Sunshine Coast beaches in good condition in spite of wet weather

Sunshine Coast beaches remain in good condition despite significant rainfall and large swells over recent weeks.

Environment Portfolio Councillor, Jenny McKay, said the region’s beaches and dune system provided nesting habitat for turtles.

“Initial assessments suggest that while there has been some localised erosion and loss of sand following the weather events of the last week, on the whole, our beaches are holding up quite well,” Cr McKay said.

“The resilience of our beaches can be attributed to a range of programs council has delivered over many years, including the ongoing investment in beach renourishment works and the partnerships we have developed with our community of volunteers to enhance and protect the structure of our dune systems.”

Recent surveys found 82,000 m3 of sand moved from the coast’s beaches into the near shore zone following the weather events of late last year, and it is expected that further surveys to be conducted next month will reveal similar sand movements as a result of recent increased swell conditions and king tides.

Typically as sand moves from the beach into the near shore zone during weather events it then returns to the beach during quieter swell conditions.

While the beaches will naturally start to recover as conditions ease, a number of sandbags at the Maroochy River mouth will be repaired as part of ongoing maintenance while design investigations are carried out for their full renewal.

Tourism, Events and Sport Councillor, Jason O’Pray said ongoing beach maintenance provided an important buffer to protect adjacent public assets including roads, caravan parks and community spaces, for local residents and visitors to enjoy.

“Our beaches are not only loved by our local community and play a vital role in our coastal lifestyle, but they also support the continued growth of our region’s tourism industry,” Cr O’Pray said.

“With the Easter long weekend, and the associated tides, coming earlier this year, it’s important to ensure our beaches are in good condition ahead of the upcoming school holidays.”