C.Y. O’Connor Beach, North Coogee - How we adapt to coastal changes

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Consultation has concluded


Background

The City’s beaches and coastline are invaluable natural and community assets. Our beaches are however vulnerable to natural processes such as erosion and inundation.

C.Y. O’Connor Beach has experienced persistent erosion since the late 1990s. Coastal engineering studies have identified that erosion will continue and the shoreline will recede further, putting assets and beach amenities at risk. The impacts of rising sea levels driven by climate change will further exacerbate the problem, with much of the foreshore lost if no action is taken.

Recently, due to erosion, certain portions of the dual-use path adjacent to the beach became compromised


Background

The City’s beaches and coastline are invaluable natural and community assets. Our beaches are however vulnerable to natural processes such as erosion and inundation.

C.Y. O’Connor Beach has experienced persistent erosion since the late 1990s. Coastal engineering studies have identified that erosion will continue and the shoreline will recede further, putting assets and beach amenities at risk. The impacts of rising sea levels driven by climate change will further exacerbate the problem, with much of the foreshore lost if no action is taken.

Recently, due to erosion, certain portions of the dual-use path adjacent to the beach became compromised and subsequently required relocation. Between 2016 and 2018, the City has invested approximately $300,000 in sand replenishment works. Sand replenishment, also known as beach nourishment, is a process where sand is added to a beach or coastal area that has experienced erosion. This replenishes the lost sand and creates a usable beach area.

The City is currently investigating more sustainable and long-term options to mitigate the impact of erosion. The various treatments available may have differing effects on the beach and its usage. To help the City understand how to best adapt and plan for the future of C.Y. O'Connor Beach, the City asked residents to share what they value about this beach and how they envisage its future. This information will guide our exploration and enable us to identify options that align with our community's vision for the beach.

What our community said

The City heard from over 320 people during the feedback period (October to December 2019), and this project page was visited 680 times. Participants had their say at our community workshops, interview sessions, and via our survey, community discussion board and email. Key findings include:

  • Most respondents are regular visitors to C.Y. O'Connor Beach and understand the ongoing coastal vulnerability challenges.
  • Popular activities among visitors include dog walking, swimming, and exercising.
  • Preserving a sandy beach and direct access to the water are our community's top priorities for the beach's future.
  • Respondents support implementing measures that align with these priorities and ensure continued enjoyment of their favourite beach activities well into the future.

For more information view the Community Feedback Summary in the Document Library.

The City has engaged engineers specialising in coastal erosion to further research and assess this section of our coast. Feedback from the consultation process will help to guide potential long-term adaptation measures we implement at C.Y. O'Connor Beach.

More Information

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