The eastern outfall that returns sand dredged from inner channels back to the sea is located approximately 800m to the east of the entrance.

The outfall suffered partial structural failure some time ago due to sea and storm impacts. In the meantime Gippsland Ports has been working up all replacement components needed to complete the repair of the outfall and detailed planning with contractors who will perform the maintenance work.

The current very good weather we are having will allow the maintenance work to proceed in early May.

Most of the work will be performed from the water, but part of the work involves reattaching pipework that is buried below the beach surface.

This may temporarily interrupt public use of the beach in that location as an excavator will be used to re-bury the pipe in the beach. Access will be controlled around the work site to allow continued pedestrian access along the beach during the work.  The area where the excavator is operating will be demarcated and a “spotter” will guide safe pedestrian access around the work area.

Gippsland Ports apologises for any inconvenience that may be caused during these essential maintenance works.

Please direct any questions regarding the ocean outfall maintenance work to Gippsland Ports Bairnsdale office on ph. 51 500 500.

For more information on the local Ports and waterways and Gippsland Ports sand management program, please visit our website www.gippslandports.vic.gov.au