Beach access upgrades to improve safety on Bellarine

TWO major beach access points on the Bellarine will be closed until the end of the year while repair works are completed.

The 17W (Bukareeyoo/Ocean Grove) and 36W (13th Beach) access stairs will be reconstructed to help improve access and safety for beach users.

The removal of concrete and rocks and the rehabilitation of the dune face will also be part of the 17W upgrades.

Minor car park upgrades will complement the staircase replacements at 36W.

Barwon Coast acting chief executive officer, Paul Gangell said the project was key in taking care of the coast.

“Both sets of new beach access stairs will improve community access, safety and minimise the impacts of coastal processes on the surrounding coastal environment.

“The 17W west beach access point has been closed since 2022 due to a risk to public safety, and we look forward to re-opening these beach access points for our community and coastal visitors.”

During this time, beachgoers are advised to use other beach access points along the 13th Beach stretch.

Works are expected to be complete in late 2023/early 2024. For more, visit www.barwoncoast.com.au/