Friday, 3 March 2023
The Andrews Labor Government is upgrading a popular pier in Williamstown to ensure it can continue to be enjoyed for years to come.
Minister for Ports and Freight and Member for Williamstown Melissa Horne today announced works to improve Gem Pier are now underway.
The works include installing new fenders along Gem Pier to provide safe access for berthing vessels and commercial ferries and ensure it remains an accessible destination for boaters.
The Labor Government is investing $1 million to upgrade the pier, with the installation of the new fenders to also prevent damage to the pier and vessels.
Gem Pier will remain open to the public while the upgrade takes place, with temporary fencing and signing to ensure public safety.
The pier’s low landing will also continue to service commercial tour operators, as well as ferries in operation between Williamstown, the city and St Kilda.
Victorian company Bridgewater Marine has been awarded the contract to deliver the works.
In addition, the Williamstown Local Port Area Plan is underway, with a draft to be released for public consultation in mid-2023.
The plan will set out priorities for future investment within the ‘on-water’ component of the Precinct and address challenges in the area – including the future of the Seaworks piers and jetties, wave wash and surge, sedimentation, and access for large vessels.
The Williamstown Local Port Area Plan will also build on the recently finalised Williamstown Maritime Precinct Framework and Williamstown Maritime Precinct Wave and Surge Study.
Community and stakeholder feedback has been sought by local port manager Parks Victoria, with technical investigations also carried out to seek ideas and capture the values and challenges within the Williamstown local port area. This input ensures the plan meets the needs of both existing and
future users of the area.
Consultant Urbis has been appointed to deliver the Williamstown Local Port Area Plan.
The Government has committed $40 million for rebuilds of piers and jetties at Dromana, St Leonards and Warneet under the More Piers, Jetties and Opportunities for Little Anglers announcement, as well as $6 million for critical repairs to Workshops Pier in Williamstown.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Ports and Freight and Member for Williamstown Melissa Horne
“Gem Pier is a popular destination for locals, boaters, commercial ferries in Williamstown – so this upgrade will provide a huge benefit and ensure the pier can continue to be enjoyed well into the
future.”
“By starting the local port area plan we will safeguard the future of Williamstown’s historic, popular and vibrant maritime precinct – and ensure it can continue to be enjoyed by fishers, boaters, locals and families.”
“We want to keep the community well informed as the plan progresses – so there will be consultation taking place mid-2023 and we encourage people to provide their feedback.”
Ends.
Media contact: melissa.horne@parliament.vic.gov.au
