Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney today announced an $87,757 boost to boating safety in the South West through the Brumby Government’s Boating Safety and Facilities Program 2008-09.
Ms Tierney said the Brumby Government was committed to working with the community to provide safe boating facilities and a safer boating environment.
“The projects funded through the Boating Safety and Facilities Program will help make boating safer and more accessible for all recreational boaters in Victoria.
“Our aim is to continue to reduce the number of boating-related injuries and fatalities on Victoria’s waterways.
“Victoria has experienced a steady decline in boating related injuries in recent years, with 23 fatalities between 2005 and 2007 compared to 31 fatalities in 2001 to 2004.
“Since the first year of the Boating Safety and Facilities Program in 2001-02, the Victorian Government has re-invested over $36 million through reinvesting recreational boat operator licensing fees and vessel registration revenue.
“Improving boating safety on Victoria’s waterways is a priority for the Brumby Government and the Boating Safety and Facilities Program is a successful initiative for providing the right support to make a difference.”
Projects funded within the South West include:
• $63,200 to the Warrnambool City Council to upgrade and improve lighting equipment at the lower and upper lighthouse, Flagstaff Hill, and upgrade the beacon at the end of the breakwater and install a new beacon for navigation into the Port at Lady Bay
• $20,000 to the Moyne Shire Council for the upgrade of the Yambuk Lake Boat Ramp
• $10,000 to the Nelson Reserves Committee of Management Inc. for the upgrade of the second boat ramp at Nelson on the Glenelg River
• $6,400 to The Allansford and District Angling Club for the investigation, design and document preparation for the upgrade of Jubilee Park boat ramp at Allansford
• $4,200 to the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard – Warrnambool to train 12 members in MED III
• $2,000 to the Warrnambool Surf Life Saving Club for the installation of a weather station linked to the club website
Ms Tierney said these projects were part of a $5 million boost for 91 projects awarded funding across the State.
“Funding is provided to boating, fishing and community groups, local waterway authorities, government agencies, committees of management and search and rescue organisations across the State,” Ms Tierney said.
“Projects range from purchasing search and rescue vessels and equipment, building and upgrading boating facilities, installing marine communications, education and training, navigation aids and boating safety signage.”
For further information, including the full list of successful applicants visit www.marinesafety.vic.gov.au or call Marine Safety Victoria on 1800 337 222.