3.1.2 Boating Context Boating is an important recreational and social outlet for many people. Boat registration is increasing faster than population growth. The size of boats is increasing, as is the demand for launching and retrieval and boat storage facilities. The boating industry contributes significantly to employment and economic activity in Victoria, with direct expenditure on boating of $1.4 billion in 2005, as well as contributing to our health and enjoyment of the coast (Central Coastal Board, 2007). Queenscliff Ian Walton Economically important commercial fishing fleets, diving vessels, tourism operations and marine management, research, and search and rescue boats also operate from boat ramps and facilities along the coast. It is important to understand and strategically manage the increasing demand for improved and new boating facilities. We need to provide safe access to, from and on the water while ensuring impacts on the natural environment and coastal processes are minimised. The safety of boat users and swimmers is paramount. The high capital and maintenance cost of infrastructure to support boating activities remains a challenge for coastal planners, managers and community-based clubs and groups. Balancing these needs with those of other coastal user groups and the ongoing pressure for commercial development will become an increasing challenge. Policy 1. Strategically plan for and deliver sustainable boating facilities and infrastructure on the coast via Coastal Action Plans that respond to a demand assessment, safety considerations, the protection and sustainable management of coastal processes, conservation objectives, and quality of experience for all beach users. 2. Provide new access and review existing inappropriate access in accordance with the recreational boating facilities hierarchy. See figure 11 page 86 . 3. Ensure the provision of effluent disposal facilities at strategic boating locations to address illegal sewage discharge from boats. Actions a Develop and implement (and/or review as required) boating Coastal Action Plans across Victoria (RCB, MSV, PV, CoM, LG). b Develop a long-term strategy for the upgrade and sustainable development of safe boating facilities and infrastructure at strategically identified sites along the Victorian coast (DSE, PV, MSV).

10 December 2008