Vital works to repair the Warrnambool Breakwater will soon begin, allowing closed sections of the facility to reopen to the public.
The Andrews Labor Government has invested $250,000 from the 2021/22 Local Port Program to deliver critical repairs to the iconic Warrnambool landmark at Lady Bay.
Repairs will begin shortly on rendering and replacing handrails to enable closed sections of the pedestrian walkway to be reopened for the community once again, following detailed assessment and planning.
Substantial works to replace an older section of the low landing deck will begin on-site after the peak summer period.
Significant damage to the Breakwater was caused by a storm in April 2021, forcing the closure of sections to ensure community safety.
The low landing repairs will support the local commercial fishing industry by allowing fishers to unload their catch and refuel their boats.
Warrnambool Breakwater was built between 1884 and 1890 and remains an icon of south-western Victoria, serving as a reminder of the rich maritime history of the Warrnambool area.
Breakwater rendering and works to repair the pedestrian walkway and low landing are now underway, with both repairs to be completed by early 2022.
Warrnambool's Lady Bay boat ramp is also receiving a vital upgrade improving access for locals and visitors who own trailer boats and head offshore to fish, dive and enjoy time on the water with family and friends.
The Government has funded a $3.5 million upgrade to boating facilities through the 2021/22 Budget with the project set to boost functionality and safety by resurfacing the two-lane ramp with grooved concrete slabs to make it safer when launching or retrieving boats.
New jetties will replace ageing wooden structures on either side of the ramp to provide more space for boats to be tied up, and improvements to rock revetments will provide added protection from wave action. Warrnambool City Council is managing the boat ramp upgrade project, with a tender expected to be awarded in early 2022.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Ports and Freight Melissa Horne
"Having seen the damage to the Breakwater firsthand in April, it was evident just how vital these works are to reviving this important asset."
"Warrnambool Breakwater is one of the most recognisable assets along Victoria's south west coastline – we know how important it is to the area – loved by locals and visitors alike."
Quote attributable to Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney
"These important works will go a long way to repair the storm damage to the Warrnambool Breakwater earlier this year and reopen this iconic local asset to pedestrians and anglers."
Reviewed 21 December 2021