General News
28 May, 2021
Budget delivers $2.5M for ramp
THERE were smiles all round last week as the Victorian State Budget revealed the long-awaited Lake Bullen Merri boat ramp upgrade would proceed.
THERE were smiles all round last week as the Victorian State Budget revealed the long-awaited Lake Bullen Merri boat ramp upgrade would proceed.
Minister for Fishing and Boating Melissa Horne confirmed the allocation last week, which follows a recent visit to the area where she said she would campaign for funding for the upgrades.
“We are excited to be delivering upgrades at Lake Bullen Merri – a popular fishing destination for both locals and visitors,”she said.
“The upgrades will include a new boat ramp, pontoon, improved turning circle and an underwater retaining wall to minimise future impacts of sedimentation – meaning better facilities for those coming to experience the waters of the south-west.
“These investments not only provide better facilities for locals – but also supports local jobs.”
The 2021-22 State Budget saw an allocation of $2.5 million for the project.
BMT Engineering prepared a feasibility study and functional design for the boat ramp at Lake Bullen Merri to explore options to improve and upgrade the facility.
This initiative will be funded from the Better Boating Fund – established under the Marine Safety Amendment (Better Boating Fund) Act 2020, which was passed by Parliament in November 2020.
The Better Boating Fund was established specifically for the purpose of providing funding for boating facilities, safety and education. Clearly identifying this in the budget ensures commitment to delivery of this important project.
Works will be progressed by the Corangamite Shire Council in conjunction with the South Beach Foreshore Committee of Management.
South Beach Foreshore Committee of Mangement chairman Phil Russell said those involved in the project were “ecstatic” about the funding announcement.
“It’s been a long process,” he said.
“We’re very excited for the local community to have this process get to this point to deliver a fantastic facility.”
Mr Russell said various user groups had been involved in the project.
“There’s been a lot of work put in on behalf of a lot of people,” he said.
“The user groups have got together to work out the issues.”
Residents interested in becoming involved in the committee were encouraged to contact Mr Russell on 0439 540 457.