The Nationals’ Member for Eastern Victoria, Melina Bath has called on the Allan Government in parliament to deliver the long awaited rebuild of the Newhaven Jetty, following the Bass Coast community’s success in securing funding to reopen the historic asset.
Ms Bath said there must be active community consultation in the design and the construction timeline of Newhaven Jetty.
“Since receiving a commitment of $5.5 million to refurbish and reopen the jetty, communication with locals has been virtually non‑existent.
“Residents are justifiably concerned that since the October 10 announcement last year, the Allan Government has provided almost no detail.”
Ms Bath said Labor has a pattern of making announcements but failing to deliver projects on time.
“Newhaven Jetty has been closed for nearly two years, given the significant impact its closure has had on the community, repairs must now be treated as an urgent priority.
“The Bass Coast community deserve a jetty that is safe, accessible and properly maintained; and I am committed to holding the government to account.
“I commend the local community’s determination and advocacy, for decades Newhaven Jetty supported accessible land based recreational fishing and was a vital contributor to the visitor economy, the community’s anticipation is justified.
“With the Bass Coast already reeling from the Allan Government’s failure to keep the MotoGP on Phillip Island, this project must be fast tracked.
“Newhaven Jetty should never have been closed without notice or consultation and The Nationals are calling on Labor to release a clear timeline and engage transparently with locals.”
