Improved Boating Infrastructure Firmly On The Agenda

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20th November 2009, 08:31pm - Views: 1173





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MEDIA RELEASE


Boating Industry Association of Vic. LTD, Marine House, 24 York Street, South Melbourne VIC 3205




20 November 2009









BIA 0911


Improved boating infrastructure firmly on the agenda


An improvement to Victoria’s boating infrastructure was firmly on the agenda at the third

biannual VECCI Victoria Summit held at Parliament House on Tuesday November 17. 


Representing the marine sector were Boating Industry Association of Victoria General

Manager Robert Coco, and Yachting Victoria CEO Ross Kilborn.


The Victoria Summit provides the Victorian community with a forum in which to put forward

proposals to help government determine practical policy solutions to meet Victoria’s future

requirements for success.


This year the Summit focused on four key streams: Infrastructure, Sustainability, Workplace

Futures and Innovation & Industry Policy.


The need for improved boating infrastructure was recognised amongst other short term

(2009-11) priorities including extending the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre

(Jeff’s Shed), new nature-based tourism facilities and removal of level crossings. 


Robert Coco said the Summit highlighted the ultimate benefits of continuing negotiation and

lobbying on behalf of the marine sector.


“It was very pleasing that after several years of extensive consultation between the industry

and government, the original considerations raised at the Victoria Summit two years ago have

been developed to firm government policy statements,” he said.


“These policies are now being prioritised amongst other important community projects. 


People Feature BIA Victoria 3 image

“Important marine projects on the list include the St. Kilda Harbour

redevelopment, Frankston Safe Harbour, Geelong Marine Industry Precinct, Williamstown

Foreshore, Mornington Safe Harbour, Wyndham Cove and Portarlington Harbour.


“Also recognised as important priorities were regional facilities at Mildura, Apollo Bay and

the Gippsland Lakes.”


Ross Kilborn said it was pleasing that the Summit recognised the economic value of the

marine sector.



“It was particularly good to see recognition in the Summit papers that, not only do such

developments facilitate growing opportunities for recreational boating and tourism, they also

drive the State’s growing economy,” he said.


“For example, Queenscliff Harbour’s modest $5 million public investment triggered a $30

million Public Private Partnership (PPP) project, and construction of a rock wall at St.Kilda

Harbour will generate significant private investment.


“Whilst there is still a long way to go to achieve the ultimate outcomes, and both BIAV and

Yachting Victoria will continue their efforts unabated, the Summit confirms that improved

boating infrastructure in Victoria is now firmly on the government agenda.”


Both Premier John Brumby and Opposition Leader Ted Ballieu acknowledged the value

of the Victoria Summit, and attended with several Cabinet and Shadow Cabinet members. 



…ends


More information:



Robert Coco


0414 492 984 or (03) 8696 5600

Media inquiries & images:


Greg Shoemark

0412 316 928 or (03) 9898 5570









g_shoemark@optusnet.com.au







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