The Mornington Peninsula continues to face the aftermath of last week’s devastating landslide in McCrae, which destroyed a luxury home, damaged two neighbouring properties, and forced the evacuation of a growing number of residences.

RPP FM has reported that local and state authorities have now expanded the exclusion zone, with 20 properties evacuated as assessments reveal ongoing ground movement. Local and state agencies, including the Mornington Peninsula Shire and South East Water, are working closely to investigate the cause of the collapse, amid long-standing concerns about underground water affecting the area’s stability.

Emergency response crews from the State Emergency Service (SES) maintained a strong presence over the weekend, conducting site monitoring and implementing further safety measures. The SES is expected to transfer management of the disaster site to the Mornington Peninsula Shire this week, marking a transition to a longer-term recovery phase.

Structural engineers and geotechnical experts warn that a permanent solution for stabilising the escarpment could take up to two years. As a result, approximately 60 homes remain at risk, leaving residents in a state of uncertainty.

This latest landslip follows years of resident complaints about water infiltration in the McCrae area, with references to a similar event in 2022. Legal debates over liability are ongoing, with potential action before the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).

Local authorities continue to stress the importance of public safety, urging residents to adhere to exclusion zones and follow updates from emergency services.

Further updates will be provided as more information comes to light.

Note: This article includes references and sources content from RPP FM, and has been repurposed with permission by STPL News.