Last week in Port Fairy a number of announcements were made by the Minister for Regional and Rural Development in the other place, including a $1.5 million state government grant for the Port Fairy port. The Port Fairy economy centres around tourism and fishing, both of which will be significantly enhanced due to this grant. The Port Fairy port is home to a commercial fishing fleet of nine vessels with a total annual value of commercial fishing revenue estimated at $10 million. The marine heritage and fishing lifestyle, as well as the Port Fairy Folk Festival and Spring Music Festival, attract tourists to this wonderful part of the world. This tourism dollar is essential to the Port Fairy economy.
The project includes upgrading the marina wharf, upgrading walls on the west side of the Moyne River and continued works to the bluestone retaining walls.
Victoria’s local ports have long been in need of urgent capital works, and the Brumby government has responded to this need. This program will enhance local amenity and deliver services to local communities and enhance access and safety.
The $1.5 million grant is just part of the $363.8 million provided through the Regional Infrastructure Development Fund to finance 148 projects worth just under $1 billion across provincial Victoria. I look forward to continuing to work with the Moyne Shire Council on this and many other projects in the surrounding areas.