An update on the redevelopment of Lorne Pier

WORKS on the new seawall at Point Grey are progressing well, according to the Lorne Aquatic and Angling Club (LAAC).

The club says construction began about 30m east of its clubhouse and has now reached the pier. The seawall will continue south of the pier before finishing at the boat-launching channel access ramp.

LAAC members have welcomed the design, which uses large armour rock and differs from some other seawall treatments along the Great Ocean Road.

The club says it has been advised that smoother rock walls can allow waves to surge further up and down the structure, increasing the risk of sand being washed from their foundations during heavy conditions.

By contrast, the new wall incorporates larger gaps between rocks, which are expected to help dissipate wave energy and provide habitat for marine life, including crabs and shellfish.

The original seawall installed in front of the former clubhouse more than 40 years ago had performed effectively over many years, the club noted.

The old boat ramp, used as the entry point for the Pier to Pub swim, will remain in place, with rock protection installed on either side.

Meanwhile, the former Fishermen’s Co-op building has now been demolished following the removal of asbestos, bringing an end to a longstanding local landmark – a change that has left some residents disappointed.

Construction of the new clubhouse is also progressing, with the concrete slab recently poured. Club members say the building appears larger than many had anticipated.

But concerns remain about the area south of the pier behind the former Co-op site, where no rock protection has been installed.

The club points to a storm event several years ago, when a combination of large swell, a spring tide and strong onshore winds eroded about 1.5m of the bank in a matter of hours.

If you see or suspect any illegal fishing in Victoria, call the 24/7 reporting service, 13FISH (133474), to speak directly to a fisheries officer. You can remain anonymous.