Functions and attractions of local ports

Local ports across Victoria are safe havens and provide services to the commercial fishing industry, charter boats, and recreational fishing and boating interests. The local ports are home to, and destination points for, many local and visiting yachts.

A number of related developments are also found in some of the local ports - like the slipways at Paynesville, Queenscliff and Apollo Bay and the fish processing operations at Lakes Entrance.

By servicing a wide range of users, local ports play a vital part in local communities and support industries of importance to Victoria's economy.

Tourist spots

Local ports are also prime tourist destinations. Each year, thousands of people walk along or throw a fishing line from the many jetties, piers and breakwaters in the local port areas.

These also provide a good opportunity to watch fishing industry operations and see the variety of recreation boats moored in sheltered areas.

Changing uses

The purpose and uses of Victoria's local ports have changed over time. In many locations (eg Warrnambool) facilities were originally built, before good roads, to service commercial and trading vessels which operated along the Victorian coastline.

Over time, shipping activity has been concentrated in the commercial port areas of Portland, Geelong, Melbourne and Hastings, leaving the local ports to service the commercial fishing industry, and recreational and boating interests.

Port of Port Fairy - King George Wharf