City works to alleviate erosion

The City of Greater Geraldton is taking measures to fight Mother Nature on all fronts in the ongoing battle against coastal erosion.

City engineers met with members of Drummond Cove Progress Association this week to discuss some of their concerns about coastal erosion in the area.

City Director of Community Infrastructure, Neil Arbuthnot, said the meeting was positive and work has been undertaken with additional rocks placed around John Batten Community Hall to continue to protect the infrastructure.

“This situation will continue to be monitored,” he said.

St Georges Beach has been continually monitored over the past few months and temporary measures using a combination of rock, geo fabric and sand will be put in place to prevent further erosion impacting on infrastructure.

“More permanent measures will be taken as soon as the appropriate materials can be sourced to put in place the recommendations of the Coastal Engineer engaged to assist the City,” said Mr Arbuthnot.

“The City has attempted to obtain sandbags to help remedy the situation but there is a delivery wait of up to 10 weeks due to the demand from the Eastern States and overseas.

“Clearly coastal erosion is a global problem; it is not unique to Geraldton.”

“However, the current works will not be a permanent solution to protect the infrastructure; it is a short to medium term action to prevent further damage to infrastructure,” he said.

“The City has consulted coastal engineers that have supported the current action and short term temporary actions proposed.”

Coastal engineers have also been engaged for a preliminary investigation at Greys Beach in relation to the former car park erosion.

Mr Arbuthnot said whilst the erosion is significant it has not increased substantially at Greys Beach in the past two months and the City will continue to monitor this location.

“The City will take action to prevent the destruction or damage to existing essential infrastructure,” he said.

“At all times the City seeks advice from experienced and recognised coastal engineering consultants and long term, permanent actions are actively being investigated as a matter of priority.”