A MAJOR safety upgrade at a dangerous intersection in Bittern has been completed, with the Coolart Rd and Myers Rd crossing now reopened to traffic following the installation of a new roundabout.
The intersection, which previously operated as a four way crossing, had a history of serious crashes. Between July 2015 and July 2020, five casualty crashes were recorded at the site, including a fatal collision involving two people. All of the crashes occurred in clear, dry conditions.
The outdated layout has now been replaced with a roundabout designed to slow traffic and reduce conflict points. The upgrade also includes new guardrails to lessen the severity of crashes, raised safety platforms and improved lighting to enhance visibility for drivers.
The $10.6m project was jointly funded by the federal and Victorian governments under the road safety program, with each contributing $5.3m.
Around 5900 vehicles travel through the intersection each day, making it a key route for local residents, freight operators and visitors to the area.
The completed roundabout complements other safety improvements delivered by Mornington Peninsula Shire at nearby intersections along Coolart Rd.
“This was a dangerous intersection with a tragic history – and we’ve fixed it,” regional development, local government and territories Federal Minister Kristy McBain said.
“By partnering with the Victorian government, we’re delivering safer roads that protect local families, freight operators and visitors right across the Mornington Peninsula.”
Roads and Road Safety Victorian Minister Melissa Horne said, “Five casualty crashes, including a fatal collision, is five too many – that’s why we got on with making this intersection safer”.
“Roundabouts save lives. They slow traffic, cut the risk of serious crashes and mean families can get where they’re going safely.”
Hastings MP Paul Mercurio highlighted “how badly” the intersection needed fixing among locals.
“This upgrade means parents, tradies and freight drivers can move through Bittern more safely and more smoothly every single day,” he said.
First published in the Southern Peninsula News – 11 March 2026
