Warrnambool Harbour – have your say

The long-running discussions on what to do to upgrade Warrnambool Harbour and make launching and retrieving boats easier and safer is coming to a head with three options tabled.

The options range from dredging and improving the existing ramp to a full safe harbour.

The Mayor of Warrnambool Cr Michael Neoh has called for residents and boaters to vote for which of the options they would prefer.

The harbour has copped ongoing criticism from local and visiting boaters for its boat launching which is both hazardous inadequate.

The city is also missing out on lucrative recreational angling tourism, particularly during the southern bluefin tuna season because of the poor facilities at the harbour.

However the Mayor said that the most popular option my not be one chosen: "These options are outlined (on the website) along with a summary of the existing boating facilities," he said.

"With each option, the benefits of improving boating facilities must be weighed against the potential impact on the environment, Council’s budget and on the amenity of all those who enjoy Lady Bay.

"The wave action in the harbour is complex and any certain solution is difficult to guarantee. Each of the three options will significantly reduce wind-generated swell, however long waves – a different type of wave – will still impact on the harbour.

"This feedback form is not a referendum but will help guide the Council and provide a gauge on support for the various options. It also provides an opportunity for written comment."

The document can be printed out, the survey completed and returned to Council at 25 Liebig Street OR you can complete the survey online.

Tuna photo courtesy of Richardson Marine Warrnambool