Melbourne Shrine to Sea Masterplan Unveiled

The Victorian Government this week unveiled its masterplan to transform the boulevard connecting the Shrine of Remembrance to Port Phillip Bay in Melbourne.

The Shrine to Sea (S2S) Masterplan, now called Yannawatpanhanna, meaning “go to water” in the Boon Wurrung language of the Bunurong people, will involve the creation of a new green boulevard and park, linking Domain Gardens to Port Phillip Bay.

The Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation (BLCAC) played a crucial role in naming the boulevard and shaping its design. This project aimed to “reflect the importance of Aboriginal language and culture”, the Victorian Government said.

Key stakeholders include the Department of Environment, Energy, Climate Change, and the Arts (DEECA), City of Port Phillip, Department of Transport and Planning, and Parks Victoria.

The Victorian Government has invested $13 million to support planning and delivery. 

The boulevard will feature new interpretation and signs to enhance the visitor experience, provide historical context, and celebrate local stories and history, particularly Traditional Owner culture.

Potential improvements may include upgraded pathways, seating areas, interpretive signs, viewing platforms, and recreational spaces.

Improved safety and increased active transport options for pedestrians and cyclists are also stated priorities, all while considering motorists along Albert Road.

▲ The Shrine to Sea masterplan will link the Shrine of Remembrance to Port Phillip Bay.

The bi-directional shared path along Albert Road will be retained, but with upgraded crossings. Major upgrades to the Moray Street intersection will improve connection to the Moray Street bicycle corridor.

Improvements to the shared crossing at Kings Way will benefit pedestrians and bike riders accessing the newly completed Anzac Station. The intersection at Montague Street and Kerferd Road will remain closed to create additional open space and improve road safety.

Green features of the masterplan include planting native trees, improving biodiversity, creating shade, and incorporating climate-resilient plantings.

Kerferd Road Pier will be transformed into a more functional, welcoming and engaging space while preserving its heritage value. Community feedback highlighted the need for improved access to the historic site.

The pier’s forecourt will serve as an entry point, offering insights into the history of Port Phillip Bay and its traditional custodians, the Boon Wurrung and Wurundjeri peoples.

The revitalisation of the pier aims to connect visitors to the bay, provide a platform for storytelling and cultural appreciation, and allow enjoyment of the natural surroundings.

Now in the detailed design stage, the project will be delivered in stages by relevant land managers, including DEECA, City of Port Phillip, Department of Transport and Planning, and Parks Victoria.

This is the second major ‘green’ announcement for Melbourne, with the recently released designs for Laak Boorndap revealed this month.