Jennifer Pittorino
Altona’s pride and joy, the newly redeveloped Altona Pier is now open for public use.
Williamstown MP Melissa Horne and Parks Victoria joined eager community members to officially open the pier, just in time for the warm summer weather.
Altona Pier is a beloved local landmark with a storied history dating back to 1888.
In recent times, the pier has swapped steam ferries for boating, fishing, and other maritime recreation.
It aligns with Pier Street where nearby locals find an abundance of restaurants and shops making the Esplanade a perfect summer stop.
Altona Traders Association President Ilch Mickovski hopes this new addition will continue to boost the thriving suburb.
“It is a great addition to Altona, it is a once in a lifetime construction we get to see and enjoy using,” he said.
“This should help develop Altona to become a tourist attraction while supporting our traders.”
Over its 136-year history, the pier has undergone several repairs and upgrades.
This latest upgrade is designed to make the pier a safer place for all users while preserving its history.
According to the state government, timbers from the old pier were salvaged for use in the upcoming foreshore redevelopment and for the seating on the pier.
The redeveloped pier opened to the public in December and features a Y-shaped pier head, a hardwood timber deck, public lighting for safe pedestrian access, and an
accessible lower landing for swimming and recreational boating.
The renovation was completed with $11.9 from the state government.
Williamstown MP Melissa Horne said, “I am thrilled to officially open the brand-new Altona Pier today – it’s a win for boaters, anglers and the local community.
With a couple more months of summer, I encourage residents and visitors to come down and enjoy the new pier.
“Piers like Altona are not just about the physical structure; they are about the memories
created here, the community gatherings, and the connection to our maritime history.
“We are committed to ensuring these spaces are preserved and continue to be enjoyed by everyone.”
