Dredging works have begun on the Barwon River which will allow the City of Greater Geelong to continue to deliver major events such as the Head of the Schoolgirls rowing regatta.
The Head of the Schoolgirls rowing regatta is one Geelong’s most celebrated sporting events attracting more than 10,000 spectators with 1,200 athletes.
City of Greater Geelong Major events portfolio holder Councillor Ron Nelson said the Head of the Schoolgirls rowing regatta generates an estimated $2 million per year.
“ The regatta makes a huge economic impact in Geelong helping our local traders ,” said Nelson. “ The event also brings in visitors from outside of Geelong with 84 per cent of participants and spectators coming from other regions. This is why it was important that the Barwon River rowing mile be dredged to ensure we continue to hold the Head of the Schoolgirls in the future and other rowing events .”
All environmental precautions are being taken whilst dredging in removal of sediment, including compliance with relevant statutory approvals.
Nelson said The City of Greater Geelong provided funding of $200,000, the Victorian Government contributed $250,000 and the Corangamite Catchment Management Authority contributed $50,000 for dredging works.
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Press Release, June 19, 2014