Construction begins on new home for Apollo Bay Fish Co-Op

Patience is a virtue: Project moves into construction after more than 15 years

Construction has begun on the new home of Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-Operative after more than 15 years in the making, with the co-operative expecting the premises to open in late 2027.

Funding for the Apollo Bay Harbour Redevelopment forms part of the Geelong City Deal, alongside a co-funded grant from Regional Development Victoria for the co-operative’s building. The project is being managed by the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority, with successful tenderer BowdenCorp having commenced work on the multimillion-dollar development.

The co-operative’s newly appointed chief executive officer, Anthony Brown, said the project marked a new chapter for an organization that has played a significant role in Apollo Bay for more than 75 years.

“With a motivated and passionate board, I am genuinely excited to play an integral role in an exciting chapter for the Co-op that has played a significant role in Apollo Bay for over 75 years,” Brown said.

“The past twelve months have been challenging since having to move from the Harbour to allow for the redevelopment, and the next twelve months will also be challenging, however we have an incredible opportunity and future ahead of us, our team and locals that are excited, and it is great so many regional suppliers have already expressed interest in partnering with us on this project and our future.”

Brown, who was instrumental in the recent development of tourism on Tasmania’s West Coast, said the redevelopment would contribute to the region’s visitor offering.

“We are excited for the future of Great Ocean Road Tourism on the back of the opening of Keerray Woorroong Visitor Centre - Twelve Apostles, this project will transform the Co-op and Apollo Bay, providing an improved visitor experience and tourism appeal, due to open late 2027,” he said.

“We look forward to keep everyone updated on the project progress and welcoming everyone to our new home.”

Updates on the project’s progress will be available through the co-operative’s media channels.

Celebrating 75 Years Of The Apollo Bay Fishermen's Cooperative.

Short film produced and directed by Jackson Hayat

The Fishermen’s Co-Operative

Operating for over 75 years

Founded in 1948, Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-operative brings together the people, seafood and stories of Victoria’s Great Ocean Road. Established by fishermen working together to find markets for their catch, the Co-op grew into a hub for the fishing industry and the community. Its history is woven into Apollo Bay’s working harbour, where generations of fishers have built livelihoods through skill, persistence and cooperation.

For more than seven decades, the Co-op has helped connect the waters of Bass Strait with households, restaurants and seafood lovers. Cold storage, seafood handling and access to markets were central to its early role, providing infrastructure that supported local fishing businesses. Today, that heritage continues through a business that combines seafood retail, hospitality and relationships with the fishing community.

Southern Rock Lobster remains a signature part of our identity, alongside the variety of fish and shellfish associated with this coastline. Our offering celebrates the quality of local seafood while giving residents and visitors an opportunity to experience Apollo Bay’s fishing culture through the food they buy, prepare and enjoy. We are proud to be part of a regional economy where fishing, tourism and community life are closely connected.

The Co-op is now entering a period of renewal. While our harbour premises undergo redevelopment, we continue serving the community through our Pascoe Street food outlet and Great Ocean Road fish market. These operations maintain our connection with customers and keep the Co-op’s story moving forward during the transition.

Our next chapter centres on a revitalised harbour home, with plans for improved refrigeration, seafood tanks and cooking facilities, a wet fish market, indoor dining and an outdoor terrace. These improvements will strengthen the experience for customers and provide facilities better suited to the needs of a seafood business.

Looking ahead, our ambition is to build on the strengths that have sustained the Co-op: cooperation, quality seafood, local knowledge and a strong sense of place. We want to deepen the connection between fishers and customers, create opportunities for our people and contribute to Apollo Bay’s future as a working coastal community and seafood destination.

As one of Victoria’s few remaining fishermen’s co-operatives, we carry a legacy into this new chapter. Our future will honour the people who built the Co-op while welcoming new customers, partnerships and possibilities. From Bass Strait to plate, we aim to share the flavour, character and enduring spirit of Apollo Bay with every generation.