The Andrews Labor Government is securing the future of Gippsland Lakes by investing in a new dredge which will deliver safe and reliable ocean access to commercial fishing and shipping operators, tourism operators and recreational boaters and fishers.

Minister for Ports Luke Donnellan announced the funding at Jemmys Point Lookout with Gippsland Ports’ Chair Geoff Hocking, CEO Nick Murray and other representatives to update the community on the procurement process.

Securing the new dredge will ensure ocean access at Lakes Entrance is maintained for the region’s commercial fishing and tourism industries, which contribute significantly to the local economy, and for recreational boating and fishing enthusiasts.

Maintaining ocean access will also decrease the risk of flooding for local communities at Lakes Entrance, Paynesville and Metung and the surrounding agricultural regions.

Gippsland Ports has been progressing a rigorous tender process to find the best dredging arrangement possible to replace the current 35 year old contracted dredge, ‘Pelican’.

Maintenance dredging at Lakes Entrance has been undertaken for the last 120 years and is vital to provide a reliable entrance to Gippsland Lakes.

Gippsland Ports has short-listed tenderers with the successful bidder to be announced later this year.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Ports Luke Donnellan

“In our first Budget, the Andrews Labor Government is investing in the future of the Gippsland Lakes economy. The National Party had four years to plan for the future of this thriving region but did nothing.”

“Gippsland Lakes generates over $900 million per year to the local and Victorian economies and today’s announcement will support local tourism and fishing industries for decades to come.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing

“This major investment for the communities of Lakes Entrance, Paynesville and Metung which will guarantee future ocean access for another 30 years as well as reducing the risk of flooding to local communities.”

“By investing in a new dredge for maintaining ocean access at Lakes Entrance, we’re making sure that commercial fishers and recreational boaters can continue to safely access Gippsland Lakes.”

Quotes attributable to Gippsland Ports Chair Geoff Hocking

“On behalf of the regional community, Gippsland Ports is greatly appreciative for the support of the Victorian Government in making funding available to secure a new dredge.”

“We thank the Minister for Ports in particular for his considerable efforts in bringing this to fruition.”