Council pledges stronger safety measures following tragic incident
Frankston City Council has issued a statement following the deaths of two men who were swept from Frankston Pier during extreme weather on Tuesday afternoon, 22 October.
Emergency services were called to the pier shortly before 4 pm after reports that two men had entered the water amid wind gusts exceeding 100 km/h. Despite extensive rescue efforts, both men were later found deceased.
The incident was first reported by STPL News — Two Men Found Deceased at Frankston Beach — following confirmation from Victoria Police.
Community in mourning
In a statement released on Tuesday evening, Frankston City Mayor Kris Bolam JP said the city was “profoundly saddened” by the tragedy.
“On behalf of the entire Frankston City community, I extend our deepest condolences to their families, friends and loved ones,” Mayor Bolam said.
“We share in your grief and stand with you during this heartbreaking time.”
The mayor described the incident as “a sharp reminder of the power of nature and the real risk posed by severe weather”, urging all residents, fishers and beachgoers to heed Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) warnings.
Extreme winds and dangerous conditions
The Bureau of Meteorology had issued a severe weather warning for Victoria’s south-eastern coast, forecasting damaging winds, rough seas and hazardous conditions across Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula between 3 pm and 9 pm.
Authorities warned of the potential for structural damage, power outages and dangerous surf conditions. The warning remains active as strong winds continue across coastal areas into Wednesday.
Mayor Bolam said the council would review safety signage, patrol coverage and access management along the foreshore and pier precincts.
“Over the upcoming summer season, we will be enhancing our patrols along the beach, pier and foreshore precincts, including additional lifeguard hours, increased signage around hazardous conditions and clear communication when access should be restricted,” he said.
Investigation and response
Emergency services, including Victoria Police, Ambulance Victoria and the State Emergency Service, responded to the incident. Police are preparing a report for the Coroner.
Frankston City Council said it would continue to monitor conditions and coordinate with emergency services to support those affected.
“At this time, I ask everyone to stay safe, remain vigilant, and if in doubt, stay off the water and away from exposed coastal structures until conditions improve,” Mayor Bolam said.
The incident has reignited local discussion about public safety during extreme weather and whether access to piers and jetties should be temporarily restricted when conditions become hazardous.
Weather warnings continue
The Bureau of Meteorology has advised that high winds and storm activity are expected to persist through Wednesday across Melbourne’s south-east, including Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula.
Residents are encouraged to monitor updates via the VicEmergency app or visit www.bom.gov.au for the latest alerts.
