Hobsons Bay has become the first Victorian council to install beach lockers for people to store their personal belongings.
The 60 lockers, next to Norfolk cafe on the Esplanade, will be available for hire seven days a week from 8am-7.30pm.
People can hire a locker by showing photo ID and buying a $5 waterproof wristband from the cafe.
It’s an initiative of the Hobsons Bay council, Victoria Police, Altona Village Traders Association and Altona Life Saving Club.
Mayor Sandra Wilson said providing the public beach lockers was a simple but important service.
“We want people to have a positive experience when they’re in our city, and if the lockers can provide convenience, security and peace of mind, that’s a great outcome,” she said.
Police Inspector Michelle Young said the lockers would help combat theft of valuables left on the beach or in cars. “Last summer, there were incidents of theft while people were swimming or away from their spots on the beach,” she said. “Victoria Police are confident that public use of the new beach lockers at Altona foreshore will contribute to safety of property while people are enjoying the beach.
“I would encourage people to use them rather than having to replace property through theft or damage.”
Altona Village Traders Association president Kim Walsh said the lockers were also raising awareness of the need for beachgoers to protect their belongings.
“We’re seeing some wonderful results already, including groups of children chipping in to share a locker and positive feedback from people who have previously lost their valuables on the beach,” Mr Walsh said.
