Storm damage to Torquay seawall set to affect sporting events

TWO Torquay sporting events slated for this weekend will be altered due to significant storm damage to the Torquay Front Beach seawall.

This morning (Thursday, November 7), the seawall was detected by beachgoers as visibly eroding, with large cracks separating the seawall from the beachfront path.

The site was reported to the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority (GORCAPA), who have since closed the affected part of the seawall, promenade and beach area.

The Torquay Triathlon and Surfing Victoria Micro Groms Cup events were both slated to use Torquay Front Beach as a primary location this weekend.

Triathlon organisers have said they will alter the running course along the foreshore at Torquay to avoid the damaged area.

 

“We are monitoring it, but we’ve done lots of planning, risk assessment and contingency planning, so we are well prepared for these things,” deputy chief warden Lisa Anderson said.

“Our run course will be moved, and we stick up on the top footpath well above the seawall.

“It will have an impact on community, as all athletes and community will need to share the path.

“We’ve got over 450 registered, so there will be a lot of traffic, and we ask people to be patient and co-operate with us.

“We will continue working with GORCAPA and relevant authorities throughout the next few days on how it will all look.”

Surfing Victoria head of events and marketing Liam Robertson said his organisation was closely monitoring the situation.

“We are working closely with the Surf Coast Shire Council and GORPCA ahead of the event this weekend.

“Torquay is the primary location for the event, and with the seawall collapse, competitors and spectators may need to use a different access to the beach.

“We will be communicating this to competitors before the event commences.”

The Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority has put clear signage and hazard bunting in place as well as safe boundaries around the damaged sections and nearby ramp.

During this time, beachgoers can access the beach near the Spring Creek Rivermouth and are encouraged to enjoy other open areas of the beach and observe the closures to avoid any potential safety risks.

“We know Torquay Surf Beach is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, and our teams are focused on public safety while we proactively assess options for repairs,” a GORCAPA spokesperson said.

“Our Foreshore Rangers are out daily, monitoring conditions, and we’re collaborating with the Department of Energy, Environment, and Climate Action to evaluate repair options, with the goal of restoring safe access as soon as possible.”

GORCAPA will be in touch with the Torquay Surf Lifesaving Club, surf schools, and event organisers to keep everyone informed.