LOCAL and travelling fishers and boaters will benefit from better facilities and improved access to the Gippsland Lakes, after the state government announced a major upgrade for the Seacombe boat ramp.
Fishing and Boating Minister Melissa Horne on Friday announced the popular boat ramp would receive a $435,000 makeover.
The improvements will deliver better access to McLennan Strait, with a new six metre-wide, all-tide boat ramp and new fish cleaning facilities with a solar-powered pump and lights.
The works will include the construction of a new accessible platform, allowing people to enjoy fishing at the landing, and new pathways and lighting.
To prevent erosion, work will be done to stabilise the adjacent banks, including replacing existing concrete sheet piling.
The boat ramp is popular among recreational fishers and boaters because of its central location in the Gippsland Lakes and the natural shelter provided by McLennan Strait, which joins Lake Victoria and Lake Wellington and provides sheltered access for boaters in all weather conditions.
The project will be funded through a $404,000 Boating Safety and Facilities Program grant, with Wellington Shire Council stumping up money for the remainder of the project.
“This is a really exciting upgrade for both locals and tourists who love getting out on the water to explore and enjoy the Gippsland Lakes,” Ms Horne said.
“We’ll work together with the council and with the local community throughout the design process, to make sure these upgrades improve safety, sustainability and accessibility for all.”
Eastern Victoria MLC Jane Garrett said the works would provide an economic boost for the region and ensure boaters and fishers had better access and more modern facilities for generations to come.
“We’ve listened to the concerns of the local community and taken action to upgrade this very popular ramp,” she said.
The project is entering the planning phase, and is expected to be completed by November next year.
