Shaving Point Boat Ramp at Metung has proved popular since it re-opened following a major upgrade over the winter months.

The ramp was closed from the end of June to October while significant improvements were made, including a new concrete ramp, ramp apron, fixed jetty and floating pontoon. The boat ramp was re-opened in time for the busy Melbourne Cup weekend.

The improvements provide space to tie up alongside the ramp and include recycled plastic fenders to protect boats when tying up. Wave panels have been added on the jetty for more protection when launching and retrieving, and remediation works were also completed to prevent sand build up.

Funded by a $577,000 grant from Better Boating Victoria and funds from East Gippsland Shire Council, the efficient design will help to reduce congestion in peak boating seasons, mitigate environmental concerns such as erosion and runoff, and enhance safety and accessibility.

“Council is proud to deliver the Shaving Point Boat Ramp upgrades to enhance the overall experience and encourage more boaters to visit the area,” Mayor Cr Tom Crook said.

“Recreational boating and fishing is an integral aspect of the East Gippsland lifestyle, enriching the experiences of the many locals and tourists who frequent our waterways. Managing 31 boat-launching facilities across the shire, Council values the partnership and funding from the Victorian Government in helping us maintain and upgrade these important facilities.”

Council is also working on complementary projects at Shaving Point: formalising boat parking and car parking; improving the boat trailer turnaround, reversing area and traffic flow; enhancing the park area immediately adjacent to the boat ramp and upgrading the existing toilet block.

To read more about these projects, and many others, visit Council’s Your Say website.