By Matt Nielsen – Seaholme resident and community activist
Point Cook Marine Sanctuary
This location is one of several Port Philip Bay marine sanctuaries making it a preferable location due to more abundant marine life than what you might see at a typical beach.
Offshore is shallow and sandy, with a basalt reef that starts at the far end towards the city. The lack of a prominent reef makes this location a bit mundane, however it is a great spot for Fiddler Rays and said to be a breeding ground for them.
Favourable conditions would be low wind and low waves with winds blowing from inland.
Accessible via the Point Cook Coastal Park which is managed by Parks Victoria so access is restricted by the Park’s opening hours.
The park has basic facilities such as toilets, BBQ, kid’s playground, etc. It has a very remote coastal scrub bushland feel while still being on the urban growth boundary.
Altona Beach
Snorkelling at Altona beach is best on the city side of the Altona Pier where there is a bluestone reef that extends to the Seaholme Jetty.
This location is very popular for collecting shellfish, consequently it can be a bit barren. However, it is a good place for beginners with parking close by, a big beach, and shallow water.
The Altona Pier has recently been redeveloped which has led to a reduction of sealife, unlike the many other historic Port Phillip piers.
Favourable conditions would be low wind and low waves with winds blowing from inland.
Best access to the water is from Altona Beach or Fleming Pool along the Esplanade. Of course parking is challenging on warm days due to the area’s growing popularity.
Jawbone Marine Sanctuary
This is another Port Philip Bay marine sanctuary making it an excellent spot with a good array of aquatic creatures. A great place to spot Southern Fiddler Rays, Southern Eagle Rays, Port Jackson Sharks, Globefish, sponges, anemones, sea urchins, and many more beautiful creatures of the sea.
Suggested parking would be along Bayview St, Williamstown near the Esplanade, then walking in through Bayview Reserve along the Bay Trail. Access to the water takes a little bit of rock hopping through some bluestone boulders on the edge of the water. Aim to get into the sandy cove flanked by two bluestone peninsulas.
The beach is narrow at low tide or non-existent at high tide so be prepared to be set back from the water a bit when setting up your base to leave items while snorkelling.
Favourable conditions would be low wind and low waves with winds blowing from inland. Tides will make it a little harder to get out over the shallow seagrass beds so best to try to find the sandy channels to avoid walking through the beds as they are sensitive to impact.
Safety
When engaging in any water sports ensure you always use the buddy system, check weather and water conditions beforehand, wear proper exposure protection.
Ensure you know your abilities and limits, stay within them, make sure your gear fits well, and never touch marine life.
For further support or training reach out to your local dive shop.
