We have received the following update from the City of Port Phillip on this issue:
"The full chain link fencing has now been erected around the boat landing and will remain in place until repairs are undertaken. We are working with a contractor at the moment to obtain a quote and timeline of availability to undertake the works and we will be trying to complete these as quick as possible so we can safely reopen the boat landing.
"Council has been working with the operators of the St Kilda ferry service to identify alternate arrangements so that they can recommence their service from Port Melbourne as planned this weekend. We have agreed that they can land against the lower Eastern Boardwalk promenade (next to Mr Hobsons restaurant) in the interim. This will require them to have their gangplank across the lower boardwalk during their sailings which will limit access to a small section of the lower boardwalk. The upper boardwalk and pedestrian path on the carpark side of the restaurants will remain accessible. Council have arranged bollards and tape to go around the gangplank whilst it is across the boardwalk which the ferry operator will be responsible for putting out. The gangplank will be stored away as usual after their last sailing each day reinstating full access. The ferry will be sailing this Saturday and Sunday (4th and 5th December) and then each Friday/Saturday/Sunday thereafter. This is a temporary arrangement and the ferry will move back to using the boat landing once repairs have been made. The tenants in the restaurants have been informed of this arrangement."