Community celebrates new boat ramp
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Members of the Marlo community joined with East Gippsland Shire Council yesterday (Tuesday) to mark the completion of the Brodribb River Boat Ramp upgrade.
The $442,625 upgrade saw the existing single lane boat ramp and fixed jetty demolished and replaced with modern facilities including a two-lane boat ramp and two floating pontoon jetties.
Mayor Cr Joe Rettino said the Brodribb River boat ramp was Marlo’s main launching ramp.
“Nature-based activities, particularly on-water activities such as recreational fishing and boating, are popular with locals and visitors,” Cr Rettino said.
“The old boat ramp did not meet current standards. It also did not provide suitable access for people with limited mobility This upgrade will make launching and retrieving boats safer.”
The old boat ramp was short and narrow, with no lighting and poor accessibility from the jetty. The new boat ramp includes solar lighting, and an access compliant jetty on each side of the boat ramp.
The need to upgrade the Brodribb River Boat Ramp was identified in the Marlo Foreshore Management Plan.
The works were completed by council’s contractor, Tambo Constructions. The project was funded through a grant from Transport for Victoria of $318,200 and a council contribution of $124,425.
Cr Rettino acknowledged the efforts of locals in helping make the new boat ramp a reality.
“I would like to acknowledge the Marlo Ratepayer and Residents Association, particularly Tanya Coleman and Brian Cotter, for their drive and commitment to this project.
“I know local groups such as the Marlo Angling Club and Marlo Coast Guard had a strong interest in this project and I am sure they will find the new boat ramp a valuable asset,” Cr Rettino said.
Celebrating the opening of the Brodribb River Boat Ramp are East Gippsland Shire Mayor Cr Joe Rettino, Marlo Ratepayer and Residents Association’s Brian Cotter, Marlo Coast Guard’s Gail Baird and Arthur Ward, Marlo Ratepayer and Residents Association’s Tanya Coleman, and the coast guard’s Chris Coulton and Harry Ferrier (Commander).