Wednesday, 13 December 2023
Local anglers and boaters are welcoming summer even more warmly this year following the completion of a major upgrade of the Williamstown and Newport Anglers Club Jetty.
The jetty, which was built in the 1944 and last refurbished in the 1970s, has been transformed over recent months with $500,000 from the Victorian Government’s West Gate Neighbourhood Fund for the much-needed revamp.
The upgrade delivered vital structural improvements to the jetty, including new piles, cross beams, decking, and handrails, while it also features a modular floating pontoon.
The jetty has also been made more wheelchair friendly, so people with a disability and the elderly can now enjoy greater access to use the facilities and undertake water-related activities.
The Williamstown Jetty has been an important recreational hub for the local community for almost 70 years and remains popular with anglers, kayakers, swimmers and boat users involved in the Williamstown and Newport Anglers’ Club.
The $10 million West Gate Neighbourhood Fund grants and partnerships program was established to support inner west communities during construction of the West Gate Tunnel Project and improve community connection.
The fund has already supported 128 community projects valued at more than $8.5 million across Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay, including the refurbishment of the Williamstown Beach Jetty.
Applications for 2023 have closed, but there will be a final round of funding in early 2024.
To find out about the West Gate Neighbourhood Fund, or to apply for funding, visit: www.westgatetunnelproject.vic.gov.au/neighbourhoodfund
Quote attributable to Member for Williamstown, Melissa Horne MP
“The jetty has been an important recreational hub for the local community for more than 70 years, and this much-needed upgrade will ensure it continues to be enjoyed by anglers, boat users and swimmers for decades to come.”
“The West Gate Neighbourhood Fund is all about making sure our community benefits from the West Gate Tunnel Project sooner, rather than later, and this upgrade is a terrific example of that.”
Quote attributable to Lindsay Morton, Williamstown and Newport Anglers’ Club Committee Member
“This new jetty gives our community and club members easier, more accessible, and safer access to the bay. It will help us attract a younger generation of members and allow even more anglers to get involved.”
Ends.
Media contact: melissa.horne@parliament.vic.gov.au
