Gem Pier (Williamstown Workshop, Piers & Stony Creek Backwash)

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Gem Pier (Williamstown Workshop, Piers & Stony Creek Backwash)

Gem Pier stands as one of the most highly utilised piers in Port Phillip, with scenic views of the port and surrounding Melbourne cityscape.

Gem Pier is the perfect starting point for exploring early Victoria’s maritime history or many of Williamstown’s and Port Phillip's contemporary attractions. The HMAS Castlemaine is permanently docked at Gem Pier. Classed as a Heritage Honour Ship, the Castlemaine is now a floating museum and visitors can inspect a fascinating collection of nautical exhibits and memorabilia.

For a broader view of Port Phillip visitors may like to board a ferry at Gem Pier and cruise in style to Southgate.

Gem Pier has nearby barbeque, picnic and playground facilities.

Jumping and diving off the pier and other structures is prohibited for public safety. There are shallow areas and often unexpected submerged objects

Ensure dogs are kept on lead at all times and clean up after your dog.

How to get there

Gem Pier (Williamstown Workshop, Piers & Stony Creek Backwash)

Need to know

Gem Pier (Williamstown Workshop, Piers & Stony Creek Backwash)

Safety in nature

You can benefit both mind and body when you get outdoors to explore and experience Victoria's natural places. Before you go, take a look at our safety tips and check our changed conditions and closures information for a great visit.

Accessibility

Visiting a park can be more of a challenge for people with disabilities, however, in Victoria there are a wide range of facilities to help people of all abilities enjoy our wonderful parks around the state. Parks Victoria provides a range of a equipment, including all-terrain and beach wheelchairs, facilities, accommodation and accessibility information and programs to help you plan and enjoy your visit to Victoria's parks.

Assistance dogs are welcome in Parks Victoria parks and reserves. Entry requirements apply for parks and reserves that are usually dog prohibited, such as national parks.

Warnings & Restrictions

Dogs

Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash

Restrictions

Load, weight restrictions
Boating zones apply
No jumping or diving off piers or jetties
No swimming
Speed restrictions apply

Warnings

Water hazards
Deep water

Strong currents

Shallow water

Submerged obstacles
Terrain hazards
Slippery surface
Animals and pests
Stingers

Be Prepared

Stay safe and get the most out of your park visit by preparing for natural hazards and other outdoor risks in Victoria’s parks. You are responsible for your own safety and the safety of those in your care. Find out more.

Change of Conditions

Nature being nature, sometimes conditions can change at short notice. It’s a good idea to check this page ahead of your visit for any updates.

CLOSED - Stony Creek Backwash Timber Boardwalk

Parks Victoria closed the Stony Creek Backwash timber boardwalk in June 2020 after dive and engineering inspections found it was not safe for public use.

Sections of decking have been removed and handrail installed to prevent pedestrian access to the site and ensure visitor safety.

Access to the Stony Creek Backwash and Yarra River is provided via the Hyde St entrance track. The salvageable portion of the boardwalk has been maintained to provide a viewing and fishing platform for site visitors.