Coast projects get $20m
Lorne and Apollo Bay included in City Deal pledges
MILLIONS of dollars will be splashed on key projects in Lorne and Apollo Bay as part of the Federal Government’s commitment to the Geelong City Deal.
The Morrison Government will today announce up to $8 million in funding for the Lorne Point Grey project, along with $12 million for the redevelopment of the Apollo Bay harbour.
The cash windfall stems from the $150 million City Deal commitment signed in January by former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.
It also follows $3.5 million the Government has already put towards the Geelong Safe Harbour project, however other funding announcements under the City Deal are yet to be made.
The Geelong Advertiser understands Prime Minister Scott Morrison will be in the Geelong region on Monday to announce more funding.
Corangamite federal Liberal MP Sarah Henderson said it was important the City Deal included projects in her electorate, which incorporates the Surf Coast.
“This is a very significant investment in two important local projects which will deliver a real boost to the Great Ocean Road visitor economy,” she said.
“Some 6.2 million people visit the Great Ocean Road region every year.
“The upgrade of the Apollo Bay Harbour and the Point Grey redevelopment will also make a real difference to these local communities.
“I am extremely proud that our City Deal is providing direct investment for the Corangamite electorate.”
The Point Grey precinct is located about 1km from Lorne’s town centre and in- cludes the Lorne Angling and Aquatic Club, Lorne Pier, a restaurant, and a barbecue and recreation area.
Many of the current buildings on the site are ageing, with scope for increased protection of the natural environment and cultural sites.
Meanwhile, the Apollo Bay harbour redevelopment would include an extension of the Fisherman’s Co-op.
The project would transform it into a state-of-the-art processing facility with capacity for tourists to view and experience the catch.
There are also plans for an indoor/outdoor seafood cafe, a boardwalk linking the harbour to the township, and a new port operation department.
Earlier this year, Federal Labor said it would invest $153 million in a Geelong City Partnership, covering projects including the Geelong Convention Centre and Shipwreck Coast masterplan.