Beach near Demons Bluff closed for public safety

THE beach below Demons Bluff near Anglesea was closed last week for the public’s safety due to further landslips in the area.

Monthly monitoring of the cliffs at Demons Bluff has shown cracks in the cliff face widening, increasing the risk of more landslips occurring.

Landslips are unpredictable and can occur without warning. The size of material that falls onto the beach can be very large, with rocks and debris a potentially fatal hazard.

Authorities have installed signage at all beach access points advising of the closure. The community is urged to adhere to the closure and avoid the area for their safety.

Nearby alternative beaches include Anglesea, Point Roadknight and Point Addis.

The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP), Parks Victoria and the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority (GORCAPA) will continue monitoring the cliffs and undertaking geotechnical studies in the area.

“Many cliff areas along the Surf Coast, particularly between Jan Juc and Aireys Inlet, are susceptible to erosion and landslips,” DELWP regional manager Michael Noelker said.

“These unpredictable events occur without warning and can have severe consequences for anyone on the beach below.”

“A series of recent landslips means closing the beach below Demons Bluff is the best option to keep our community safe.”

GORCAPA acting chief executive officer Daniel Aitken said the decision to close the beach was not made lightly, but recent activity in the area meant it was the safest option to ensure the safety of beach users.

“We’re urging the community to follow all signage and fencing that’s in place to keep themselves and their families safe when visiting the beach,” he said.

“There are many great alternative beaches nearby, so now may be an opportunity to visit a new location or revisit a beach you may not have been to recently.”