State Government is giving $4 million to Geelong’s $19 million safe harbour roject – short of the anticipated $6 million.
Royal Geelong Yacht Club had hoped to also get $7 million from Federal Government.
That request will now have to increase by $2 million to cover the State Government shortfall.
City council has already pledged $3 million toward the stage-one upgrade of the project. The club is also putting in $3 million.
Federal Government has yet to publicly support the project. The club will apply for the money from the Government’s National Stronger Regions Fund.
Minister for Environment and Bellarine MP Lisa Neville said the project would be “transformational” for Geelong’s waterfront.
“We now call on the Federal Government to provide funding to see this vital project become a reality,” Ms Neville said.
She said the safe harbour initiative would bring economic and tourism benefits to Geelong, including creating a number of jobs in the region.
“The project will help improve community and recreational facilities in the area and increase public access to the open space of the Geelong waterfront.”
Minister for Tourism and Major Events and Lara MP John Eren said the waterfront was already a popular destination with visitors.
“This upgrade will create renewed opportunities for local businesses and grow Geelong’s reputation as a world-class destination,” he said.
The project includes a curved 280-metre long ‘wave attenuator’ to protect berthed vessels.
The upgrade would also rebuild the club’s premises and deliver other facilities while improving public access to the site.
The yacht club estimates the project will create more than 100 full-time and casual jobs, along with a similar amount during construction.
