$6m makeover of Portland harbour begins

The $6 million project includes a 70-berth floating marina, 40-metre large vessel berth for tall ships, extra space for vehicle and boat trailer parking and a four-lane boat ramp.

It has been shaped by the Portland Bay Coastal Infrastructure Plan — which was adopted in 2007 and amended in August last year — and is the largest initiative tackled by Glenelg Shire Council to date.

Mayor Bruce Cross and Port of Portland chief executive Jim Cooper said the start of first stage works this week marked an exciting time for shire residents.

Large machinery will be working for the next five weeks to partially fill the foreshore lagoon area as part of land reclamation works.

Lagoon infill plans have generated some community concern, with the Portland Historic Buildings Restoration Committee recently circulating a petition opposing the move. It gathered 290 signatures and was presented at the council’s October meeting.

Dredged spoil from a shipping berth within the port will be used to reclaim land, while a second phase of reclamation will be undertaken by the port using sand from the harbour mouth.

“This is a very exciting project for our community, and plays a key role in council’s commitment to address the big picture for Portland’s future,” Cr Cross said.

“Since planning for this project began in 2007 we have maintained transparency and have always invited any interested or concerned community members to discuss the project direct with our council officers, who have full knowledge of the project.”

The restoration committee was also concerned about the impact lagoon infilling could have on the heritage-listed Regia shipwreck.

The council maintains reclamation work will not be undertaken near the site, satisfying Heritage Victoria requirements.

Mr Cooper said port dredging would extend the deep water at one berth and allow larger ships to dock from January next year.

“We ensured the fill from the port was thoroughly examined, and all government approvals have been met, before physical works began,” he said.

Funding for the project has come from the state government and the council, with further support from Transport Safety Victoria pending.