HASTINGS JETTY SAVED
24-November-2011
Member for Hastings, Neale Burgess, today announced that the Victorian State Government will completely re-build the Hastings Jetty in its existing form.
The previous state Labor Government had planned to demolish the jetty and replace it with a flat concrete floating pontoon. In response to the Brumby Government's plan the community held protest meetings, wrote hundreds of letters and signed petitions that were tabled in state parliament, protesting against the demolition of its precious jetty."
Mr Burgess said: "Prior to last year's state election I committed that a Baillieu Government would overturn Labor's decision and rebuild the Hastings Jetty in its historic form. I also made it clear that while a floating pontoon would be useful and welcome, it would only be built as an addition to our historic jetty and not in place of it!"
"I am very pleased to announce that our jetty will be rebuilt in its existing form, using the highest quality and appropriate materials and a new and additional 36 metre pontoon and access gangway will be added."
"This has been a great outcome for the community, with the design of the rebuild protecting the iconic and historic nature of the Hastings Jetty, while improving access to the water for everyone".
The character of the existing Jetty will be retained, including handrails and lighting. Additional features of the rebuilt icon will include new seating and fishing rod holders.
The Minister for Ports, Dr Denis Napthine and Member for Hastings Neale Burgess announced the important upgrade project today with the release of an artist’s impression of the new Jetty, giving locals a glimpse of the rebuilt facility that will be delivered in 2012.
"Hastings Jetty is a very popular recreational asset for Western Port that had been allowed to deteriorate badly. The low landing and old slipway have been closed completely for several years and strict load limits placed on the pier’s use due to its deteriorating condition."
"After more than three decades of wear and tear since the last major upgrade in 1975, it was time our jetty received some serious love and attention.”
"The rebuilt jetty and new pontoon will cope better with Western Port's large tidal range and provide greatly improved and safer access to the jetty for a larger range of vessels."
"The Hastings Jetty has been a very important part of Hastings and Western Port since it was first built in 1865. With this rebuild, anglers, walkers and others that enjoy the many pleasures provided by this iconic structure will be able to continue that enjoyment for many decades to come."
Works are expected to start early next year and take about five months to complete. The project is being funded by Parks Victoria, the Department of Transport’s ‘Boating Safety Facilities’ and ‘Local Ports Risk’ Programs, and Department of Primary Industry’s Recreational Fishing Grants Program.
It is expected that during the re-build public access to the pier on the inner concrete section will be retained, including to Hayman Pacific’s marina arm. Insert thumbnail of artists’ impression.
The Heritage Listed Hastings Fisherman's Shed, which is located at the entrance to the Hastings Jetty, is also of great value to the Hastings community. The shed will undergo refurbishment and will be protected. Expressions of interest in leasing it will be sought, with intent to re-open the shed for its traditional use as a fresh fish outlet, being given preference.
For an artists’ impression of the Hastings Jetty contact Parks Victoria on 13 1963 or visit www.parks.vic.gov.au.
Media: Neale Burgess 5977 5600