The Andrews Labor Government has repaired the bluestone seawall at Point Gellibrand Coastal Heritage Park, so that communities in Melbourne’s west can continue to enjoy the much-loved promenade for years to come.
Minister for Environment Ingrid Stitt announced the repairs had been delivered as part of the Labor Government’s $21 million Urban Parks Active Wellbeing Program which is upgrading facilities at 21 parks across Melbourne – supporting the health and wellbeing of local communities.
Point Gellibrand Coastal Heritage Park is the state’s first permanent European settlement and seaport making it a significant heritage site.
Visitors can explore the maritime history of Timeball Tower, retrace Ned Kelly’s steps along Battery Road, and enjoy the views across the bay.
The Urban Parks Active Wellbeing Program is also delivering an extension to the Bay Trail at Point Cook, enabling a continuous journey for the community to walk, run and cycle from Williamstown to Point Cook Coastal Park.
Parks Victoria is working closely with Aveo Group, which is delivering an adjoining section of the Bay Trail extension. When complete, the new section of trail will provide a faster, safer, off-road journey for pedestrians and cyclists, reducing a 3.8km detour down to just over 400 metres.
The program is also upgrading visitor facilities at a number of popular urban parks including picnic shelters and tables, toilets, trails, carparks, barbecues, playground equipment and visitor signage.
The Labor Government is investing millions of dollars into parks and reserves across greater Melbourne to improve visitor experiences, stimulate the economy, and support the health of natural and cultural landscapes.
The Urban Parks Active Wellbeing Program has directly created 48 new jobs during construction and $5.4 million of direct economic benefit.
For more information about the Urban Parks Active Wellbeing Program projects visit parks.vic.gov.au/projects.
As stated by Minister for Environment Ingrid Stitt
“We know that Point Gellibrand Coastal Heritage Park is loved by many in the Williamstown community. I’m thrilled that we’re able to give the seawall and promenade a new lease on life.”
“Keeping our urban outdoor spaces accessible for Victorians is key to supporting healthy communities, through providing more opportunities for active recreation, relaxation and connection with others and nature.
“We’re preserving our urban parks to support biodiversity and help build Melbourne’s resilience to climate change.”
As stated by Minister for Ports and Freight Melissa Horne
“This project will ensure people get the most out of their visit at Point Gellibrand Coastal Heritage Park and can continue to enjoy the beautiful views of the bay for years to come.”
As stated by Member for Point Cook Matthew Hilakari
“Connecting the Bay Trail to Point Cook Coastal Park will open up access to the historic homestead, Cheetham Wetlands Tower and the beaches and nature reserves of Point Cook – and allow residents of Saltwater to connect easily to the Bay Trail.”
