Boat ramp fees dropped

The Werribee South boat ramp. Photo by Damjan Janevski.

By Alesha Capone

Wyndham council has signalled that free parking will be made available at the Werribee South Boat Ramp.

The council made the announcement last week after it came to an agreement with the state government on the issue.

Earlier this year, the government committed to removing boat ramp launching and parking fees for 12 months, while it reviews the management of boat ramps in Victoria.

Wyndham’s sports development portfolio holder, Cr Peter Maynard, said the council stopped charging users of the parking facilities at Werribee South Boat Ramp last year while talks were being held with the state government.

“Council will be contacting annual pass holders who had remaining credit on their pass to advise of arrangements for refunds to be provided for the remaining credit,” Cr Maynard said.

“The move initiated by the state government will make recreational boating and fishing more accessible for all residents by reducing the parking costs near the ramp.

“The abolition of fees at the Werribee Boat Ramp will save boaters up to $207 a year for an annual launching permit.

“We are pleased to work with the state government to ensure that Wyndham is part of the statewide program and look forward to contributing to the study to ensure that the needs of a growth area such as Wyndham are well considered in the study to determine future management arrangements.”