Solutions to coastal erosion to be presented soon

THE Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) has announced it will present the community with a range of options to address coastal erosion at Apollo Bay and Marengo.

DELWP and the Otway Coast Committee of Management (OCC), with support from VicRoads and the Colac Otway Shire, are continuing to coordinate the management of the Apollo Bay foreshore where winter storms caused extensive damage.

These agencies are considering a range of repair works for affected areas, in addition to long-term measures which will aim to protect the Apollo Bay and Marengo foreshores from further coastal erosion.

DELWP Barwon South West regional manager of land and built environment Greg Leece said the agencies were seeking further advice from specialist coastal and infrastructure engineers to guide response works, such as the replacement of walking tracks, car parks, beach access, fencing and barriers.

“DELWP, the OCC and VicRoads are also investigating a range of long-term measures to address erosion in the future.

“By early October, DELWP will present the community with a range of short-term and longterm options, to establish the community’s priorities moving forward.

“During a public consultation process, community feedback will be sought regarding the prioritisation of repair works and preferences around long-term solutions to address ongoing erosion events.”

He said discussions would also be held about the issues associated with restoring damaged infrastructure.

“Potential solutions will be worked through with the community, and their views will be integrated into the decision-making process.

“The upcoming community consultation will build on action that has already been undertaken in the aftermath of the winter storms.

“This has seen the commencement of a sand renourishment project at Apollo Bay, the establishment and maintenance of closures around damaged areas, the surveying of sand losses through drone flights, and work with partner agencies to identify potential solutions.

“To date, more than 6,000 cubic metres of sand has been delivered to the Apollo Bay foreshore, providing short-term protection while long-term solutions are determined.”

DELWP has allocated $170,000 to assist the OCC with their response to the erosion damage, and DELWP will set aside further funding for long-term solutions.