Cowes Jetty upgrade works underway

Works to upgrade the Cowes Jetty have started as part of the Victorian Government’s unprecedented commitment to improving recreational boating across the state.

The $1.4 million upgrade to the Phillip Island landmark will vastly improve accessibility and reinstate emergency vehicle access on the jetty, which was originally built in 1870.

Contractors have started pile repair works and offsite fabrication of steel crosshead support beams is underway. Crews have also started work on the northern low landing to improve low tide access for the ferry and other vessels.

A new handrail is being installed on the eastern side of the pier, and the jetty walkway will be upgraded with new asphalt.

Once complete, the pier work will allow easier access to the jetty for emergency vehicles. When the steel crosshead support beams are installed, the stronger jetty will allow for a higher load capacity for vehicles.

The Jetty has remained open throughout most of the works, as many of the improvements are focused on strengthening underneath the jetty.

Fishing, walking, and boating from the jetty will continue, along with the available Ferry services. Work on the jetty is on track to be completed in December.

The Cowes Jetty upgrade is part of the Victorian Government’s $47.2 million investment to improve boating facilities across the state. Works on the jetty will be done by Parks Victoria.

The state-wide funding includes upgrading boating facilities at five other priority locations, reviewing boating infrastructure management across Port Phillip and Western Port and establishing the Better Boating Fund.