MT ELIZA environmental group, the South Eastern Centre for Sustainability, will host a coastal forum at the Mount Eliza Community Hall on 25 July with all residents invited. Keynote speakers will be Professor Daniel Ierodiaconou, and Dr Rebecca Zitoun, acclaimed scientists and academics whose research and extensive knowledge of the coastal/maritime/human interface will provide comprehensive insights into how thalassology and oceanography are relevant to Australian waters, inclusive of Port Phillip Bay and the Mornington Peninsula.
“These scientists/academics are held in high esteem internationally and are particularly recognised for their cutting-edge research and how it applies to our current understanding of our broader environment,” South Eastern Centre for Sustainability president Steve Karakitsos said.
Also speaking is environmental campaigner Josie Jones OAM, who will discuss local citizen science, litter origins, cycles and the benefits of hand cleaning compared to mechanical raking; as well as Mornington MP Chris Crewther who will present alongside Coastal Erosion Working Group member Rick Macdonald, about local coastal erosion issues and advocacy.
Crewther has set up the apolitical Coastal Erosion Working Group and is passionate about advocating and working with locals to specifically address erosion issues at various beaches, paths and coastal areas, inclusive of but not limited to Shire Hall Beach, Beleura Cliff Path, Birdrock Beach steps, Mt Martha North beach, and more. Macdonald will outline the importance of a stable coastline, the benefits of maintaining a good beach system as an energy absorber and recreational asset while pointing to synergies of the beach system with introduced coastal facilities and hinterland development.
An opportunity to interact with all speakers via a Q & A forum will follow after the presentations. The event will run from 6pm-9pm.
First published in the Mornington News – 22 July 2025
