Rhyll's major boating facility upgrade is a step closer, after Bass Coast Shire Council awarded the construction contract for the project at its May Council Meeting.
Simpson Construction was awarded the contract for works, which will be delivered over the next year - with land-based works starting in June this year and marine-based construction to take place after summer next year, to minimise disruption during the peak season.
The State Government has provided $4.5 million for the upgrades, which will see the existing boat ramp replaced with a three-lane ramp extending deeper into the bay, allowing for all-tide operation and making it easier to launch and retrieve vessels.
A new dedicated kayak/yacht/canoe facility for non-powered craft will also be constructed in order to provide separated launching from motorised vessels.
The project will also include the construction of two new jetties with two new pontoons, further increasing the ramp's capacity. The car park will be upgraded, to improve traffic flow and include a dedicated boat wash down area and preparation areas so boaters can attach tie-down straps and motor brackets out of the way.
Bass Coast Shire Mayor, Cr Brett Tessari, said following the establishment of Better Boating Victoria, Council has proactively engaged with State Government to identify key boating infrastructure projects in the Shire and has advocated for their development.
"We welcome the State Government's focus to prioritise funding towards these projects, such as the redevelopment of Rhyll's boating facilities," Cr Tessari.
"This is a significant and exciting project, which will improve access and safety for our boating community and support the businesses, community groups and social benefits associated with recreational boating."
Plans for this project were developed in close consultation with the local community, Council, the State Government, Better Boating Victoria, the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, Parks Victoria and Maritime Safety Victoria.
