By Goya Dmytryshchak
Fishers have welcomed the abolition of boat ramp fees across Hobsons Bay.
Election promises by both major parties to abolish boat ramp fees and return all licensing and registration revenue to the industry have now come into effect at some of the state’s boat ramps.
Annual permits had cost up to $315 at Altona and Newport, but are now free.
However, the parking has a 12-hour limit, where the previous limit was 24 hours.
Premier Daniel Andrews and Fishing and Boating Minister Jaala Pulford on Sunday visited the Warmies boat ramp at Newport to announce that parking and launching at boat ramps across Hobsons Bay were now free.
“These fees cost Victorian families hundreds of dollars a year; we said we’d abolish them and we’re delivering,” Mr Andrews said.
“Free public boat ramps will make it cheaper and easier to get out on the water and enjoy everything our bays, lakes and rivers have to offer.”
Hillside fisher Albert Nuzzo, who was fined about $67 for parking without paying at Newport boat ramp in April, welcomed the abolition of fees.
“I just want equality across the board,” he said.
“In the whole of Australia, no one else has to pay fees. I can’t understand why it’s taken so long.”
The state government is working with Wyndham council “about arrangements to remove fees”.
