Coastlines are dynamic environments that are constantly changing as natural processes like waves, erosion and tidal currents shape and reshape landscapes. Council, DEECA, the community and researchers have actively monitored the Silverleaves area for many years. The Silverleaves coastline is one of a few erosion hotspots that are a priority for Bass Coast Shire Council.

• Council have replaced tonnes of sand on the beach, to be used for sacrificial purposes in future storm events to wash this sand away rather than eroding further into the dune
• In 2023 Council replaced tonnes of sand on the beach north of Sanders Road. As expected, further storm events washed much of this sand away rather than eroding further into the dune
• We monitor unstable and fallen vegetation and intervene as necessary to manage safety hazards. We move brushwood against the dune base to help protect from further erosion, and to remind community to keep a safe distance from unstable dunes
• Safety signage and fencing is installed in affected areas as needed, and community information is being developed so visitors and locals can easily access the beach and remain safe.
• In addition to on-site signage, you can find regular updates on local conditions here on Council’s website.
• Some beach access tracks may be closed from time to time, especially immediately after an erosion event. We will restore and reopen tracks as soon as it is safe to do so.

Bass Coast Shire Council completed emergency coastal erosion protection works at Silverleaves, Cowes, on behalf of the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) in May 2025. These essential works were delivered to protect the foreshore, beach, coastal vegetation and nearby infrastructure from ongoing erosion impacts.

Erosion at Silverleaves has intensified over the past decade, resulting in significant loss of sand and coastal vegetation. To address this, DEECA commissioned temporary erosion protection measures to stabilise the shoreline and reduce the risk of further deterioration.

The completed works included:

• Off-site preparation of rock bags, which were filled and transported to Silverleaves for installation.
• Construction of a stepped rock bag wall extending 150 metres east of the existing rock structure.
• Protection of the dune toe line to safeguard remaining sand dunes.
• No native vegetation removal, apart from minor trimming where required.
• Relocation of driftwood, lifting it from the beach back onto the dune system for natural retention.

In October 2025, DEECA released the Silverleaves Coastal Adaptation Plan, you can read more about it here: Planning for coastal adaptation pathways at Silverleaves | Engage Victoria

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. Report any urgent safety concerns (e.g. unstable or fallen trees) to: