Works to improve safety at two treasured Bellarine Peninsula jetties are complete ahead of the peak summer holiday season so locals, tourists, boaters and anglers can enjoy them for decades to come.

Minister for Ports and Freight Melissa Horne today joined Bellarine MP Alison Marchant at Barwon Heads to inspect the $140,000 maintenance project funded by the Victorian Government’s Local Ports Program and delivered by the Barwon Coast Committee of Management.

Main Jetty has been a focal-point in the town for more than 60 years – new timber deck, fixings, and handrails will ensure it remains a popular spot for pedestrians and recreational anglers.

Nearby Ozone Jetty, constructed in 1978, has undergone repairs to the timber deck, support beams and handrails to ensure it is ready for the thousands of visitors expected throughout summer.

The Barwon Coast Committee of Management manages the jetties and other infrastructure, and 19 kilometres of the Bellarine Peninsula’s coastal Crown land reserves for use and enjoyment by all.

Victoria’s piers and jetties span Port Phillip and Western Port, and our spectacular coastline – they are important focal-points for communities, businesses, boaters, anglers and help drive our local economies.

The Government announced $46 million in the Victorian Budget 2023-24, so critical works can take place at other piers and jetties across the state including St Leonards Pier, Williamstown’s Workshops Pier and Dromana Pier.

It follows previous investment for rebuilding and critical works to piers and jetties at Altona, Flinders, Hampton, Mornington, Lakes Entrance, McLoughlins Beach, Raymond Island, Rye, St Kilda and Williamstown (Gem Pier).

Quote attributable to Minister for Ports and Freight Melissa Horne MP

“We’re repairing and improving our piers and jetties so locals and visitors can make the most of these landmarks which we know are critical for recreation and tourism in our coastal communities.‘’

Quote attributable to Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant

“These maintenance works will ensure Main and Ozone Jetties will remain focal-points where families and friends gather to enjoy the best of the Bellarine Peninsula for decades to come.‘’