A revised planning application currently before Council includes a full rebuild of the badly damaged wharf, formalised car parking and landscaping.
Derelict sheds will be demolished, but the Peter Locke/Cayzer slipway will be retained for the launch of small craft, such as kyaks and dinghies.
Interpretive kiosks would be placed along the full length of the harbour waterfont, with potential elements including periscopes for underwater viewing, telescopes or touch screen displays.
“These works will substantially enhance the functionality and amenity of Fishermen’s Flat, benefitting both the local community and visitors to Queenscliff,” said the vision's author, Echelon Planning.
“The interpretive trail will allow visitors to tap into the rich history of the location,”. “Along the way the trail will direct visitors to other information sources such as various local museums and tourism features within the township.
“The discovery trail is about bringing the harbour to life.”
The new proposal was created after extensive consultation and following widespread anger over initial plans for a stingray feeding stadium and outdoor cinema.
It appears to have won the approval of nearby Fisherman's Flat residents, some imploring Council to approve and “get on with” the project.
“For many years this issue has been unresolved, but thanks to the Queenscliff Harbour Pty Ltd we have a long-sought after result,” one supporting submission said. “Workshops were financed by them and experts were hired, Parks (Victoria) and residents were invited, all in collaboration and with good will, to find an alternative to the objections and outcries of residents to the stingray proposal. Amazingly we all agreed.”