MT ELIZA — A push to establish a dedicated marine sanctuary along the Mt Eliza coastline is gaining momentum, with Mornington Peninsula Shire councillor Cr Stephen Batty throwing his support behind the proposal.
The proposed sanctuary would stretch from Daveys Bay to Moondah Beach and aims to protect a stretch of unique reef and marine habitats from increasing environmental pressure.
The sanctuary would prohibit many popular activities, including all commercial and recreational fishing in the area and would prohibit boats from anchoring. Swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving and kayaking would still be allowed.
Speaking to STPL News, Cr Batty said the idea was still in its early days, but community consultation and engagement with authorities would be key to progressing the plan.
“It’s in its infancy stages at the moment,” he said. “but we will be consulting with the community and all of the relevant authorities over the next 6 to 12 months to make the initial enquiries, ascertain viability, and determine likely implementation.”
Cr Batty said the sanctuary could deliver both environmental and recreational benefits.
“It would help preserve our local coastal area and enhance local opportunities for the snorkelling community,” he said.
“I absolutely support the initiative.”
The sanctuary proposal seeks to offer greater protections for a sensitive marine ecosystem already popular with snorkellers, divers and local schools. The area is known for its diverse sponge gardens, rocky reef structures and seagrass meadows—home to a variety of marine life, including rays, nudibranchs, octopuses and weedy sea dragons.
A report by the Herald Sun this week highlighted growing calls for formal protection of the area amid rising threats from coastal development, mooring damage and water pollution. Conservationists and locals alike are urging authorities to ensure the area is safeguarded for future generations.
Mt Eliza Marine Advocacy Inc: Driving Local Action
The advocacy effort is being led by the newly formed Mt Eliza Marine Advocacy Inc, an incorporated community group. The group includes a cross-section of local professionals and community members with expertise in environmental, scientific and recreational fields.
- Chris Dymond, vice-chair, is a diver with more than 45 years’ experience. He has spoken publicly about reef decline and ecological degradation along the Mt Eliza coast, drawing comparisons to the more protected Ricketts Point marine sanctuary.
- Gerald Whittle, economist, serves as chair of the organisation.
- Leigh Lawrence, a geologist, contributes environmental knowledge to the group’s assessments.
- Madalyn Cooper, marine biologist, adds scientific expertise on marine habitats and biodiversity.
- Ross McDonald, sports director at the Ranelagh Club, has expressed support for the sanctuary concept and its potential to boost fish stocks in surrounding waters.
While no formal proposal has yet been submitted to the Victorian Government, Mt Eliza Marine Advocacy Inc has launched a public petition and is working to engage local stakeholders. Cr Batty confirmed that the next step would involve assembling a broad cross-section of community voices to help shape a shared vision for the sanctuary.
