Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt has spoken out in support of saving the inner section of the historic Flinders Pier, which has been earmarked by the Victorian Government for demolition. Minister Hunt was speaking after the launch of a Facebook video post by his nominated successor, Zoe McKenzie who has expressed her support to Save Flinders Pier. The Minister said the pier must be saved.

Minister Hunt said: “I strongly support this campaign to Save Flinders Pier”.

“Perhaps even more importantly, my successor as the Liberal Candidate for Flinders, Zoe McKenzie, is incredibly passionate about saving Flinders Pier.”

“I have made representations to the Minister for Ports and Freight, the Hon Melissa Horne MP, to make her aware of the concerns held by many in our community.”

“It is essential that any historical and environmental impacts are meticulously considered”

Flinders Pier was first built in 1864 and re-aligned 50 years ago. In 2021, leaked documents revealed plans by Parks Victoria to demolish the first 180m. The pier attracts nearly 500,000 visitors per year and contributes $8m $10m to communities across the Mornington Peninsula while also supporting a vibrant fishing and aquaculture industry.

A small museum at the pier, run by volunteers, celebrates the pier’s unique contribution to the pier’s history. To pull down the very thing that the museum is dedicated to, makes no sense.

The heritage review being conducted by Heritage Victoria is expected to be completed by June of this year.