Kirk Point boatramp

Project status

 

Subject to assessments, on-ground and construction industry conditions.

The project

This project is being delivered on the country of the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners.

Accessing western Port Phillip will soon be easier thanks to boating upgrades at Kirk Point boat ramp. Kirk Point has a single-lane ramp located east of Avalon Airport in The Spit Wildlife Reserve near Geelong.

The area is popular with fishers as well as bird watchers within the adjoining wildlife reserve who use the facility for parking.

The existing ramp is exposed and does not feature a pontoon or jetty to allow for boats to be tied up, limiting capacity. The upgraded ramp will make launching and retrieving boats much easier.

The project involves upgrading the boat ramp into a two-lane facility, constructing a breakwater to provide shelter from wave action, and an additional 31 car trailer parks.

Project benefits

Visitors

Visitors will reap the benefits of easier boat launching and retrieval as well as improved parking improving access to the boat ramp and The Spit Wildlife Reserve.

Environment

This upgrade will redirect vehicle access to help protect the sensitive saltmarsh vegetation at Kirk Point, which is important to migratory birds.

Community 

The upgraded multi-lane ramp and breakwater will make for a safer and easier boating experience. New cameras and lighting will also improve safety at the ramp.

Project funding

The $4m project has been funded by licence and registration fees reinvested through the Victorian Government’s Better Boating Fund, allocated in the 2022-23 Victorian Recreational Boating Action Plan.

 

Environment and cultural heritage management

  

The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (previously Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning) has granted key environmental permits and approvals.

Construction is being done during the cooler months to limit the potential impact on migratory birds.

Who are we working with?

Parks Victoria is working with Better Boating Victoria to deliver these upgrades, in close consultation with Melbourne Water, the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners, the boating community and local environmental groups. 

 

Access changes

The boatramp, carpark and informal vehicle access track to nearby beaches are now closed for the duration of works.

Staying updated

Find out more about the Kirk Point boatramp.