Dredge time ‘terrible’

By Michelle Herbison
A DREDGING project has closed Clifton Springs’ boat ramps with “terrible timing” for the fishing industry, according to an anglers’ representative.
Fishing Geelong’s John Hotchin said the closure of the ramp in the middle of the snapper season was “frustrating like hell”.
Authorities should have conducted the $143,000 project about three months ago, he said.
“This work would have been better done in July-August not October-November.
“The boat ramp’s been very difficult to use for quite some time. You can get in and out at half to three-quarter tide but not in low tide because the sands have all shifted.”
City of Greater Geelong announced the ramp would be closed from October 24 to Monday, with restricted access on weekends.
Mr Hotchin said the closest decent boat ramp in the area was at Pt Richards.
“Having Clifton Springs closed will be a major problem for the next few weeks.”
Mr Hotchin said Clifton Springs was usually busy at this time of year with tourists wanting to fish.
“Most weekends you’d find it difficult to get a car park there.”
City environment manager Rodney Thomas said the availability of contractors and equipment had determined the timing of the work.
“We have taken all measures to ensure the works will have minimal impact on neighbouring residents and the surrounding environment.”
Mr Thomas said the dredging was essential because the harbour had become shallow with a natural build-up of sediment, hampering boat access at low tide.
The work would be finished in two weeks but would probably have to be repeated in about four or five years, he said.
“The City is committed to improving and maintaining its boat harbours and launching facilities and apologises if works commissioned to achieve this objective result in any inconvenience.”
Department of Sustainability and Environment’s Greg Leece said he recognised the importance of the boat harbour to the community.