Beach conditions across Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula look generally favourable this weekend, with the Sweetwater Creek and Frankston Beach sewage spill incident now reported as resolved, and no recent bluebottle jellyfish reports received.
A reminder that recent white shark sightings were reported off Portsea Beach in late December, including one report logged at about 50 metres offshore.
Alerts and safety notices
Water quality: Sweetwater Creek and Frankston Beach
- Update: South East Water has advised that water quality test results confirmed it was safe to resume normal activities, including swimming at Frankston Beach and Sweetwater Creek.
- Practical reminder: Water quality can change quickly near stormwater drains and creek outlets, particularly after rain. For day-to-day checks, EPA Victoria’s Beach Report guidance and forecasts remain the most practical reference.
Shark sightings: Portsea area (reminder)
Two recent public reports were logged via Dorsal Watch in late December:
- Monday 29 December 2025: A three-metre white shark reported about 50 metres offshore while fishing off Portsea.
- Sunday 28 December 2025: A 2.5-metre white shark reported about 150 metres offshore near Portsea Beach.
Practical advice: If you see a shark or receive credible advice of a nearby sighting, leave the water calmly, avoid swimming alone, and follow directions from lifesavers and emergency services.
Marine stingers: Bluebottles and jellyfish
- Current note: No recent reports have been received regarding bluebottle jellyfish sightings.
- What to do: Stay alert on the sand and in the water, particularly after onshore winds. If you spot bluebottles, take a photo (if safe) and report the location and time to STPL News.
Weather and UV outlook (BOM)
Frankston (Frankston South, BOM)
Saturday 3 January: Partly cloudy, 32°C, slight chance of a shower, chance of an afternoon or evening thunderstorm. UV predicted to reach 11 (Extreme).
Sunday 4 January: Cloudy, 24°C, slight chance of a shower, chance of a thunderstorm. UV predicted to reach 10 (Very High).
Mornington Peninsula (Red Hill, BOM)
Saturday 3 January: Partly cloudy, 31°C, slight chance of a shower, chance of an afternoon or early evening thunderstorm. UV predicted to reach 11 (Extreme).
Sunday 4 January: Cloudy, 23°C, slight chance of a shower, chance of a morning thunderstorm. UV predicted to reach 10 (Very High).
Surf and water hazards to keep in mind
- Thunderstorms can shift winds quickly and change conditions on the water.
- Afternoon sea breezes can add chop, especially for weaker swimmers, inflatables and paddle craft.
- Open-coast beaches can have strong currents and rips even when it looks calm.
Patrols and beach access
Patrol availability varies by beach and day. If you are travelling, check BeachSafe before you leave and aim to swim between the flags.
Before you go checklist
- Check conditions on arrival, including signage near creek outlets and stormwater drains
- Choose a patrolled beach and swim between the flags
- Supervise children at all times and keep non-swimmers within arm’s reach
- If storms build, get out early and move off the sand
- For Extreme or Very High UV days, plan shade, hats, water, and reapply sunscreen regularly
Sources and transparency
This report references:
- Bureau of Meteorology forecasts and UV guidance for Frankston South and Red Hill
- South East Water update indicating water quality testing was clear for resuming normal activities
- EPA Victoria Beach Report guidance on water quality and forecasting
- Public shark sighting reports previously covered by STPL News
Conditions can change rapidly. If you notice a hazard, include the beach name, time, and what you observed and send it through to STPL News.
