Submarine – HMAS Otama
The HMAS Otama is a decommissioned, British built submarine that was in service for 20 years and launched by Princess Anne in 1973.
In 2002, the Otama arrived in Hastings after the town won a tender against 32 other towns – the plan was to raise the fully-functioning Otama out of the bay and place it in a built structure on the Hastings foreshore, turning it into a museum and tourist attraction.
It was predicted:
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50,000 unique visitors would see the submarine per annum
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It would draw $5 million to Hastings in its first year
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Create 40 new local jobs
However, as the Foreshore is Crown-owned land, the Otama is still sitting in Western Port Bay, awaiting the final decision.
Port of Hastings
With Western Port Bay’s immense draught depth, the Port of Melbourne is presently planning on developing the area to take on freight ‘overflow’. Cutting down on one whole day’s worth of freighting, the plan will:
It is planned for the Port of Hastings to be completed by 2020.
Stony Point–Cowes Vehicular Ferry
To encourage tourism between Stony Point and Cowes, the Chamber has been supporting the introduction of the Stony Point Vehicular Ferry. This ferry would enable the township to:
- Create seasonal job opportunities for the young people of Hastings
- Boost community morale
- Build the reputation of Hastings as a desirable seaside location for families and ‘backyard explorers’
- Preserve and enhance heritage values
- Improve foreshore amenities
- Optimise opportunities for new and existing businesses
The ferry plans are currently on hold due to Cowes having environmental concerns in regard to the path the ferry would take.
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