Independent Assessments Confirm Structural Decline of Lorne Co-op

The Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority (GORCAPA) is working with the community to explore options to honour the legacy of the Lorne Fishing Cooperative building at Point Grey.  

GORCAPA today released the findings of two independent technical assessments, which found the building has reached the end of its useful life. 

The building has undergone several engineering and risk assessments as part of the evidence-based planning process for the future of the Point Grey Redevelopment.  

The reports provide a thorough technical appraisal of the building’s current state which is unsafe for future use. 

Key findings have identified significant safety, compliance, and structural issues in the building, which was originally constructed in 1949 and has been altered over the decades through numerous extensions. These issues include: 

• Severe corrosion affecting key structural elements 

• Structural compromises such as roof sagging, water damage, and beam deterioration 

• Widespread asbestos and outdated pitch-based switchboards 

• Non-compliance with current Australian Standards, including concrete slab deficiencies 

• Lack of disability access. 

The structure is also located within the coastal erosion zone, so further funding toward remediation works is not advised or available. 

While the Co-Op building is not subject to a heritage overlay, GORCAPA is committed to preserving Lorne’s rich fishing and timber history. As part of the redevelopment, we will work with the community to explore how the original building materials and artefacts can be incorporated into the future design of Point Grey. 

As part of this transition, current permit arrangements within the Co-Op building will conclude and GORCAPA will formally assume occupancy of the cooperative site on 31 May to commence early works in preparation for demolition.  

These will include the safe removal of asbestos and the careful recovery of historical materials. Temporary fencing and security monitoring will be in place to ensure public safety during this period. 

As the project enters its next phase, the draft Urban Design Framework will be released later this month for broad community engagement.  

The feedback provided by community will be important in finalising the UDF, which will guide the future of the redevelopment. 

For further information, visit the Point Grey Redevelopment Have Your Say web page. 

Quotes attribute to Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Interim CEO Christine Ferguson 

“The Co-Op building has long been part of Lorne’s backdrop for generations, and while it’s never easy to say goodbye to something so familiar the expert assessments are clear — the building is no longer safe or fit for purpose. 

We’re taking a thoughtful, respectful approach to demolition, ensuring that the site’s history is honoured and preserved wherever possible. 

We recognise and understand the deep connection many have to this place, and we are committed to working alongside the community as we shape a future that honours Lorne’s past and meets the needs of future generations.”