Inverloch dune reconstruction enters final phase

THE $5.3 million Inverloch dune reconstruction project has officially entered its final stage marking a major milestone in safeguarding the local coastline.

While sand replenishment works on the beach are rapidly winding down authorities are also managing the complex operational environment caused by the emergency road repairs on Bunurong Road.

Hall Contracting is currently wrapping up major earthworks at the far end of the project zone. Over the coming days, heavy machinery crews will work in reverse along the beach, carefully battering and tidying the newly established dune profile.

This meticulous shaping is part of the contractor's formal demobilisation process, ensuring the sand structure is stable and prepared for long-term environmental protection.

Beachgoers and local residents have been advised that the decommissioning of the extensive network of land pipelines will commence over the next week. Given the active presence of heavy vehicles and newly flagged-off safety hazards, authorities have urged the public to remain highly vigilant and respect all exclusion zones.

As beachside operations wind down Hall Contracting is collaborating with local subcontractors and Bass Coast Shire Council to plan the full rehabilitation of the primary lay-down site.

The staging area, currently positioned at the Lija Lookout Boat Ramp, will be restored to its original state once machinery is cleared. Further details regarding the final departure of the offshore dredge and booster pump are expected to be publicised within days.

The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA), alongside Hall Contracting, have expressed deep gratitude to the Inverloch community for their patience during these highly disruptive final construction stages.

The end of civil works will seamlessly transition into a community-led environmental effort. Bass Coast Shire Council is teaming up with the South Gippsland Conservation Society to spearhead extensive revegetation works across the newly shaped dunes.

Thousands of indigenous coastal plants will be put into the ground to secure the sand, build ecological resilience, and prevent future erosion.

Simultaneously, the Department of Transport has launched urgent emergency works to repair the severely compromised road shoulder on Bunurong Road. Comprehensive detours and on-site traffic management are actively guiding motorists around the closure. Commuters are strongly advised to plan ahead, allow significant extra travel time, and follow all directional signage to ensure the safety of both road crews and the general public.