Gem Pier

Gem Pier is a public pier in Williamstown located at the end of Syme Street, offering views across Port Phillip Harbor. The pier is home to the HMAS Castlemaine, a warship launched in 1941 that now operates as a floating museum with displays about naval history and maritime life.

The HMAS Castlemaine was built in 1941 and served during World War II in the Pacific region, including New Guinea and Northern Australia. After its years of service, the vessel was permanently stationed at Williamstown where it became a key memorial to Australian naval history.

Gem Pier is named after the paddle steamer Gem, which ran a ferry service between Williamstown and Port Melbourne from 1846 to 1886. Before that it was called The Jetty, Old Pier and Steamboat Pier. The museum ship HMAS Castlemaine is now moored at the pier.

Gem Pier runs 145 metres (476 ft) along Port Phillip Bay at the end of Syme Street in Williamstown. The museum ship HMAS Castlemaine is moored alongside, and Melbourne Seaplanes operates from the pier, so expect activity on the water as well as on the deck.

The location serves as a departure point for ferries crossing Port Phillip to Melbourne's Southgate, and offers views of seaplanes regularly taking off and landing from a nearby air station. The blend of maritime heritage, museum visits, and active harbor operations creates a rare spot where history and present-day activity meet directly.