Grants funding applications sought  

5 July 2010

Acting  Roads  and  Ports  Minister  Peter  Batchelor today invited funding applications for initiatives  that  will  improve  boating  safety and facilities on Victoria’s waterways.

“The Brumby Labor Government is committed to investing in boating safety and facilities and I urge eligible organisations to submit an application for the 2010-11 Boating Safety and Facilities Program,” Mr Batchelor said.

“Now in its 10th year, the Program has provided more than $41 million to about 880 projects that have helped make boating safer and more accessible for all Victorians.

“The Government has allocated another $5 million to the 2010-11 program, which is  funded  through  recreational  boat  operator licensing fees and vessel registration fees.

“The funding will help improve access  to  our  waterways, with grants available to build and upgrade boat ramps and jetties.

“The program will also improve safety on our coasts, rivers and lakes by funding training and education initiatives, providing new search and rescue vessels,  improving  navigation  and  safety  signage  and enhancing marine communications.”

As well as community projects, the program also supports initiatives such as boating safety research and safety education programs.

Last financial year, a total of 63 projects across the state received funding  through the  program  to boost safety education and training, buy rescue  vessels  and  equipment,  provide  navigation aids and signage, and upgrade and build boating facilities.

Almost  $700,000 was provided for search and rescue  across Victoria, providing  volunteers with key equipment and training required to undertake important rescue operations for our boating communities. Other major projects to receive funding included:

• $95,000 for three new lanes and new jetties at St Helens boat ramp in Geelong;
• $112,000 for improvements to Dawson’s Cove boat ramp, East Gippsland;
• $121,000 for additional berthing and lighting upgrades at Inverloch boat ramp; and $9800 for  training  courses for the Australian Navy Cadets, Chelsea Yacht Club and Scouts Australia.

Mr Batchelor said applications for funding from the 2010-11 Boating Safety and  Facilities Program will close on 13 August, with successful applicants to be announced in October.

“I urge all  boating, fishing and community groups, search and rescue organisations,  local  waterway  authorities, government agencies and committees of management to apply for funding,” Mr Batchelor said.

“The Government looks forward to receiving applications and working with applicants to achieve safer waterways for all Victorians.”

For more information about the 2010-11 Boating Safety and Facilities Program or for a copy  of  the application booklet, contact the Grants Administration Team on 1800 337 222, email boating.grants@transport.vic.gov.au or visit www.transport.vic.gov.au/grants

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