Inverloch’s sandy coastline is exposed to the full force of the powerful Southern Ocean, which results in a dynamic and changing environment. With more frequent storms and rising sea levels, Inverloch surf beach has lost over 70 meters of foreshore dunes since 2012. Use the arrow tool to swipe left and right to see the comparison of Inverloch Surf Beach from 2012 to 2024.

• Since August 2024, we’ve had several storm surges causing damage to the dunes. Council have replaced tonnes of sand in areas vulnerable to further erosion. Future storm events are expected to wash this sand away rather than eroding further into the dune
• We’ve recently moved driftwood against the dune base to help protect from further erosion, and to remind community to keep a safe distance from unstable dunes
• Installation of safety signage and fencing is underway at affected areas of the Inverloch Surf Beach, and community information is being developed so visitors and locals can easily access the beach and remain safe.
• A community information sign will be created alongside regular updates to the Council’s website.
• Some beach access tracks have been closed due to erosion and further closures are possible. Please refer to the image below to see which tracks have been closed.
  

There's more to do and we can't do it alone.

• Ongoing Monitoring: Council will continue tracking foreshore erosion patterns and conditions; and continue to share this information with other responsible agencies.
• Urgent Advocacy: Council will advocate to the Department of Energy, Environment, and Climate Action (DEECA) and Minister Steve Dimopoulos for expedited dune stabilisation works to mitigate storm impacts and prepare for high tides expected around Easter.
• Engineering Assessments: Council will work with DEECA and other agencies to explore options such as geotextile, rock walls, or rock bag walls in alignment with the Cape to Cape Resilience Plan.
• Summer Preparation: Ahead of the busy summer season, Council will undertake works to ensure safe public access to the beach including updates on access points and foreshore conditions.
• Communications: A public communications plan will provide timely updates, an information board at the Inverloch Life Saving Club, regular updates on Council’s website.
• Dune restoration: A community revegetation program will be supported in collaboration with the South Gippsland Conservation Society and local volunteers. This will include planting native vegetation to stabilise dunes and support the foreshore ecosystem, as well as maintaining the natural look and feel of the beach that we all value.
• Resilience Plan: In partnership with the Victorian State Government, Bunurong Land council and Parks Victoria, a Resilience Plan for the future of our coastline and community is under development

Be sure to keep a safe distance from unstable sand dunes and cliffs. Leave driftwood in place and follow safety signs. Stay on designated access tracks.