- Published:
- Wednesday 8 July 2015
Beachgoers at Campbells Cove in one of Melbourne’s fastest-growing areas will have to cover up from September 1, after the Minister for Planning, Richard Wynne revoked the beach's official "clothing optional" status following talks with locals.
The beach has been clothing optional since 1986, but recent development has drawn many families to nearby Point Cook and more people are visiting the beach and its boatsheds.
In July last year, Wyndham City councillors voted unanimously in favour of revoking clothing-optional status. The council will be responsible for enforcing the new rule.
Campbells Cove beach will be treated the same as any other public place and any behaviour that breaks the law may be enforced by council or the police.
The council is also moving forward with plans to enhance the beach area for general use.
There are three other clothing optional beaches in Victoria which remain open – Sunnyside North Beach at Mount Eliza, Point Impossible Beach and Southside Beach near Torquay.
In the Wyndham area, there are other nude swimming options available at some private and commercial swimming centres which provide appropriate seclusion.
Mr Wynne said his decision to revoke the “clothing optional” status under the Nudity (Prescribed Areas) Act 1983 reflected the local community’s concerns and would ensure more residents could enjoy their local beach.
Quotes Attributable to Minister for Planning, Richard Wynne
“When declared a nude beach in 1986, Campbells Cove offered a privacy to bathers which simply isn’t available any more, with more families moving to the area.”
“The Point Cook area is thriving; Wyndham is one of the fastest growing municipalities in the country. Our laws need to keep pace with population growth.”