Last weekend was perfect for a leisurely walk, with the scorching mid-30s heat finally easing to a comfortable 20-25 degrees.
We began our stroll at the Catani Archway on the St Kilda foreshore in Melbourne. Designed by Carlo Catani, the archway was part of an ambitious foreshore reclamation and beautification project between 1890 and 1916, shaping St Kilda into the vibrant coastal destination it is today.
The weather and water were a bit chilly, but that didn’t stop some people from taking a refreshing dip.
I love Early Morning Coffee by Gillie & Marc Schattner—a striking three-metre-tall sculpture of Dogman and Rabbitwoman enjoying a quiet morning coffee together.
Just a few steps away is another powerful monument by Gillie & Marc. It tells the poignant story of the Northern White Rhinos, whose extinction is imminent. I hope you can read the inscription clearly—it’s a reminder of the urgent need for conservation.
We continued our walk along the newly completed decking leading to the pier.
St Kilda Pier dates back to the mid-1800s when it was first built as a working jetty. The breakwater was later added for the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, providing a safe harbor for sailing events.
Along the way, we passed several panels featuring artwork that resembles Aboriginal art. However, without any labels, it’s hard to say for sure. It also appears to be a temporary covering, so I’m not sure if it’s a permanent fixture.
Following a $53 million redevelopment, the new St Kilda Pier reopened in December 2024. The upgraded space boasts a sleek curved walkway, tiered seating, enhanced amenities, and a larger community area near the historic kiosk.
This section is beautifully designed, creating an impressive walkway leading to the toilets.
Visitors can now enjoy improved views of St Kilda and the city skyline.
There’s now easier access to the Little Penguin viewing area. Do you recognize the little penguin?
It was a wonderfully relaxing day, simply watching the black swans and boats by the jetty.
As we left, we spotted an elderly couple, so sweet in their quiet companionship, and a child gazing up at the birds as they soared above.
And as we headed to the car park, we came across two large penguin sculptures, each with its own unique style of design.
I am linking this to Jo’s Monday Walk, to Jez’s Water Water Everywhere, to Natalie’s Photographing Public Art Challenge, and Johnbo’s Cellpic Sunday
What a lovely, colourful place for a stroll, Teresa. Something for everyone there. I love being by the water. Thanks so much!
I enjoy going by the water as long as the weather is just mild.
That’s a wonderful place to stroll, Teresa. I like all the artworks, the penguin, the boats and the beach. Thank you for your public art share.
Happy that you saw it Natalie. I was trying to make a comment and send a link but it doesn’t let me on your site plus some others. I don’t know why.
A great place to stroll and explore Teresa
Sure is. First time I have visited after the restoration.
That looks a lovely place for a stroll – I always enjoy a pier walk, you feel so close to the water! I love the penguins (both real and sculpted) and Early Morning Coffee too 🙂
Glad you liked my walk as well as some of my findings. I enjoyed it because it wasn’t very busy that day.
I love going to St Kilda when visiting Melbourne. Thanks for the memories ☺️
I don’t really go there often. Just wanted to see the recent development. Thanks for commenting
What a lovely place for a walk, I love the notice explaining that the little penguins are shy, that’s so sweet 😊
They usually come out at night. But this signage is for the baby ones so that is nice of them to do that.
I love the Gillie and Marc art. We even have one on our street!
There’s more here too. I love them👍🏼
What a delightful stroll Teresa. The new development looks good, I like all the artwork and the views.
Glad you liked it Jude.