Forrest Caves stairway and beach access upgrades

Access to Forrest Caves Beach will be restricted as works are undertaken to upgrade the main beach access stairways.
The stairway structure was identified for upgrades after strengthening works to eroded staircase footings in 2022 and in a subsequent infrastructure audit.
The works, which will be completed by Phillip Island Nature Parks and local contractors in two stages, will involve a redevelopment of the north and south stairways to address structural slumping and deteriorating materials and fixings.
In addition, the stairs and landings will be reconfigured to meet compliance standards.
The main staircase to Forrest Caves beach will be closed during the works and access to the shore redirected via the Bruce Avenue track.
The first stage is scheduled to start in late October and will conclude in mid-December before the peak summer holiday period. Once complete, beach access will be reopened. The second stage will be undertaken next year, with exact dates still being finalised.
Phillip Island Nature Parks General Manager Infrastructure and Planning, Jarvis Weston, said Forrest Caves beach had seen a significant increase in recent visitation and the works were necessary to ensure the safety of beachgoers.
“The planned reconfiguration of stairs and landings upon the existing alignment will provide a significant improvement to access and egress to Forrest Caves beach so the local community and visitors can continue to enjoy this beautiful location,” Mr Weston said.
“The impact on vegetation and cultural heritage will be minimised as the upgrades will occur on the existing structure alignment.
“We envisage increased patronage of the Bruce Avenue access and parking may be limited, so we ask beachgoers to plan ahead and please be patient.
“We will continually assess safety around the area and will open access if it is safe to do so on weekends and public holidays.”
Download the Surf Life Saving Beachsafe app and access important information available on the Life Saving Victoria website and throughout the Visitor Information Centres.
Warning, swimming is not advised at Forrest Caves or Forrest Caves (Bruce Ave), visit penguins.org.au/visit/safety for more information.
Visit penguins.org.au/about/our-community/projects-and-maintenance/ for the latest project updates.