Council grants 21-year lease to Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Cooperative
April 22, 2019
Colac Otway Shire Council will advertise its intention to grant a 21-year lease to the Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-operative for the Co-op building and surrounding land at the Apollo Bay Harbour, providing certainty for the iconic driver of the local economy.
The Apollo Bay Fisherman’s Cooperative has operated since 1948 and is one of only three fishermen’s co-operatives in Victoria.
The Co-operative is located on Crown Land at the Apollo Bay Harbour which is managed by Council and the new lease is the longest tenure available for Council to grant the Co-operative.
Colac Otway Shire Mayor Cr Jason Schram said the signing of the new lease would be a good news story for Apollo Bay and the shire.
“Our shire is extremely fortunate to have a working harbour and a Co-op which is developing an exciting new strategy to showcase its history, environment and premium seafood,” Cr Schram said.
“The Co-op has invested significantly in the leased and licensed areas, which includes a seafood processing area, fish and chip shop, car park and fuel facility on the jetty, in recent years.
“The Co-op has constructed a viewing deck, electrical upgrades including tank cooling systems and refrigeration, and upgrades to the pontoon, pump room and kitchen.
“The signing of a long-term lease will support the Co-op’s plans to expand in the future with the development of a two-storey restaurant overlooking the harbour as part of the City Deal-funded redevelopment.
“The operation provides employment and a significant flow-on economic benefit to Apollo Bay and the region.”
The proposed agreement for the land (1735 square metres) and building (668 square metres) includes an annual fee of $34,000 for the combined lease and licence, for review every three years.
Council Enquiries
(03) 5232 9400