Local MPs determined to keep Viva in Geelong as environmental advocates demand marine report
A detailed report revealing the possible marine impacts of the proposed dredging at Geelong Port must be completed and publicly released, environmental advocates say.
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A detailed report revealing the possible marine impacts of the proposed dredging at Geelong Port must be completed and publicly released, environmental advocates say.
The Geelong Advertiser reported this week that deliberately underloading oil tankers due to Corio Bay’s shallow depth was costing Viva Energy about $20m a year.
Days after the energy giant floated the possibility of a shutdown from November, Geelong Port chief executive Brett Winter said an optimised channel would allow greater flexibility for the state’s ports.
The Victorian Regional Channel Authority is completing preliminary assessments into the feasibility of deepening the existing 12.3m channel; consideration is being given to 13.5m, 14.5m and 15.5m.
Geelong Environment Council’s Joan Lindross said the environmental impacts of any dredging must be thoroughly explored because the habitat of the bay was vital for local marine life.
“A full environmental study must be completed if this is to be considered,” Ms Lindross said.
It’s understood Viva could be in for $75m from the federal government after a nationwide refinery support package was announced by the federal government earlier this week.
Although a timeline for that money, and a separate share of $200m to deliver more diesel storage nationally, is yet to be locked in.
Victorian senator Sarah Henderson, who supports the channel deepening “subject to the granting of all requisite environmental approvals”, said: “When it comes to backing the Geelong Refinery and manufacturing workers in such a vital industry, Victorian Labor has been missing in action.”
The state government was given multiple opportunities to explain its plan to support Viva last week.
Lara MP John Eren said he was constantly speaking with Viva to try to ensure the company would continue to operate sustainably in the region.
Mr Eren said while the dredging was being considered, the cost of the project, who would pay for it and the environmental impact of dredging must be explored.
“There is no question I want Viva to be in Geelong as long as possible,” Mr Eren said.
The Victorian government confirmed Viva Energy participated in stakeholder engagements led by the Victorian Regional Channels Authority regarding dredging the Geelong Port for the purposes of all port users since the start of the year.
Federal Corangamite Labor MP and environmentalist Libby Coker did not reveal her position on the channel deepening but called for guaranteed support for Viva from the commonwealth.
“All we saw (at Monday’s announcement of a $200m refinery package) was just another announcement and photo opportunity from the Prime Minister. Workers in our region are relying on more from this government.”
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Originally published as Local MPs determined to keep Viva in Geelong as environmental advocates demand marine report