The St Leonards Boat Ramp at Ward Street opened in December 2024, featuring a brand-new jetty and an
expanded T-section at the edge that is now twice as wide as it was before. This
upgraded jetty is equipped with wave screens that effectively shield users from
northerly and easterly winds and waves.
The launching area was
also dredged to make it easier to access the water, regardless of the tide.
While the new jetty helps with wave protection, only two of the four existing
boat ramp lanes will be protected against wave action in some wind directions.
The Victoria State Government plans to add a new lane on each side of the
existing ramps, making three lanes on each side to ensure that there are always
three ramp lanes that will be protect against waves, which is important for
boaters when retrieving their vessels.
A new accessible
gangway and lower landing are available on the northern side, making it easier
for people of all abilities to board vessels.
The ramp has a
non-slip deck, rubber fenders, cleats for tying ropes, and solar lighting to
enhance safety and ease of use.
In early 2025, a hoist
will be added to the accessible pontoon, along with seating on the jetty and
some minor concrete work. Ramp access will stay open during these updates.
There is plenty of
parking for cars and trailers, but it can get crowded, especially on weekends
and holidays. Facilities include a fish cleaning area and a toilet block just a
few meters from the ramp. Additionally, there are picnic tables, benches, rubbish
bins, and shaded areas for convenience. The ramp is also teeming with pelicans, so there's a big chance you'll find them when you visit this ramp.
| Feature |
Description |
| Number of ramp lanes |
4 (with a jetty in the middle) |
| Fish cleaning facilities |
Yes |
| Carpark spaces |
Ample parking spaces for cars and trailers |
| Amenities |
Toilets, picnic tables and benches, lighting, rubbish bins |
| Ramp rating |
 - Very Good |
If you’re considering
purchasing a boat or upgrading your boat engine, Geelong Boating Centre is a
great destination to check out. Located just a 37-minute drive from the ramp,
they offer a diverse selection of Quintrex, Seafarer, and White Pointer boats,
as well as Yamaha outboards. In addition to boats and engines, they provide
trailers, marine gear, a wide range of boating equipment, and pool servicing
making it a one-stop shop for all your boating and recreation needs.