Repairs planned following storm damage to Torquay seawall

BEACHGOERS are being advised to steer clear of the storm-damaged Torquay Front Beach seawall during this weekend’s hot weather.

Closures and immediate safety measures are in place to prioritise public safety at the seawall, Torquay SLSC concourse and ramp.

According to the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority (GORCAPA), the damage was caused by wild weather which hit the Surf Coast in September and October.

In September, Victoria endured extreme conditions, with winds over 130kmh and large swells over 2m, prompting GORCAPA crews to assess and repair damage from Torquay to Port Campbell.

High tides close to 2m and storm surges throughout October also “intensified wear and tear on vulnerable coastal areas,” GORCAPA stated.

GORCAPA stated public safety would be the top priority, as the authority “focused on urgent and long-term options to make the area safe and prevent further deterioration”.

“With warmer weather drawing more visitors to Torquay Surf Beach this weekend, public safety must come first,” GORCAPA asset manager Shane Blacket said.

“Our team is hard at work exploring options with structural engineers and DEECA, but in the meantime, we need everyone’s help to keep the beach safe.

“We urge everyone to respect the safety signage and stay well clear of the marked exclusion zones.”

Signage and hazard bunting are in place around the site to create a safe boundary around the damaged section of the seawall and ramp.

Foreshore rangers are patrolling the closed area twice daily to monitor conditions for any further changes.

Beachgoers can still reach the beach near the Spring Creek Rivermouth and are advised to observe the closures to avoid any potential safety risks.

GORCAPA said marine engineering consultants would assess the damage and determining remediation options at the site next week.

Inspections of the area are being aligned with the lowest daytime tides to ensure the safest and most thorough evaluation possible.

For the latest updates on the status of the repairs and reopening, head to greatoceanroadauthority.vic.gov.au