UPDATE: Frankston Beach is experiencing significant damage from unauthorized construction activities as enforcement actions against an illegal seawall stall, drawing urgent attention from local authorities. An excavator was seen tearing up rocks along the Port Phillip Bay shoreline just south of Olivers Hill on Sunday, raising alarms about the ongoing impact on this public space.
The Department of Environment, Energy, and Climate Action (DEECA) confirmed to The Age on Tuesday that no permissions have been granted for any works on this stretch of Crown land. “We have been on site to gather evidence,” a DEECA spokesperson stated, indicating that the situation is under investigation.
Eyewitness reports indicated an excavator was operating on a vacant seaside block nearby, but attempts to identify the responsible party have been unsuccessful. These unauthorized works are occurring less than 100 meters from a controversial seawall built by multimillionaire homeowner Gene Neill earlier this year. Neill previously admitted to constructing the seawall on public land without permission to protect his property from erosion, a move that sparked widespread criticism.
While there is currently no evidence linking Neill to the recent excavator activity, DEECA is treating this matter separately. When contacted about the incident on Sunday, Neill declined to comment, stating he has since relocated.
The continued unauthorized works threaten not only the integrity of Frankston Beach but also the ecological balance of the surrounding area. Local residents and environmental advocates are voicing their concerns about the negative impact these illegal activities are having on public spaces and marine environments.
As authorities ramp up their efforts to address these issues, residents are urged to report any further unauthorized construction to ensure the protection of Frankston Beach. The urgency of the situation highlights the need for immediate action to uphold environmental regulations and safeguard public land.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops and authorities investigate the full extent of damage to Frankston Beach.
