Emergency sand works carried out to protect Apollo Bay foreshore

THE Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) and Otway Coast Committee (OCC) carried out emergency works last week to replenish sand along the Apollo Bay foreshore.

The works included beach reprofiling and sand renourishment to minimise further erosion by providing a buffer on sections of the foreshore where recent storms have taken sand away from the beach.

DELWP regional manager of land and built environment Greg Leece said the works and extra sand would help protect assets behind the foreshore, including sections of the Great Ocean Road, walking path, car parking and water and sewerage mains.

“The project will be completed in two stages to reduce the impact of truck movements on the beach during the Easter holiday period.

“Last week’s works involved reprofiling sections of the beach between Cawood Street and Marriners Lookout Road, with sand pushed up the beach from the low tide line to immediately buffer the foreshore.

“The second stage of the project will involve relocating sand from the groyne at the Apollo Bay harbour, where excess sand has built up, to renourish the beach,” Mr Leece said.

“This sand renourishment project is an interim measure to protect the foreshore while a longerterm, more permanent\ solution is identified.

“Sand renourishment has allowed us time to investigate suitable longer-term options and understand the community’s preferences.”

OCC Chair Jennifer Johnson said in starting the works, the committee was conscious of the influx of visitors to Apollo Bay over the Easter break.

“With further king tides expected shortly, the reprofiling works will provide interim protection without hampering beach access at a peak tourist time.

“Apollo Bay’s beaches are vulnerable to natural processes and the impacts of climate change.

“We appreciate the community’s understanding while we complete this important work to manage these impacts.”

The $100,000 works have been funded by DELWP.