Frankston City Council Mayor, Kris Bolam, has acknowledged the drowning of two men who were swept from the Frankston Pier during extreme wind conditions yesterday, saying safety efforts would be ramped up in the wake of the tragedy.
Emergency services were called Frankston Beach yesterday afternoon following reports two men were in distress off-shore. The Victorian Police Air Wing was called in to search for the pair, who were found unresponsive just after 5pm.Â
The men, who are yet to be formally identified, were winched back to shore but could not be revived.
“It is with profound sadness that I acknowledge two people who have tragically lost their lives on Wednesday after being swept from the Frankston Pier during extreme wind conditions. On behalf of the entire Frankston City community, I extend our deepest condolences to their families, friends and loved ones,” said Mayor Bolam.
“We share in your grief and stand with you during this heartbreaking time. This devastating event is a sharp reminder of the power of nature and the real risk posed by severe weather. The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) and other authorities have issued warnings of strong gusts, rough seas and dangerous conditions along our coast and foreshore this week.
“We urge everyone in our community – residents, visitors, fishers, walkers and beach-goers – to heed these warnings. If you’re heading outdoors, please check the latest BoM weather alert at www.bom.gov.au or call 1300 659 210.”
Mayor Bolam said the Council was committed to beach and foreshore safety, saying additional lifeguard honours and increased signage would be rolled out in the wake of yesterday’s tragedy.
“Our aim is always to keep people safe, especially when conditions change rapidly,” he said.
“Our thoughts remain with everyone impacted by [Wednesday’s] event. We will continue to monitor the situation closely, coordinate with emergency services and ensure our community is supported. 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.”
