A SIGNIFICANT upgrade of the Schnapper Point boat ramp in Mornington is scheduled to get underway in February, with works designed to modernise the heavily used facility and improve access for boaters.
Mornington Peninsula Shire has secured funding through Better Boating Victoria to renew the ageing ramp, which currently operates as a two-lane facility with finger jetties on either side. The project will focus on increasing capacity, improving safety and upgrading infrastructure that has reached the end of its operational life.
Planned improvements include a new concrete manoeuvring area, a dedicated pedestrian crossing, a northern finger pier and a fish cleaning table. The ramp itself will be widened and extended, with provision for a southern finger pier should additional funding become available.
The Schnapper Point ramp is one of the most frequently used boating access points on the Mornington Peninsula, prompting the shire to prioritise its renewal. A detailed condition assessment of the existing ramp and jetties was undertaken by a consultant, who identified the need for replacement works.
Community feedback also played a key role in shaping the project. Early in 2024, the shire consulted with key stakeholders and held a pop-up engagement session for the wider community. Input received during this process was incorporated into the final design, which has now been completed.
Regulatory approvals are in place, with a planning permit granted for the delivery stage of the project and Marine and Coastal Act consent received from the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA).
Deputy mayor Cr Paul Pingiaro said the upgrade was essential and welcomed the state government’s support.
“Clearly the asset was at the end of its life. The shire, while managing the program, is thankful for the state government for prioritising it. It is one of our highly used ramps. We look forward to the improvements and upgrades and dredging that’s part of the project,” Cr Pingiaro said.
The construction phase is expected to take around six months, with the ramp projected to reopen in October, aligning with the snapper season.
Pingiaro acknowledged boaters would experience some disruption during the works but said the outcome would deliver lasting benefits.
First published in the Mornington News – 10 February 2026
