New fishing pontoons for Warrnambool’s Merri river

by Denis Napthine on 9 Jul 2014 Anglers wetting a line in Warrnambool’s Merri River can look forward to better access with the construction of two new floating pontoons and upgrades to existing jetties.

Premier and Member for South West Coast Denis Napthine today announced $88,200 from the Coalition Government to build two pontoons on the east bank of the Merri River, located off the Lake Pertobe walking trail.

The pontoons, funded through the Recreational Fishing Grants Program, will be built between the Stanley Street bridge and new Woollen Mills housing estate. Two existing fishing areas, located opposite on the west bank, will also be upgraded to improve disabled access.

'The Coalition Government recognises the significant social and economic value of recreational fishing to local communities and we are continuing to invest in projects that support and grow fishing opportunities,' Dr Napthine said.

'This project is being funded by proceeds from the sale of recreational fishing licences, which means fishers’ fees are going directly back into improving the pastime they enjoy.

'The two new floating pontoons will provide flat, stable and safe platforms from which anglers can fish with plenty of room to cast out a line. The two areas will also be revegetated and woody weeds removed to provide clearer waters to improve the chances of making that lucrative catch.

'The pontoons will be of similar design to the popular platforms on the Hopkins River near Lyndoch and will be conveniently located within close proximity to caravan parks, ensuring visitors to Warrnambool can enjoy a safe place to fish.'

Dr Napthine said the project would be delivered by the Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority.

Projects funded under the program in previous years include a fishing platform at Yambuk Lake, safety rails on the east jetty at Jubilee Park Allansford, and a solar light over the fish cleaning table at Wally’s Ramp, Portland.

'Through the Recreational Fishing Grants Program we have allocated $1.7 million into 21 large grant projects this year, while another $2 million will fund broader projects like more fish stocking, fisheries research and education,' Dr Napthine said.

'On top of this, our $16 million Recreational Fishing Initiative is funding projects to stock more fish, improve access and facilities, install fish cleaning tables, improve fish passage, undertake more research and strengthen fisheries enforcement and education.'