Port Welshpool’s new accessible pontoon opens

A project backed by $750,000 in Victorian Government funding to deliver an accessible pontoon at Port Welshpool has been completed, with the facility now open to the public.

It’ll pave the way for those with a disability or mobility issues to enjoy safer access to Corner Inlet.

Better Boating Victoria announced the milestone on Thursday, August 13, following the completion of work on the upgraded boating facility.

Better Boating Victoria previously described the project reaching practical completion as a “major milestone”.

The existing floating pontoon has been replaced with a brand-new concrete pontoon, while the gangway has also been upgraded to provide safer and less obstructed access to recreational boats.

A Hansa C Crane will be installed in the coming months to improve accessibility and ensure people of all abilities can enjoy getting out on the water.

The Port Welshpool boat ramp remained partially closed while it was under construction but is now open to the public.

The project received $750,000 through the Victorian Government’s Better Boating Fund, with South Gippsland Shire Council not required to make a financial contribution towards construction.

Council entered into a funding agreement with the Victorian Fisheries Authority in 2025 and was responsible for managing the project’s delivery.

Once it’s operational, Council will be responsible for maintaining the new crane. Council officers previously indicated that they would seek assistance from Victorian Government agencies with the ongoing maintenance of the pontoon.

The upgrade was originally designed to provide unassisted access for people with a disability for about 80 per cent of the time, with the gangway operating at a maximum slope of one in 14.

During the remaining tidal conditions, assisted access is intended to remain available at a maximum slope of one in eight.

The previous modular floating pontoon had caused ongoing maintenance problems and was prone to breaking apart during rough weather.

When funding for its replacement was announced in August last year, then-mayor John Schelling said the facility would be welcomed by the community.

“It will provide people of all abilities the opportunity to enjoy and explore the natural beauty of our coast by boat,” Cr Schelling said.

Port Welshpool’s boating facility is managed by South Gippsland Shire Council and includes a three-lane boat ramp, fixed jetty and floating pontoon.

It provides direct access to Corner Inlet and is used by recreational fishers, local boat owners and visitors.

The completion milestone comes several years after plans for an accessible pontoon at the site were first developed.

Detailed designs were being finalised in 2022, with the Victorian Government at the time describing the proposed pontoon as the first facility of its kind in the region.

The project was ultimately funded through the 2024–25 Recreational Boating Action Plan before construction began this year.