Colac Otway Shire Council is making progress on plans to reinstate a historic navigational pillar beacon at Marengo.
Council is working with the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority to return the beacon pillar to its former location on the foreshore.
The proposal is currently awaiting consent from the Marine and Coastal Authority (MACA).
GORCAPA made an application on behalf of Council to the Marine & Coastal Authority in mid-March 2025, and the assessment is expected to take up to 60 working days.
GORCAPA has already provided approval for the reinstatement. The Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation have been consulted on the reinstatement proposal and provided no objection.
In the coming weeks, Council will seek quotes from local contractors who have expertise in this field, to reinstate the pillar. Works will commence on site only after MACA consents.
The former Marengo beacon provided navigational aid to vessels at sea. The pillar was removed in the summer of 2019-20 because the structure was decaying and the beacon had been superseded by modern navigational aids.
Apollo Bay and Marengo community members expressed support to reinstate the structure for historical purposes.
Council intends to reinstate the supporting pillar, using original timber where possible, but the beacon on top is not being reinstalled due to maritime requirements.
General Manager of Infrastructure and Environment Doug McNeill said the project was in response to numerous requests from the Apollo Bay and Marengo community to have this pillar reinstated.
"The pillar serves as a reminder of local history and is a point of reference along the walking track," Mr McNeill said.
"It has been an extended process to reinstate the beacon pillar but we're pleased with the progress and we are very close to delivering the project," he said.
"Council will provide an update once all approvals are in place and we have arrangements in place to execute the work."
