The new pontoon at the Dimboola Rowing Club will be officially launched on Wednesday with a public event to be held on the banks of the river from 10am.

Hindmarsh Shire Council Mayor Ron Ismay will officially open the new pontoon, which is the culmination of a project involving the Dimboola Rowing Club, Wimmera Catchment Management Authority and the Hindmarsh Shire Council.

Cr Ismay said that the opening is suitably timed, given the Dimboola Rowing Club’s annual regatta coming up in early November.

“It is great to see the new rowing launch pontoon installed and already being put to work by the local rowing club’s members,” he said.

“The pontoon is a fantastic piece of waterway infrastructure and is sure to be popular with visiting rowers when they arrive for the regatta. I think it will also be popular with a myriad of other users as well, with the deck also a great spot from which to cast a line or to just dangle your feet in the water.”

The new pontoon replaces an old ramp structure, and in the process has improved accessibility and safety for those using it.

With rowing already a popular sport and recreational pursuit in Dimboola, Cr Ismay hopes to see a boost in those taking the opportunity to try rowing.

“Our official opening event was specifically planned to coincide with the school holidays so that younger people from throughout the shire might be encouraged to come along and inspect the new facility.”

He invites people to come along: “So why not come along and take a look at the pontoon for yourself and talk to the Club about how you might get involved.”

Anyone who would like to inspect the pontoon or attend the opening is welcome at the Rowing Club from 10am on Wednesday 2nd October.