New plan to remove tonnes of sand offshore to restore Portsea foreshore
It was one of Victoria’s most prized beaches before washing away. Now there’s a radical plan to restore Portsea Beach to its former glory.
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Tonnes of sand off Portsea would be dug up in a drastic plan to restore the iconic beach to its former glory.
The radical proposal would see a section of Port Phillip Bay dredged in a bid to reduce waves which have washed away the famous stretch of foreshore.
Sandbags installed a decade ago to prevent further erosion have been branded an eyesore.
Mornington Peninsula Shire mayor Sam Hearn, whose council
is leading the push, told the Herald Sun: “Portsea Beach up until 10 years ago was one of the most iconic beaches.”
“It’s been a massive loss not only for the Portsea community but the whole Victorian community,’’ Cr Hearn said.
“That’s why it’s been a real priority for us — to get it back to the way it’s meant to be.
“We’re excited about the real prospect of it being returned and a lot of people will be able to enjoy it again.”
Mornington Peninsula Shire advised it was working with the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning and scientists to work out a way to restore the beach.
The Futurefish Foundation group — which aims to protect recreational fishing — was also involved.
Significant sand replenishment would be required if the plan to deepen the bay offshore goes ahead.
“A short term solution with sandbags has become a 10-year reality for the local community,’’ Cr Hearn said.
“It’s definitely been a longstanding issue in a lot of people’s minds wanting to see the beach restored.
“The change in wave action and impact has removed the sand from the section of beach.
“The dredging would be aiming to change that wave pattern again and the current of the water so the sand stays on that area of the beach.
“There have been a range of options analysed and we’re pretty hopeful and encouraged that we’re moving to an agreed set of actions and solutions.”
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Talks would now continue with the environment department about funding and the project’s specifics and timeline.
Portsea Beach is ranked among only five north-facing beaches in Australia.
Repairs to the existing sandbag
seawall began earlier this year.