The $1.45 million car parking upgrades to Torquay’s Fishermans Beach boat ramp facilities are now completed.
Featuring 24 car and trailer parking spaces, improved pedestrian crossings, shared pathway, kayak drop-off area, outdoor showers and low mobility parking, the new asphalt car park opened on Friday, November 1.
The upgrades were funded with $800,000 from the Victorian Government’s Better Boating Fund as $650,000 from the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action.
Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA) CEO Travis Dowling said the local community would welcome the upgrade.
“One of the fundamental elements to a good day on the water is being able to find a space for your car and trailer once you’ve launched, which is why we’re improving parking at ramps like this throughout the state,” he said.
“We look forward to seeing fishers launch here to fish for snapper, King George whiting, kingfish or dive for rock lobster and it’s the closest ramp to artificial reef modules installed in 2019 between Torquay and Breamlea to provide habitat for these species and more.”
Great Ocean Road Coastal and Parks Authority director of Infrastructure and Planning Cath Olive said the project had enhanced a much-loved community asset.
“We’re really excited to see this project come to life at Fishermans Beach,” she said.
“These improvements reflect our commitment to making coastal infrastructure more accessible and inclusive for all. It’s a great win for the community and for everyone who loves this beautiful spot.”