Frankston Beach: Two men drown in Melbourne as wild winds wreak havoc across Victoria

Two men have tragically drowned in a rough swell after being swept off a pier and into the sea during a powerful weather system that caused widespread destruction in Victoria.

Emergency services were called to Frankston Beach on Wednesday afternoon after reports that two men were struggling in the water.

The men had been on Frankston Pier when they were knocked into the sea by a strong gust of wind.

A search of the water was conducted, with the air wing locating the pair, unresponsive in the water, just after 5pm.

Both men were winched back to shore but were unable to be revived.

The pair are yet to be formally identified.

Frankston Mayor Kris Bolam issued a statement on Wednesday night, describing the incident as a “sharp reminder of the power of nature and the real risk posed by severe weather”.

“On behalf of the entire Frankston City community, I extend our deepest condolences to their families, friends and loved ones. We share in your grief and stand with you during this heartbreaking time,” he said.

“The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) and other authorities have issued warnings of strong gusts, rough seas and dangerous conditions along our coast and foreshore this week.

“We urge everyone in our community – residents, visitors, fishers, walkers and beach-goers – to heed these warnings. If you’re heading outdoors, please check the latest BoM weather alert at www.bom.gov.au or call 1300 659 210.”

Mr Bolam said the council would respond to the tragedy by enhancing patrols along the beach, pier and foreshore precincts.

Measures include extending lifeguard hours, installing more signage about hazardous conditions and improving communication around access restrictions.

“Our aim is always to keep people safe, especially when conditions change rapidly,” he added.

“We will continue to monitor the situation closely, coordinate with emergency services and ensure our community is supported. At this time, I ask everyone to stay safe, remain vigilant, and if in doubt, stay off the water and away from exposed coastal structures until conditions improve.”

Victoria was battered by extreme weather on Wednesday, with emergency crews working through the night as dangerous winds brought down trees across multiple suburbs.

More than 2000 homes are without power as authorities scramble to fix fallen and damaged powerlines.

Residents are being urged to avoid fallen lines and contact emergency services instead.

VIC SES: 132 500