Docklands Harbour Esplanade will come alight with a new installation referred to as the “Echo” of Central Pier, signalling the first of a range of heritage interpretation initiatives being delivered along the waterfront and surrounds.
The striking visual installation features approximately 145 illuminated marine buoys programmed to flash individually on a slow rhythm, laid out in a grid formation as a visual echo tracing where the pier once stood.
Niall Cunningham, Development Victoria’s Executive General Manager Precincts, said Echo represents the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Docklands, bringing the waterfront to life and creating a vibrant destination for locals and visitors alike.
“The removal of Central Pier has created a unique opportunity to honour its history and reimagine the waterfront, marking an important milestone in its revitalisation,” said Niall.
Commissioned by Development Victoria and supported by Heritage Victoria, Parks Victoria and the City of Melbourne, ‘Echo’ was designed by heritage interpretation graphic designers, LookEar and Mono Design to honour and reflect the history of Central Pier and Victoria Dock.
The use of the simple maritime items commonly seen in port operations will create a dynamic visual experience, especially at night, providing a clear overview of the pier’s former scale and paying homage to its past.
Niall Cunningham
Executive General Manager Precincts
The installation is guided by the Docklands Vision and Place Principles and the Central Pier Heritage Interpretation Strategy, ensuring the installation respects the area’s history while creating a vibrant new destination.
We’ve heard the community is already enjoying the open harbour space and we continue to work closely with Heritage Victoria, the City of Melbourne, the community and other key stakeholders to identify opportunities for the revitalisation of Harbour Esplanade to create a vibrant waterfront destination.
Echo is part of a string of activations along the waterfront including 'Pave and Play' floor games between Sunset Point and Yanonung Quay and the replanting of the award-winning 'We the Wild' garden at Yanonung Quay, with more in the works.
More activations are planned in the coming months to continue bringing the waterfront to life.
The installation will run for around six months from the end of April 2026.
To learn more about the precinct visit the Docklands project page.
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View allUpdated on 04 May 2026