Councillor column – 20 April 2023

Published on 21 April 2023

Hello to all residents, ratepayers, and visitors to the Borough of Queenscliffe.

Cr Ross Ebbels here, I’m currently in my second term as a Councillor, I was the mayor for a 3-year stint and my portfolio is Local Economy. This is a fitting portfolio for me given I have been a long-term business operator in the Borough and the Bellarine, and am passionate about local economic development

It certainly was wonderful to see so many people around town across the Easter long weekend, I know from experience that local businesses definitely appreciate the extra patronage – so please continue to shop local where you can too.

Regional Tourism has reported that visitor spend is back to pre-covid times, although interestingly,  our visitor numbers are down a little which means those that are coming into our area are spending more. This is encouraging for local traders who are often buoyed by tourist patronage.

The Borough continues to attract tourists and day-trippers, why wouldn’t it, with so much to see and do. Now that Queenscliffe Hub (Wirrng Wirrng) is completed we have the Queenscliffe Historical Museum, Queenscliffe Visitor Information Centre, and Queenscliff Library all under one roof. By providing outstanding educational, cultural and information services, the Queenscliffe Hub offers substantial economic and social benefits for our region. It’s wonderful to see that this venue has been well received with very strong visitor numbers for the first six months since opening.

The long-awaited and iconic Queenscliff Ferry Terminal redevelopment has opened to accommodate visitor numbers, proving to be a destination for those who are not even travelling on the ferry! If you haven’t had the chance to wander around the Queenscliff Terminal, I really recommend you do. While you’re in the area, spend some time at the Queenscliffe Harbour, wander around the shops, and grab a bite to eat – you’re spoiled for choice! And don’t forget that the Queenscliffe Maritime Museum continues to deliver an exciting array of events open to the public, including tales from the iconic Lifeboat Shed Stories, April 20, 22, 27 and 29th - lots to learn from our maritime stories of the past.

Queenscliffe is soon to host a selection of notable events in the coming months that will certainly bring the visitors to town, helping to boost our local economy during our shoulder and winter season. The Sacrededge festival May 5-7, brings together art, music, and stories, celebrating diversity with a focus on First Nations, Refugees, LGBTIQA+, well-being, and sustainability – tickets are now available. The Queenscliffe Literary Festival is gearing up to deliver another stellar cast of fine authors and thinkers to prompt thought and discussion, held over three weekends in May, it really is worth setting aside some time to go along to a few sessions – tickets now on sale.

Speaking of excellent events, the 2023 Borough of Queenscliffe events sponsorship funding was allocated earlier this year. Council was delighted to receive significant interest from a range of local events and clearly, a lot of effort went into each submission, unfortunately only a few can be successful for funding.

This year’s successful candidates are the Bellarine Arts Trail (BAT), Shedding the Blues Queenscliff Tune-up #3 Expo, and Point Lonsdale Board Riders Club – Groms off the Wall. Something for everyone really, if you can, get involved and support our local initiatives.

In the next column, you will hear from my colleague Cr Donnie Grigau, who holds responsibility for Council’s Health and Wellbeing portfolio.

We love hearing from our community,  please feel free to reach out to me and/or any of the Borough of Queenscliffe Councillors via the contact details on Council’s website.

And remember to shop locally where you can!

‘til next time,

Nyatne baa Gobata

(Thank you and take care)

Cr Ross Ebbels
Councillor, Borough of Queenscliffe