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Local Ports Update
Edition 8 - January 2024
Welcome to the latest issue of local port news. At Parks Victoria we're constantly working to upgrade and improve facilities for the community, including boaters. If you venture out boating in Victoria this summer (and we hope you do), you might spot one of the many projects we're delivering! Now is also a great time to ensure boating checks are completed and get up to speed with the latest safety information, read on for the latest..
Delivering major marine projects
Piers and jetties form an integral part of many coastal community's identities and boost local economies by attracting more than 30 million annual visits. After decades of use, many of these popular structures are reaching the end of their service lives. With significant investment from the State Government, Parks Victoria is underway delivering major renewal works and upgrades at a number of locations.
St Kilda Pier The new pier is really taking shape. Work has progressed well during 2023 and involved demolishing the outer section of the old pier to make way for the new. The new pier is expected to welcome visitors back in 2024. Find out more. Find out more. |
Rye Pier We're nearing completion of the Rye Pier reconstruction, with Stage 2 to rebuild the outer sections of the pier and pier head. The pier has been reopened for the summer school holiday and will temporarily close again in February to safely complete final touches. Find out more. |
Altona Pier We are proud to announce the new Altona Pier has opened in time for summer, delivering a brand new asset to the community and visitors to enjoy. Find out more. |
Hampton Pier - demolition Just in time for the summer peak season we have removed the deteriorated and unsafe Hampton Pier to ensure that the area is clear for the busy on-water events this summer. We are now commencing detailed design for the replacement pier. Find out more. |
Maintaining port assets
Gem Pier - Williamstown
As part of ongoing improvements we've replaced fenders, sections of timber deck and capping at this bustling pier with minimal impacts to pedestrians, tour operators, and visiting ferries.
Tankerton Jetty - Western Port
Maintenance works at the Tankerton Jetty on French Island involved the replacement of deck boards, and handrail repairs on the northern lower landing to remediate slip, trip and fall hazards.
Aids to Navigation
In managing 1,000 aids to navigation within Port Phillip and Western Port, we delivered inspections, maintenance, and monitoring to approximately half the navigation aids in the state.
Remediation works occurred in West Channel, Port Phillip (pictured), where the top masts of five steel piles were replaced with newly fabricated top sections, inclusive of platform, ladders, top marks, signage, and installation of remotely monitored lanterns.
Berthing on our piers and jetties
Piers and jetties in Melbourne are multi-functional spaces, with many locations providing free temporary berthing for boat pick-up and drop-offs. Over the past decades, piers have become popular destinations for walking and fishing, however historically their role was to facilitate maritime activities. To assist boat operators, public piers that are suitable for berthing feature berthing signage, providing clear indicators of relevant time limits. Berthing signage is designed to help users easily understand and comply with the specific regulations for temporary berthing. Use these colours to determine where to visit to drop off or pick up passengers, or stop off at for a quick coffee. Find out more.
Boating App a one-stop shop!
If you're a boater heading out, prepare for the conditions ahead with the Boating Vic App. The useful app is your one-stop-shop for preparing to head out on Victorian waterways. Note: Internet connection is required to use Boating Vic.
Key features include:
- Ramp and carpark vision
- List of ramps and launching locations
- Localised weather information
- Facility and waterway information
- Weather and waterway warnings, alerts and notifications
- Safety advice
Marine protected areas
Parks Victoria manages 13 large Marine National Parks, and 11 smaller marine sanctuaries which contribute 5.3% of Victoria’s marine waters. Click here for insights about our treasured marine estate.
Visit piers safely
Never jump or dive off piers and jetties. Although it may seem harmless, the hidden obstructions that can lie beneath the surface. Conditions are always changing. Each year, approximately 35 new cases of spinal cord injury occur in Victoria due to water-related accidents. Avoid piers and jetties in poor weather, and always enter the water from the beach or the access points provided. Find out more.
Port Phillip Boating Guide
Scrub up on the must-know info before your next trip, with a free copy of the Port Phillip Recreational Boating Guide. From maps to information on local rules and navigation hazards, you’re sure to pick up useful info. Waterproof copies are available on request from Parks Victoria at info@parks.vic.gov.au or by calling 13 1963.
Changes to Marine Regulations
The updated Marine Safety Regulations 2023 regulations came into effect mid 2023, bringing safety enhancements for Victorian boaters.
Do you know which waters require mandatory carriage of distress flares and when a distress beacon is an appropriate substitute? Find out more.
Personal water craft (jet skis)
Personal watercraft (or jet skis) are a popular way of exploring and enjoying Victoria’s many beautiful waterways. It’s important that jet ski riders drive safely while having fun on the water.
Most riders do the right thing, but some don’t follow the speed and distance rules all boaters must meet for their safety and the safety of others. Learn more
From MSAR to Air Ambulance Paramedic
Meet Andrew Allen, from MSAR to air ambulance paramedic. Andrew explains how volunteering with MSAR taught him skills that he's been able to carry into his professional career. Learn more.
If you require police attendance in relation to marine incidents including Personal Water Craft (PWC) complaints, call Triple Zero (000). For general advice, contact the Water Police Office on (03) 9399 7500.
Future planning for local ports
We’re planning ahead to make Melbourne's key maritime precincts safer and more accessible by developing local port area plans at priority locations.
Local Port Area Plans for Sorrento, St. Leonards, and Rhyll are all approaching their community consultation phase in 2024 so subscribe and have your say!
Community consultation on the Williamstown and Mornington local port area plans has closed and the final plans are in preparation.
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Parks Victoria, Level 10, 535 Bourke St,
Melbourne VIC 3000 Australia,
Phone 13 1963
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