Construction has begun on the huge boat ramp upgrade at Mahers Landing, backed by the Allan Labor Government's Better Boating Fund through boaters' registration and licence fees.
Minister for Outdoor Recreation Steve Dimopoulos announced works on the $4.2 million project to build a new boat ramp and jetty, which will make it easier for boaters to get out on the water and help free up the nearby Inverloch boat ramp.
Work will be completed in two stages across eight months, with boat ramp and jetty works underway and the development of a new parking area to follow.
Ageing facilities and a large tidal range at Mahers Landing mean the existing ramp provides limited access to Anderson Inlet and is only suitable for small vessels.
While the existing ramp will be retained, a new two-lane concrete ramp will be built and feature a jetty that caters up to 12 boats to be temporarily tied up depending on tidal conditions. The new ramp will be longer and steeper, providing access for a greater range of weather conditions.
Car park upgrades will occur in the second stage of the project, opening access to boating to more Victorians. Works will include dedicated disabled parking alongside 52 asphalted spaces to accommodate cars with trailers.
Better Boating Victoria is also progressing planning for future upgrades at Inverloch and construction is tracking well at the $2.8m upgrade at Cowes boat ramp on Phillip Island.
The ramp at Mahers Landing will be closed while construction is underway, with the nearest access at Inverloch. Boaters can assess conditions and parking at Inverloch via a live webcam on the free Boating Vic app or via boating.vic.gov.au.
For more information visit betterboating.vic.gov.au/mahers-landing.
As stated by Minister for Outdoor Recreation Steve Dimopoulos
"We're continuing to reinvest boaters' registration and licence fees into upgrades right around the state to make it easier for every Victorian to get out on the water."
"A bigger, better Mahers Landing boat ramp and carpark will be a real drawcard for the area, helping more families enjoy a day on the water to fish, tow a donut or just go for an afternoon cruise."
As stated by Member for Bass Jordan Crugnale
"These upgrades at Mahers Landing will make a big difference for our local and visiting boaters, windsurfers, kayakers making this popular spot an all tide access facility that will also help take pressure off the busy Inverloch ramp, when our region is at its busiest over spring and summer."
