Barwon Coast secures funding for beach access upgrades

Barwon Coast is pleased to share it has received funding through the Victorian Government’s 2024–25 Coastal Public Access and Risk Grants Program.

This investment will support the replacement of beach access stairs at at Collendina (formerly known as 7W) and Corner, 13th Beach (formerly known as 30W); two key sites that have long served the community but now require urgent renewal.

This critical investment by the Victorian Government, alongside Barwon Coast’s project funding, enables us to reduce coastal risk and undertake essential works that protect both community safety and the coastal environment. 

The existing structures, over 25 years old, have suffered significant damage from storm events and coastal erosion. Their deteriorating condition has led to repeated closures and environmental degradation.

The new staircases will meet current safety standards, minimise environmental impact, and incorporate feedback from Barwon Coast’s recent Accessibility Community Survey.

Construction at Corner, 13th Beach will begin in October 2025 and be completed before the summer peak. Works at Collendina are scheduled to commence in February 2026 and conclude by May.

Barwon Coast acknowledges the support of Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos, Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant MP, DEECA, and the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners, whose collaboration is vital to the cultural and environmental integrity of these projects.