The Victorian Government has unveiled the final design for the long-awaited St Leonards Pier rebuild, giving locals and visitors a clearer picture of what will replace the ageing coastal landmark on the Bellarine Peninsula.
The redesigned pier leans into accessibility, heritage preservation and a stronger connection to Port Phillip Bay—with features aimed at everyone from fishers to families and casual strollers.
What’s New At St Leonards Pier
The updated plans introduce wheelchair-accessible fishing platforms, sweeping curved seating designed to frame bay views, and a low landing that makes it easier (and safer) for boaters, snorkellers and divers to access the water.
It’s a noticeable shift toward a more inclusive, multi-use space—something the government says was shaped heavily by community feedback.
Ports and Freight Minister Melissa Horne said the final design reflects a balance between past and present.
“We listened closely to the community to shape a design that protects the pier’s heritage while creating a contemporary space for people to gather, fish and connect with the bay,” she said.
Designers have carefully positioned the pier’s footprint to avoid disturbing nearby historic shipwrecks and archaeological sites—a nod to the area’s layered maritime history dating back to the 1860s. They will also install interpretive signage to highlight both the region’s seafaring past and its marine ecosystems.
Fresh Design at St Leonards
Beyond function, the design brings a visual refresh. A wave-inspired balustrade will run the length of the structure, while designers will create an expanded deck near the popular Sirens Kiosk, turning it into a new social hub with additional seating and space to linger.
There’s also an environmental angle woven in. Sections of the old pier will be repurposed into coral-shaped structures to create new underwater habitats—a small but meaningful step toward supporting local marine life.
The redevelopment comes as the current pier, last rebuilt in 1957, reaches the end of its usable life. The Victorian Government secured funding for the project in the 2023–24 State Budget as part of a broader $46 million investment in piers and jetties across the state—assets that contribute more than $900 million annually to local and regional economies.
With designs now finalised, the project is moving into its next phase. A tender for a lead contractor is currently open, marking a key step toward construction. Once appointed, the contractor will confirm timelines, including when crews will remove the existing pier and begin work on the new structure.
For now, locals will have to sit tight—but the vision is clear: a future-proofed pier that blends history, accessibility and coastal charm in one of the Bellarine’s most well-loved seaside spots.