Foreshore camping postponed until February 2021

Published on 05 November 2020

Mornington Peninsula Shire has taken the decision to postpone foreshore camping until February 2021.
 
The decision was taken after careful consideration of the State Government’s Coronavirus roadmap and to ensure the health and safety of all Victorians.
 
Mornington Peninsula Shire CEO John Baker said with restrictions still in place for the foreseeable future, we concluded this was the most prudent approach.
 
“Even as we hopefully move from Step 3 into the last step of the Roadmap and then Covid normal, social distancing, density quotients, group sizes and a range of other measures will still be required. It’s not feasible to have foreshore camping under many of these conditions.
 
“One of our major concerns is the transmission risk from people having to use the shared toilet and shower amenity blocks.
 
“This approach is consistent with the Chief Health Officer’s advice which has underpinned our decision”.
 
With high visitation numbers expected on the Peninsula over summer, areas usually occupied by campers can be used by the public for picnics and other outdoor activities. These spaces can also be used by beach-goers as overflow spaces to maintain social distancing requirements when beaches are particularly busy.
 
Mr Baker said while we are disappointed the camping season has to be postponed, it is a necessary step to keep visitors and our local community safe.
 
The Shire manages foreshore camping along the natural foreshore reserves in Rosebud, Rye and Sorrento.
 
The Shire will provide an update on the reopening of foreshore camping in January.