St Kilda beach is out, another Beach is in.
The City of Port Philip in Melbourne's south says the iconic beachfront will be renamed after Melbourne City and Socceroos goalkeeper Patrick Beach for the remainder of the national squad's FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign.
It comes after the team's 0-0 draw against Paraguay secured their spot in the knockout rounds of this year's tournament.
At 22 years old, the goalkeeper made a surprise World Cup debut for the Socceroos against Türkiye and has remained in goal for all of the side's 2026 World Cup games.
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He saved two shots on target in the Socceroos' clash against Paraguay and is one of seven players on the squad with Melbourne City connections.
Melbourne City FC CEO Brad Rowse said his side was "incredibly proud" of the young player.
"You spend years developing players and hope they make a World Cup squad," Rowse said.
"Having a beach renamed after one of them wasn't something we'd planned for, but we're happy to take it."
The council's town hall will also be illuminated in green and gold on Friday night, following the team's third-ever entry into the knockout round.
City of Port Phillip mayor Alex Makin said his council wanted to celebrate the Socceroos' win and the strong connection between Melbourne and the national squad.
"This is about getting behind the Socceroos and sharing in the excitement of the World Cup at home," he said in a statement.
"Renaming St Kilda Beach is a uniquely local way to celebrate the team and embrace the global energy right here in Port Phillip.”
The City of Port Philip said plans for a mural dedicated to the young player were "underway".
Having made it through to the Round of 32, Australia will next face the second-placed Group G team on 4 July in Arlington, Texas.
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