A major upgrade of Metung's Shaving Point boat ramp will make it easier for locals and visiting boaters to enjoy a day out on the water at the iconic Gippsland Lakes, with construction set to start within weeks.
Minister for Outdoor Recreation Sonya Kilkenny announced the project tender has been awarded to Carter Marine Group Pty Ltd, a local East Gippsland contractor.
The project will build a new floating pontoon to provide all-abilities access to the western side of the ramp. A new structure featuring wave screens will also replace the eastern side of the ramp. The two-lane concrete ramp and adjoining apron will also be resurfaced.
The Andrews Labor Government contributed more than $570,000 to the project, through the investment of boating licence and registration fees through the Labor Government's Better Boating Fund.
East Gippsland Shire Council invested a further $286,7000 in the project and will manage construction. Work is expected to begin in June and be complete in spring.
While the council oversees the works, boaters are encouraged to access the water at Johnsonville or at Nungurner ramp at Bancroft Bay. Access to Lake King is also available from ramps at Lakes Entrance, Nicholson and Paynesville.
Better Boating Victoria has also invested in projects at Raymond Island, North Arm and Apex Park, bolstering the region's standing as one of the state's most popular boating destinations.
While more temporary tie-up space is providing room for more boaters at Raymond Island jetty, an all-abilities gangway at the North Arm ramp will support the community with better access. There are also ongoing plans for an accessible pontoon at the nearby Apex Park ramp.
As stated by Minister for Outdoor Recreation Sonya Kilkenny
"The Gippsland Lakes are synonymous with boating which is why we're investing licence and registration fees to give more families great experiences on the water for many years to come."
"The upgrade at Metung will mean more capacity at the ramp with extra space to tie up, a new ramp surface and provisions for all-abilities access so everyone can enjoy what the Lakes have to offer."
As stated by Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh
"We're so lucky to have a wide variety of boating experiences here in East Gippsland and the development at Metung will complement improvements at North Arm, Seacombe, and further east at Cape Conran."
As stated by East Gippsland Shire Council Mayor Mark Reeves
"Recreational boating is an important part of the East Gippsland lifestyle and visitor experience. This Council manages 31 boat launching facilities across the shire and values the partnership and funding from the Victorian Government in assisting to maintain and upgrade these important facilities."
