Mornington Peninsula Shire, in conjunction with Victoria Police, is asking young people not to travel to the Peninsula for Schoolies Week this year.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, there will be no Schoolies Safe Space on the Rye foreshore.
The decision brings the Mornington Peninsula in line with other popular Schoolies destinations such as Byron Bay and the Gold Coast.
Shire CEO John Baker said: “With social distancing rules and limits on gatherings likely to continue into next year, Schoolies gatherings won’t be possible.”
“My message to school-leavers and their families is this: our beaches will still be here when this pandemic is over, so we are asking you to postpone your Schoolies celebrations for now.
“We urge all school leavers to stay safe this summer and look for creative ways to engage in Schoolies activities that will limit the risk of transmitting the virus.
“It’s just not worth the risk of travelling down here. Look at options in your local area, stay safe and celebrate at home.”
Inspector Bruce Kitchen, Mornington Peninsula Local Area Commander said “Victoria Police will be proactively policing the Peninsula and anyone found breaching the Chief Health Officer’s directions will be prosecuted.”
