Portarlington pier section closed due to safety concerns

PARKS Victoria has closed part of the popular Portarlington Pier and Breakwater due to the instability of the northern arm of the structure.

The unstable rock foundation has rendered the area unsafe for public use, leading to the closure of 200 meters of the new northern breakwater for repair.

This decision follows a recent inspection by the authority as part of its ongoing marine asset management program, revealing structural issues in the outer section linked to movement in the underlying rocks.

The public has been asked not to enter the closed off section.

Parks Victoria has said that planning for the repairs is underway, but is not known when the repairs will start or are estimated to finish.

The remaining 280 metres of the breakwater and the Portarlington Pier will remain open to the public for fishing, walking and other recreational activities.

Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant said the Portarlington Harbour’s breakwater wall is a popular part of the Bellarine but people should stay away.

“We must make sure safety comes first, so I request people to stay out of the closed area and be patient while Parks Victoria carry out their work,” she said.

“I can assure the community that Parks Victoria is committed to ensuring safe access for visitors and the community into the future.”

In 2016, the Portarlington Safe Harbour project commenced, which included the construction of two rock breakwaters to the east and north of the Portarlington pier.

The northern breakwater that was already in place was extended by 370 metres as part of the project.

Portarlington Pier also recently underwent a $9.6 million upgrade that was completed in August 2022.