Reminder to Stay Safe Around Coastal Cliffs

Authorities are reminding the community to follow advice and stay safe around coastal cliffs between Torquay and Aireys Inlet.

Like all coastal environments, these cliffs are subject to dynamic weather events and prone to cracking, erosion and landslips.

Near Anglesea, monthly monitoring of the cliffs at Demons Bluff has shown widening cracks in the cliff face and authorities are expecting further erosion or a landslide in the future.

It is impossible to accurately predict when landslips may occur, but the widening of cracks at the top of the cliff increases the risk of an event occurring. There is often no warning and the volume of material that falls onto the beach below can be very large.

Signage is installed on the beach, at the boat ramp and along the cliff-top, with anyone visiting the area strongly reminded to follow that advice for their safety.

Visitors to the beach should not walk underneath the cliffs at any time.

The Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority (GORCAPA) has also installed fencing along the cliff top and is delivering revegetation programs to help reduce the risk to the public in these areas.

Because at high tide, the waves reach the base of the cliffs, it is not possible to construct barrier fencing to close the area completely. Visitors need to actively take steps to protect themselves from harm and remain well away from the cliffs.

DELWP, Parks Victoria and GORCAPA are undertaking further geotechnical studies to investigate the situation and identify the best way to manage this risk to public safety.

Comments attributable to DELWP Regional Manager, Michael Noelker

“Many cliff areas, particularly in the area between Jan Juc and Point Roadknight, and at Aireys Inlet, are susceptible to instability.”

“We’re reminding everyone to follow common sense and keep themselves and their families safe by following all signage and fencing.”

Comments attributable to GORCAPA Acting CEO, Daniel Aitken

“This is a naturally occurring issue happening right along our coastline. All beach users should remain on designated tracks and do not walk below the cliffs.”