Torquay Surf Beach’s seawall, concourse and ramp will receive safety works to address significant storm damage.
Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority will install two layers of rock bags in front of the seawall to prevent further erosion and structural risks.
Exclusion zones with clear signage and hazard bunting have been established around damaged areas, and foreshore rangers will conduct twice-daily patrols to maintain public safety until works are completed.
Infrastructure and planning director Cath Olive said she asked all beach-goers to respect the safety measures while authorities responded to the coastal hazard.
“We appreciate the public’s patience as we carefully determine the best long-term course of action,” she said.
“These measures, including the installation of rock bags, are a crucial first step in preventing further deterioration.
“As a responsible land manager, safety must always come first when there is a known public risk, such as a potential landslide or asset failure.”
Specialist engineers with expertise in marine structures and environmental conditions have also been engaged to assess the damage and recommend long-term remediation options.
Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority will also develop a Regional Coastal Adaptation Plan to manage coastal hazard risks, including those in Torquay.
Community engagement events will be held across the region this weekend for people to share their insights in-person and online at a Coastal Adaptation Planning webinar on December 5 at 7pm.
Ms Olive said everyone who loved the “iconic coastline” should get involved in creating the new plan by sharing their knowledge, values, photos and perspectives.
“Natural coastal processes such as erosion, storm tide inundation, and cliff failure continue to change and shape the coastline we see today,” she said.
“Our coast is dynamic and ever-changing, so to help us strengthen resilience now and into the future, we’re creating a Regional Coastal Adaptation Plan.”
The community engagement sessions will be held in Skenes Creek and Apollo Bay on November 29, at the Apollo Bay Community Market on November 30, and at the Fresh Market Warrnambool on December 1.
Visit haveyoursay.greatoceanroadauthority.vic.gov.au/lookingforward for more information and further session details.
