Uncertain future remains for Docklands’ heritage fleet as Seaworks move looms

Docklands’ much-loved heritage fleet faces renewed uncertainty, with Development Victoria (DV) pushing ahead with plans to relocate the vessels to Williamstown’s Seaworks precinct – despite serious logistical, financial, and timing concerns. 

DV had sought to relocate the fleet from North Wharf by the end of 2025, offering no further lease extensions for the Alma Doepel, Enterprize or steam tug Wattle beyond this point.

However, DV confirmed with Docklands News in July that the fleet would be able to continue berthing at Collins Wharf through to mid-2026, providing some relief to operators as a relocation solution is finalised.

While DV has proposed Seaworks as a new home, stakeholders have raised alarm that the precinct won’t have berthing capacity for larger vessels like the Alma until at least mid-2026, but it’s likely this period will be longer.

DV’s position has prompted frustration and concern among the heritage operators, with the Alma Doepel team stressing that any move without a confirmed and viable new home is untenable.

Docklands News understands that the Alma Doepel team has made it clear it will resist any relocation unless a secured location is in place and would be seeking financial support to make any such move feasible.

While the Alma Doepel team, which has been restoring the century-old sailing vessel in Docklands for 16 years, is now increasingly open to relocating to Seaworks, commercial lease rates at the Williamstown facility present a significant challenge.

The not-for-profit operators currently enjoy security of tenure at North Wharf – provided rent-free with utility support by DV for more than a decade.

Ironically, the Enterprize once called Seaworks home, but was relocated to Docklands in 2009 after rising commercial rents became unviable.

Despite the heritage fleet’s role in activating Victoria Harbour and preserving the area’s maritime identity, DV appears determined to sever ties with the vessels ahead of its planned withdrawal from Docklands by 2030.

One viable solution remains at NewQuay beside Ron Barassi Snr Park – a location that could keep the fleet together and in Docklands. But DV has dismissed the site as “not suitable” saying that it lacks essential services such as water, electricity and direct access to the water.

Critics argue these problems are solvable with moderate investment and the will to support a meaningful outcome.

However, in addition, DV says part of the site is under contract for future development and includes an exclusion zone due to deterioration of the seawall.

The Alma’s team has long sought to remain in Docklands – the ship’s historic home for most of the past 50 years. In March, Alma Doepel chair Matt McDonald said it was “extremely disappointing” that DV had failed to provide a viable alternative, despite making commitments for a Docklands home for more than a decade.

DV’s own 2012 Community and Place Plan acknowledged the need to “facilitate the development of berths for heritage vessels, including the Alma.” But with less than six months remaining, the pathway forward remains unclear.

As stakeholders scramble to secure a future for the fleet, one thing is certain: unless DV reengages in good faith and provides real support, the Docklands community stands to lose a defining part of its identity.

DV’s acting group head precincts, Ronan Mellan, told Docklands News that it was “continuing discussions with the heritage fleet and Seaworks and will support their relocation.”

DV reiterated that it has provided substantial support to the Heritage Fleet, valued at around $800,000 over 16 years. This support has included access to berthing and workshop space, along with coverage of utilities and other operational costs.

DV added that together with Lendlease, it had done everything it could to support the fleet, extending its occupation at Collins Wharf for as long as possible.

However, DV has left the door open for exploring “longer-term opportunities for the fleet at Docklands” by working alongside the fleet and the City of Melbourne. •