Harbour revamp vision tweaked
ROYAL Geelong Yacht Club has revised its major redevelopment plans as it seeks government funding to realise its dream.
The council on Wednesday night renewed its $3 million commitment to the safe harbour project, which still needs to gain $7.5 million to proceed with stage one works.
The council had agreed in December last year to provide $3 million towards the $19 million initiative, which suffered a blow when the Federal Government knocked back a funding bid.
The yacht club is now pursuing a $13.5 million modified version, after dumping a new $5.73 million clubhouse from its stage one plans.
It retains the $3.5 million Victorian Sailing School, wave attenuator, public space improvements and additional marina berths.
Chief administrator Kathy Alexander said the council’s commitment would be in place until December 2018.
That would allow time to gain funding from other sources, including the State Government, she said.
“This is a vitally important project for the city, as the waterfront is one of our most accessible and public landmarks,” Dr Alexander said.
“This development will result in more open spaces for public enjoyment, bringing many more visitors to our city and contribute to boosting tourism.”
The club’s existing marina has 250 berths, which are at maximum capacity yearround, with no capacity for expansion.
It means the club cannot take visitor bookings or host all the vessels that want to take part in the Festival of Sails, impacting on both the yacht club’s finances and reputation.
Its master plan provides for an additional 128 recreational berths.