We acknowledge the Eastern Maar as Traditional Owners of the Apollo Bay Harbour area and recognise their enduring connection to Country. We pay our respects to Elders past and present and emerging and look forward to our continued collaboration throughout the life of the project.
The Apollo Bay Harbour Redevelopment Project provides an important opportunity to revitalise one of the region’s most important coastal precincts. As part of the $12.61 million Geelong City Deal investment, the project aims to deliver a more accessible, functional and welcoming harbour for all—enhancing public open space and improving public safety, supporting the working harbour, the Port Operations Depot and commercial activities and celebrating the maritime character of the site.
The Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority (GORCAPA) is leading this project, working closely with Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation, community members, local businesses, harbour users and other government and non-government stakeholders. Since taking on delivery in 2023, we have committed to an engagement process that is open and responsive to community values and feedback.
Between 7 May and 1 June 2025, GORCAPA undertook community engagement to seek feedback on community values and the Draft Precinct Plan. This engagement built on earlier engagement phases and was designed to:
• Reconfirm the community’s long-held values for the harbour
• Share updated project information
• Gather feedback on proposed precinct improvements, including access and connectivity, public amenities, building upgrades, and public open space.
A range of opportunities were provided for the community to participate— both online and in person. These included an online survey, information sessions, drop-in events at the Apollo Bay Golf Club, Recreation Reserve and local market, and meetings with key local groups such as the Apollo Bay Community Voice, Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-Op, Port of Apollo Bay Consultative Committee, Apollo Bay Chamber of Commerce and Colac Otway Shire Council. GORCAPA also continue to work with the project Community Reference Group to ensure that local voices are considered throughout the process.
The feedback captured through this process will directly inform the development of the final Precinct Plan, helping to ensure that the management of the natural and built assets within the precinct is integrated, and that future upgrades reflect community needs and values while respecting the harbour’s function and setting.
Across all channels of engagement, clear feedback emerged about:
• a strong desire to protect the harbour’s authentic character and working port;
• The need for practical, accessible public amenities;
• Improved pedestrian safety and connectivity;
• Careful management of vehicle access;
• Sensitive upgrades to the Fishermen’s Co-Op and Port Operations Depot buildings;
• Commitment to supporting the community’s broad recreational use of the harbour precinct.
While there was frustration expressed about how long improvements to the harbour precinct have been in the making, many felt that the latest proposal is a significant improvement— more in keeping with the harbour’s identity and community expectations. As one reviewer observed, “this frustration is not just about the current proposal but reflects a broader fatigue from decades of unrealised plans for the harbour”. Others were hopeful and optimistic stating that it is “good to see this happening. What you have planned will be a huge improvement on what it’s like at the moment.”
This report captures the community feedback we received in detail, including survey responses, consultation sessions and submissions. It is supported by direct quotes and data gathered throughout the engagement.
The importance of the harbour precinct has been recognised in a range of plans and proposals since the 1980s.
The Apollo Bay Harbour Redevelopment Project has come a long way since it first took shape as part of the process to develop the Apollo Bay, Skenes Creek and Marengo Community Infrastructure Plan (CIP) which was adopted in 2023. The CIP process was led by Colac Otway Shire Council (COS), working closely with the community to understand what mattered most. Through drop-in sessions, reference groups, online surveys and targeted conversations, a shared vision for the harbour began to emerge. This early work led to the 2020 Harbour Development Plan—a blueprint for how the precinct could evolve over time.
Things gained momentum when the project secured funding through the Geelong City Deal program. COS developed early concept designs and again reached out to the community for input—testing ideas like better car parking, easier pedestrian access, a new promenade, and upgrades to the Co-Op and the Port Operations Depot. People were generally supportive, especially of plans to improve how the harbour functions and public access, while keeping its authenticity.
In 2023, GORCAPA took over the delivery after a review of the City Deal program. Since then, GORCAPA has revisited earlier plans in the context of changing legislation and policy, leading to a refined project scope, and the appointment of Antarctica Architects as head consultant to help design and deliver the project. A new Community Reference Group was also formed to make sure local voices continue to inform the harbour’s future. This engagement process builds on everything that’s come before, recognising the past while planning for a harbour that works for everyone into the future.
55% use the precinct to walk / cycle
74% are Apollo Bay Residents A majority of you go to the Fishermen’s Co-Op
1/4
Average age of respondents 60-65 years young
23% use a boat at the Harbour 15% live with, or supports someone who lives with, a disability of respondents fish at the Harbour
Just shy of half of you swim at beaches around the Harbour Precinct
Over the month-long engagement period on the Draft Precinct Plan, we heard from the community through 13 local information sessions and meetings, more than 100 survey responses and submissions, over 1,200 visits to the project webpage, and more than 3,000 views across social media.
13 COMMUNITY INFORMATION SESSIONS / MEETINGS
100+ SURVEYS / SUBMISSIONS
3,073 SOCIAL MEDIA VIEWS
1,209 PROJECT WEBPAGE VIEWS
Six key themes emerged throughout the engagement. We have grouped the feedback received into the following themes:
Under each theme we have included the community’s sentiment, data from survey results, direct quotes, and further information gathered during community sessions and stakeholder meetings.
Community values have long guided the future vision for the Apollo Bay Harbour.
For many years, the Apollo Bay community have shared with public land managers what they value about the Harbour. Several things have changed in recent years (e.g. new legislation, port and public land managers, and managers of the redevelopment project). During this engagement phase, we checked back in with locals to reconfirm what matters most. We drew on all the knowledge and community sentiment shared previously in developing the Draft Precinct Plan and developed survey questions that were designed to reconfirm that these values still hold true.
The feedback clearly reaffirmed the community’s commitment to preserving:
• The harbour’s relaxed, small-town character,
• It’s maritime history, and
• It’s function as a working port.
Participants strongly reinforced the importance of maintaining the authentic character of the Apollo Bay Harbour. Many emphasised its working port identity and unique local atmosphere as irreplaceable aspects of the town. There was widespread agreement that any redevelopment should reflect the relaxed, small-scale feel of Apollo Bay and preserve key views, open space, and the surrounding natural landscape.
Agree that the historic and social importance of the Apollo Bay Harbour as a commercial and recreational fishing hub must be maintained.
Agree the look and feel of the Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-op building, as well as its maritime character must be maintained.
Agree that future building designs should respect the natural surroundings and be modest in scale, with building heights that do not impact viewlines and landscape values.
97% 95% 83% 80% 56% 78% 90%
Agree that maintaining public open space is essential to preserving the character and amenity of the Apollo Bay Harbour.
Agree that the precinct is an important tourist attraction locally, regionally, and nationally. Regard to how port operations and tourists use the site must be considered in the redevelopment.
Recognise the impacts of climate change and agree that responding to coastal hazards is important to the redevelopment, ensuring the harbour, its buildings, and its infrastructure are resilient for years to come.
Agree that the views and vistas must be maintained (when at the Harbour, and views to the Harbour).
As one resident put it, “It’s a working harbour – not just a tourist destination. We can’t lose that identity.” Another described the precinct as “a place where locals and visitors connect with the ocean, the boats, and the rhythms of a small town. That’s the magic – it’s not polished, but it’s real.”
There was strong support for acknowledging Aboriginal cultural heritage and local maritime history through interpretive signage and storytelling across the site. “It would be great to see some storytelling – something that connects us to the First Peoples of this coastline,” suggested one participant. Another noted, “The harbour has layers of history – fishing, sailing, shipbuilding – this is a place that tells a story.”
Environmental areas of importance were highlighted by one community member sharing that “rare Gang Gang Cockatoos feed in the vegetation adjacent to the Co-Op” while also finding a “fossil of Equisetum, from the Miocene period, at Point Bunbury.”
The Co-Op building was frequently mentioned as central to this identity. Although many agreed the structure needs renewal, its role as a visual and cultural anchor was highlighted. “The Co-Op building might look tired, but it represents our past and present – don’t erase that,” wrote one contributor. Another said, “It’s part of the view, part of the story. It doesn’t need to be fancy – just respected.”
Overall, respondents urged that the vision for the precinct remain modest, inclusive, and grounded in Apollo Bay’s character: “Keep it local, keep it simple, and don’t overdevelop it. That’s what makes it special.”
Given the history of proposals to redevelop the harbour, many people expressed a desire to see elements of previous proposals delivered through the current process and a degree of frustration with constraints on the project: “While the plan includes practical improvements, it lacks boldness and broader transformation,” offered a submitter.
The Draft Precinct Plan references several potential upgrades to public facilities and open spaces to better support harbour users, beachgoers, and visitors. These include:
• A new public toilet at the upgraded Port Operations Depot (with potential to integrate change rooms, showers, and lockers)
• A community meeting space at the upgraded Port Operations Depot;
• Standalone changing huts near Mothers Beach;
• A new viewing deck;
• Landscaping and public furniture.
We asked the community which they would find most useful, where these should be located, and how the overall design could contribute to a more comfortable and inclusive public realm.
As noted in the Values section above, consistent feedback was received about retaining the character of the precinct.
Respondents preferred a simple and cohesive layout that would support beach users and harbour visitors without overwhelming the site. “Use natural colours and timber tones,” suggested one respondent, “so the amenities blend in – we don’t want a row of public toilets looking like shipping containers.”
Many were concerned about overdevelopment or amenities that felt out of place. “Less is more – we don’t need big blocks everywhere. Just good design that suits the location,” summarised one respondent.
The feedback confirmed strong community support for clean, practical, and accessible amenities that meet the everyday needs of locals and visitors. We’ve summarised the key insights below.
Which public amenities would you like to see?
The need for well-designed and accessible public amenities emerged as a consistent theme throughout community engagement. There was strong support for practical infrastructure such as toilets, showers, change rooms and lockers—ideally co-located at the Port Operations Depot or northern end of Mothers Beach. 80% 70% 30%
LOCKERS
One contributor explained, “We need real facilities – not just change huts. Toilets and showers should be in one place, so people don’t have to walk across the car park wet or sandy.” Another agreed, saying, “Let’s keep it simple and useful. No need for fancy design – just clean, accessible, and functional.”
Maintenance, safety, and universal access were also front of mind. One person wrote, “The toilets need to be cleaned more regularly, especially in summer – they get hammered.” Another raised, “Please make sure it’s accessible for wheelchairs and prams – level access, proper signage, and enough space.”
Community members were particularly in favour of locating full amenities at the northern end of the Mothers Beach car park, rather than just change huts. “If you’re putting in change huts, they should have toilets and showers too – otherwise it’s not that useful,” wrote one local. “That’s where people arrive and leave the beach – make it practical and inclusive.”
Several suggestions included relocating the existing golf shed to the western side of the Mothers Beach carpark and incorporating new public amenities and a “Changing Places” facility —a win-win that would better serve recreational use and improve convenience for all visitors.
Prefered location of beach changing huts:
Some respondents commented that the Draft Precinct Plan did not adequately identify that the public toilets at Point Bunbury would remain. While some would like to see these relocated, others want them to remain where they are to provide convenient access for people using the area around the boat ramp and Sailing Club.
There was also consistent feedback about the fish cleaning area. Respondents called for a dedicated and hygienic facility located away from public gathering spaces. One participant remarked, “The fish cleaning area must be better maintained – it currently gives a bad impression of the harbour,” while another added, “Please provide a proper fish cleaning facility that suits the working harbour but doesn’t interfere with recreation.”
The viewing deck was generally supported, as one respondent stated, “the upgrading of the Depot and the creation of the large, traffic-free deck outside the Co-op is excellent.”
47% of responders provided additional suggestions to increase shaded seating areas.
There were repeated calls for supporting infrastructure like shaded areas, seating, bike racks, water fountains and bins, particularly along paths, viewing areas, and at entry points. A community member noted, “There’s not enough shaded seating near the water – older people and families need places to rest and watch the harbour without baking in the sun.”
Connecting people safely and easily to key places within the harbour— and back into town—is a major focus of the Draft Precinct Plan. The proposed upgrades include a network of shared paths and pedestrian links that tie together:
• The town centre;
• Viewing areas;
• The working harbour;
• The Fishermen’s Co-Op;
• Breakwater Road.
We asked the community about preferred materials for new paths, and how to reduce pedestrian-vehicle conflict.
The responses showed a clear appetite for safe, well-marked, and visually appropriate pathways that respect the coastal character of Apollo Bay. Below, we unpack the community’s priorities for walking and cycling connections throughout the precinct.
A clear and consistent desire emerged for improved pedestrian connections across the site and to town, with safety, accessibility, and wayfinding all key priorities.
Many people supported the creation of a new boardwalk or shareduse path along the water’s edge to the Sailing Club. “This has been discussed for years. It would complete the coastal loop and finally provide a continuous path from town to Point Bunbury,” said a local resident.
Others urged that footpaths link all key locations: the Fishermen’s Co-Op, Mothers Beach, the new viewing deck, carparks, and town centre. The current lack of continuous sealed paths (separated from vehicle conflicts) was described as limiting access for older residents, families with prams, and those with limited mobility.
Survey data revealed that while sealed surfaces were favoured for safety and accessibility, many contributors noted a desire for natural finishes that blend into the landscape. “Please don’t just pour concrete. A gravel mix or boardwalk suits the coastal character much better” one submission advised.
The Nelson and Trafalgar Streets intersection adjacent to the Co-Op emerged as a particular concern. Almost all community meetings mentioned the safety issues posed by the confusing road layout and lack of pedestrian priority.
These contributors described the current arrangement as already hazardous, especially in peak season, and questioned the safety and feasibility of requiring pedestrians to cross the road, given that many naturally walk down the western edge of the ramp. “People will take the most direct route, regardless of what the plan says. They’ll walk down the road ramp, into oncoming traffic, unless a safer path is provided,” one resident observed.
Others, including the Apollo Bay Golf Club, suggested that modifications to nearby boundaries could support better pedestrian and traffic movement. Representatives advised that certain areas of the golf course could be set back to help ease congestion at the intersection.
58% of respondents raised a concern about safety at Nelson/Trafalgar .
From comments received, 58% raised a concern about safety at Nelson/Trafalgar
Several submitters and people attending consultation sessions pointed to the need for safe pedestrian access between the Co-Op intersection and Point Bunbury, highlighting that access along the road is shared by cars, vehicles towing boats and pedestrians. “This really is not acceptable and is inherently dangerous” one submitter noted.
In addition, a desire for better signage and wayfinding came through strongly. Participants called for consistent visual cues to help people navigate to the beach, the Co-Op, amenities, and viewing areas. “You shouldn’t need to be a local to know where everything is” said one survey participant.
Groups like the Chamber of Commerce and Port Consultative Committee reinforced the importance of strategic, safe connections within and to the precinct for both pedestrian and vehicle movement, citing the harbour’s role as a key regional destination.
Improving access, safety, and parking efficiency is another central aim of the Draft Precinct Plan. The proposal includes:
• Upgrades to the Mothers Beach car park;
• Accessible parking near key destinations;
• Access/storage solutions for emergency and harbour-related vehicles.
We explored community views on parking types, locations, and surfacing options—as well as the balance between vehicle access and pedestrian space.
Community responses emphasised the need for inclusive, well-laidout parking that supports essential users while enhancing safety and preserving views. Here’s what we heard:
47%
73% want improved parking at Mothers Beach support motorcycle parking
74% want acessible parking near Fishermans Co-Op
3/4 want accesible parking at Mothers Beach
While support for improved parking infrastructure was strong— particularly the inclusion of Disability Discrimination Act (DDA)compliant bays and a more efficient layout at Mothers Beach—many community members voiced concerns about congestion and vehiclepedestrian conflict throughout the precinct.
The intersection at Nelson and Trafalgar Streets was singled out repeatedly as a safety issue. One respondent described it as “a nightmare during the holidays – cars everywhere, no clear pedestrian crossing, it’s dangerous.” Another echoed this: “Trafalgar and Nelson needs fixing before someone gets hurt. We need a proper pedestrian crossing or lights.”
While sealed surfaces were preferred for safety and accessibility, many also valued the natural look. This was represented by the following comment; “In my opinion, the plan that you have at the moment should retain the natural look and feel of the harbour. This includes avoiding overly formalised road surfaces.”
Preferred path and road surface types:
The potential to remove vehicle access in front of the Fishermen’s Co-Op to create a more pedestrian-friendly space received broad support. “It’s such a great spot to walk and take in the view—cars shouldn’t be blocking that,” wrote one participant. “Make it a people place, not a carpark,” added another. However, a smaller number of respondents expressed a nostalgic attachment to being able to drive up and enjoy the harbour from their vehicles. “We’ve been getting fish and chips and sitting in the car to watch the boats since I was a kid. It’s part of the local experience,” one person shared.
There was widespread support for the provision of storage and improved boat access for Apollo Bay Ocean Rescue and Apollo Bay Sailing Club. “The Sailing Club plays a vital role in community safety—proper storage for the rescue boats is essential,” one submission stated. Another commented, “These groups support youth, inclusion and safety—they deserve priority.”
Several respondents raised the importance of ensuring the harbour remains accessible to essential vehicles. “Don’t forget the big trucks—fuel… deliveries, trailers. If we redesign, we need to make sure they can still get in and out,” one stakeholder advised. Another noted, “Caravans and trailers will always come—we need overflow parking and turning space, or traffic will back up into town.”
Motorcycle parking was briefly raised, with one survey comment suggesting, “Somewhere for bikes would be great—doesn’t need to be big, but it should be included.” Some community members also raised questions about bus parking, seeking clarity on how it will be integrated into the final Precinct Plan.
Bus access was identified as an issue for the entire precinct. The Chamber of Commerce noted that the precinct is likely to attract coach tours.
Parking concerns featured in a number of submissions. Concerns included the loss of parking at the Co-Op, lack of peak capacity at Mothers Beach and the impact of a lack of parking in the precinct during peak holiday times on traffic circulation and congestion. One submitter pointed to the likelihood of ... “informal parking along Nelson St, Trafalgar St and the Co-Op building’s rear, compromising pedestrian and vehicle safety in these locations.”
The Draft Precinct Plan includes proposals to upgrade two key harbour structures:
• The Fishermen’s Co-Op and
• The Port Operations Depot.
Both play important roles in the daily function of the harbour. In this round of engagement, we asked the community to reflect on the proposed changes, opportunities for activation, and how upgrades could support safer, more efficient use of space.
Feedback reinforced the significance of both buildings to Apollo Bay’s maritime identity and town character. The community expressed strong support for modest, respectful improvements that recognise and respect each structure’s function while improving usability. A summary of feedback is outlined below.
There was strong community support for a sensitive redevelopment of the 1940s Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-Op building. Many acknowledged its current tired condition but were equally passionate about its ongoing role and deep-rooted connection to the harbour’s working identity. As one participant noted, “The Co-Op is the heart of the harbour – it looks a bit run down, but that doesn’t mean it should be lost.” Another commented, “It’s old, but it tells the story of who we are. It just needs a refresh, not a complete transformation.”
All feedback on the Fishermen’s Co-Op expressed a combined sentiment of wanting to retain its character while also avoiding overdevelopment.
Retaining the modest scale and preserving the building’s maritime character was a repeated theme. Suggestions included minor extensions and upgrades that would better accommodate its function while enhancing public enjoyment of the area. One respondent offered: “Keep the gritty feel but open it up more—let people eat outside, walk around, connect with the space.” Others supported this idea of low-impact upgrades that maintain the heritage charm but improve usability.
The concept of indoor-outdoor dining and activation of the space surrounding the Co-Op was particularly well received. A submission from a local resident suggested, “Why not have fish and chips with seating on a deck out front? Still humble, still local, but more welcoming.”
However, views were more divided on the matter of vehicle access and parking directly in front of the Co-Op. While several people supported the removal of car access to prioritise pedestrian movement and a more pleasant public realm, others voiced strong attachment to the tradition of parking near the building. “It’s part of the culture here—grab a feed, watch the waves from your car. Don’t take that away,” said one local. In contrast, another stated, “The harbour should be for people, not for parked cars. That space could be a fantastic public area if you opened it up.”
This mix of opinions underscores the need for a balanced approach that respects local traditions while making space more inviting, safer and accessible to a wider range of users.
The Apollo Bay Harbour Port Operations Depot was widely acknowledged as a vital part of the harbour - supporting the safe, efficient and effective management of port operations. Community members consistently called for any building changes and additions to retain its function.
“The Depot should stay as a working space – it’s a functioning part of the harbour, not a tourist attraction,” said one contributor.
86%
of the community acknowledged the importance of the port operations being central to shaping the precinct’s unique character.
Several stakeholders supported incorporating amenities into the Port Operations Depot, provided it didn’t compromise storage for key harbour activities (eg. ocean rescue). “There’s a good opportunity to house showers and change rooms in the Depot, but it has to be practical,” noted a respondent.
There were also calls to improve safety and connectivity around the building. “Make it accessible and safe, yes – but don’t hide the fact it’s a depot,” said one session participant. Both the Apollo Bay Ocean Rescue and the Apollo Bay Sailing Club identified the Port Operations Depot as a possible site for rescue boat storage. This dual use – operational and community safety – was seen as valuable. “Storage for rescue equipment helps everyone,” a Sailing Club stakeholder shared.
Feedback was clear: the Port Operations Depot should be improved for function and safety.
Broader feedback reinforced the importance of respecting the area’s Aboriginal and maritime heritage across the entire precinct. Participants called for interpretive signage, artwork, and storytelling that respectfully acknowledge the Eastern Maar connection to Country and the harbour’s layered history. One submission stated, “There should be something that shares the stories of First Nations people – not just a plaque, but a visible presence throughout the site,” while another added, “The harbour has stories to tell. Let’s make space for those stories in the design, not just in the brochures.”
49%
of respondents expressed their interest to see more interpretive signage within the precinct.
The Freshwater Well, a site of cultural significance and historical interest within the Apollo Bay Harbour precinct, was frequently mentioned during community engagement.
Many respondents expressed a desire to better understand its location, and how it would be respected and preserved through the redevelopment. One participant noted, “We’ve heard stories about the freshwater spring since we were kids—it’s part of Apollo Bay’s living memory. Please don’t let it be forgotten in the upgrade.” Another shared, “It would be great to see the freshwater well acknowledged, with signage or something to tell its story properly.”
In response to this feedback—and in recognition of the site’s significance to both the Eastern Maar and the broader Apollo Bay community—a Freshwater Well Group (FWG) has been established.
Guided by the group’s Terms of Reference, the FWG will work closely with Traditional Owners, heritage experts, and local representatives to consider the likely location of the well and further investigations, and to recommend how the site can be appropriately recognised and protected in the final design.
This collaborative process aims to ensure that the Freshwater Well is respected, and that the Traditional Owner and community knowledge continues to inform decision-making throughout the life of the project.
This engagement phase has reinforced the deep connection the community holds with the Apollo Bay Harbour. From the stories shared at local markets and drop-in sessions, to the thoughtful insights submitted online, it’s clear that this place means a great deal to many.
The feedback received reflects a desire for balance—between protecting the harbour’s working operations and enhancing the space for everyday use; between honouring history and looking to the future. Community members have asked for practical improvements that respect the scale and character of Apollo Bay, with a strong emphasis on accessibility, functionality and thoughtful design.
These contributions will play a vital role in helping shape the next stage of the project. They will inform how the precinct evolves—from the look and feel of public spaces to the way buildings’ function, and how people move through and connect with the site.
Thank you to everyone who took the time to share their views. Your input ensures that the final Precinct Plan reflects the values, needs and aspirations of the Apollo Bay community.
All feedback received during the engagement period will inform the finalisation of the Precinct Plan and draft designs for the Co-Op, Depot and public realm. A ‘What we did with what we heard’ report will be released alongside the final Precinct Plan.
Thanks again to the community of Apollo Bay for having your say!
To stay up to date as the project progresses, please visit: www.haveyoursay.greatoceanroadauthority.vic.gov.au/AB-harbour
If you have further questions about the project, please visit the Have Your Say webpage.
For additional questions or to request accessible formats, contact the project team at: info@GreatOceanRoadAuthority.vic.gov.au