The development of a Precinct Plan for the Apollo Bay Harbour Redevelopment will be supported by Antarctica Architects.
The Melbourne-based practice was chosen as Head Consultant for the project, after we received and evaluated applications via a competitive tender process.
The $12.61 million project is fully funded by the Australian Government and being delivered as part of the Geelong City Deal.
It will provide an improved visitor experience and broaden the commercial and recreational opportunities in the harbour precinct.
With almost 20 years' experience, Antarctica Architects has completed a variety of public and private work, recently winning a national award for its design of the Boronggook Drysdale Library.
It has also created the Salvation Army's Dandenong hub and is currently working on the redevelopment of the Gippsland Lakes Yacht Club.
The appointment of the Head Consultant follows the completion of an independent review of the Apollo Bay Harbour Development Plan 2020, developed by Colac Otway Shire Council.
In conjunction with the Authority, Antarctica Architects will work with key stakeholders to progress the delivery of the project by preparing the precinct plan and architectural designs for key elements of the Harbour.
They will work closely with Traditional Owners to respect the cultural values of the land and waters and with the Apollo Bay Fishermen's Cooperative to deliver improvements to the port.
In line with our best practice community engagement principles, the Authority will receive public input into this stage of the process via the new Community Reference Group (CRG).
The CRG will share the community's values and aspirations and consider how these can align with best practices in coastal infrastructure.
The Geelong City Deal is a partnership between all three levels of government that is focused on activating shared spaces and regional economies in the region.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Regional Development, Kristy McBain:
"Apollo Bay is one of the most sought after tourist destinations in Victoria, which is why we want to capitalise on everything that it has to offer.
"It's fantastic to see this harbour redevelopment progressing, because it will unlock new job opportunities for locals, stimulate the Apollo Bay economy, and entice more people from Australia and across the world to experience this beautiful part of regional Victoria."
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Corangamite, Libby Coker:
"Apollo Bay is more than a pit stop - it's a tourist mecca, which is why the Albanese Government is fully funding this harbour redevelopment.
"We want visitors to stay longer and explore more of our region, which is exactly what this project will support - while creating new employment and economic opportunities for locals."
Quotes attributable to Victorian Minister for Regional Development, Gayle Tierney:
"The Apollo Bay Harbour Redevelopment is vital to the future of Apollo Bay and will strengthen the recreation, tourism, and economic opportunities in the region.
"This is another significant milestone in the Apollo Bay Harbour Redevelopment, and I look forward to seeing this project deliver for local business and the community."
Quotes attributable to Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority Acting CEO, Cath Olive:
"I'm looking forward to the Authority, Antarctica Architects and the Community Reference Group working together to ensure the upgrades deliver for local businesses, harbour users and the community.
"This major initiative is gathering momentum, and we are building towards releasing plans to the public. The Community Reference Group will help to inform the draft precinct plan, with the wider community then invited to provide input into it.
"We want to create quality commercial, tourism and recreation opportunities in the precinct, in line with planning and environmental controls."
Quotes attributable to Apollo Bay Fishermen's Cooperative Chair, Markus Nolle:
"We are delighted that the award-winning team at Antarctica Architects have been selected for this important and iconic project in Apollo Bay.
"We are passionate about our sustainable fishing industry and with the right partners we can deliver a world class 'Bass Strait to Plate' experience for locals and visitors alike."
