Call for Warrnambool harbour forum on proposed redevelopment

Master mariner Rod Blake asked Warrnambool City Council at Monday’s monthly meeting why it “ignored decades of anecdotal evidence and professional experience” on the issue.

He said to minimise the swell coming into the inner harbour the area needed structural protection such as a spur and groyne.

He said benefits of an enclosed harbour would include safer boat launching and retrieval.

“Inside the harbour area a marina-type berthing could be built,” he said. “This would be especially advantageous to commercial fishermen but more importantly, the Coast Guard, who could have a significantly reduced response time – from 30 minutes to five.” 

Mr Blake said the proposed upgrades – as addressed in the council’s draft Port of Warrnambool masterplan – were a waste of time.

“There is no need to extend the current boat ramp beyond two lanes if the jetty mooring facility and road access was improved,” he said.

Mr Blake suggested an enclosed harbour could allow for nets to be installed for safe swimming, a children’s beach area, more areas for onshore fishing on the spur, a diving platform and increased economic benefits.

Professional fisherman Peter Sandow said the current boat ramp was “very dangerous”.

“Until you put a spur there is no way you will stop the swell,” he said. “It’s only a matter of time before someone will drown or get crushed between their trailer and car.” Fisherman Neville Dance said a public forum could explore all issues.

“We need members of the public and the council to come together,” he said. “We need completely independent industry professionals to address the issues.”

Warrnambool Coast Guard’s Steve Tippett said there was too much talking and not enough action.

He supported the push for a public forum. 

“I have advocated for safe launching 100 per cent of the time,” he said. “We need to forget past disappointments and get on with it. We need people to stand up and be counted.”