Friday, 7 July 2023
Locals and visitors alike will again be able to enjoy Workshops Pier in Williamstown’s historic maritime precinct, thanks to Andrews Labor Government funding for restoration and repair works.
Minister for Ports and Freight Melissa Horne said the $6 million package announced in the Victorian Budget 2023/24 would breathe new life into the pier, ensuring the much-loved local landmark can be enjoyed for generations to come.
Workshops Pier has long been a focal point in Williamstown and is part of a working port that showcases Victoria’s maritime history – however, the pier was closed in 2021 in the interests of public safety.
Workshops Pier is managed by Seaworks and Parks Victoria, with the site acting as Melbourne’s key berthing location for visiting tall ships and large vessels.
This comes after the recent upgrade of nearby Gem Pier in Williamstown, which has seen new fenders installed to provide safe access for berthing vessels and commercial ferries, ensuring it remains an accessible destination for boaters.
Repairs to Workshops are also supported by the Williamstown Maritime Precinct Framework. Released last year, the Framework sets out a vision to guide future opportunities for the precinct, including improving public amenity and access, activating community spaces and strengthening communities.
The Labor Government announced $46 million in the Victorian Budget 2023/24, so critical works can take place at other popular piers and jetties across the state including Warneet North and South Jetties, St Leonards Pier, and Dromana Pier.
It follows further investments for rebuilding and critical works to piers and jetties at Rye, Raymond Island, Lakes Entrance, McLoughlins Beach, Flinders, Mornington and Hampton.
Planning for works at Workshops Pier have commenced.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Ports and Freight and Member for Williamstown Melissa Horne
“We’re making this Williamstown landmark safe and accessible, so residents and tourists can again enjoy the best our suburb has to offer, including exploring the rich maritime history.’’
“Across Victoria, we are continuing the revitalisation of our important piers and jetties – ensuring they can be enjoyed by communities, boaters, anglers and tourists for generations to come.’’
Ends.
Media contact: melissa.horne@parliament.vic.gov.au
