it easier for the Coast Watch Marine Rescue Ocean Grove, which has passionately advocated for the upgrade, to carry out its important work,” she said.
“The government continues to invest in upgraded facilities like this to make it easier for families to get out on the water and enjoy time spent in the great outdoors.”
Bellarine Ward councillor Stephanie Asher said the project was a win for local and visiting boating enthusiasts.
“Residents in and around Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula understand the importance that boating, fishing and other water-based activities hold for our community,” Cr Asher said.
“The pontoons will make for ongoing easy access to a pristine part of the Barwon River and will ensure our community can capitalise on some of the terrific natural waterways within close proximity.”
