More sand to protect Apollo Bay foreshore from winter storms

THE Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) is replenishing sand levels at Apollo Bay, where storms have caused significant erosion along the foreshore.

DELWP is carrying out the works in partnership with the Otway Coast Committee, with support from the Colac Otway Shire as the Apollo Bay Harbour manager, in an attempt to prevent further erosion. On Tuesday June 19, contractors began transporting more than 16,000 cubic metres of sand from the Apollo Bay Harbour to the beach.

DELWP Barwon South West Regional Manager of Land and Built Environment Greg Leece said the new sand is designed to safeguard local infrastructure and assets behind the foreshore by an immediate buffer from more winter storms.

“This includes sections the Great Ocean Road walking path, public car parking and water and sewerage mains.

“The sand for this project is being dredged from the Apollo Bay Harbour, where an excess of sand has built up over time.

“Removing this sand will deepen the harbour and improve access for larger vessels.

“The project is expected to be completed over the next two months, weather conditions and tide movements permitting.

“These works are essential to ensure public safety along the foreshore, following the rapid erosion we’ve seen here recently.

“As our beaches are susceptible to constant natural process and the impacts of climate change, ongoing work is needed to protect them and surrounding infrastructure.”

With up to 20 truck movements occurring on the foreshore each day, a traffic management plan is in place to ensure the safety of local road users.

The stretch of Apollo Bay foreshore that has been closed is approximately one-kilometre in length, and runs from Cawood Street to Marriners Lookout Road.

As public safety is a priority, the project area has been cordoned off and signage is providing safety warnings.

DELWP is working with the Otway Coast Committee of Management, Colac Otway Shire, Barwon Water and VicRoads to coordinate management of the site, including long-term actions to address infrastructure risk.

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