A popular dog beach is set to be replenished with sand, to help combat erosion.
The beach at Noosa Spit, in Noosa Heads, has been “slowly eroding” near the Noosa River mouth.
But Noosa Council has been granted an environmental permit by the Queensland Government to start sand nourishment works.
The $1 million project will pump sand from designated collection zones in the Noosa River channel and re-nourish the shores of the area that is fondly known by locals as Doggy Beach.
Noosa Mayor Clare Stewart said it was crucial to start work.
“The dog beach at Noosa Spit is an important site supporting key recreational and social activities and forms part of an artificially constructed river training and coastal defence strategy for the Noosa River mouth,” she said.
“Over the years, this defence system has been slowly eroding, seeing trees and pathways washed away.
“Getting the green light from the state government is a significant milestone for council in the delivery of these important nourishment works, enabling us to restore the beach and the protection it provides to the area.”
Project manager Cody Johnston said the works would bolster the foreshore.
“Increasing the volume of sand at the dog beach will help redirect the river’s main flow, reduce erosion caused by subsequent currents and boat wash and improve the Spit’s resilience to cyclone events,” he said.
“The sand nourishment works will take place between June and the end of September to minimise the impact on the coastal and marine environment, including fish spawning, bird migration and the flowering and fruiting of marine plants.”
Noosa Council is tendering the works to lock in a specialist contractor to complete the nourishment program.
Several safety measures will be in place for the duration of the works, with the dog beach and a part of the car park next to the beach closed.
“For the safety of the contractor and the public we ask that all users of the beach, including walkers, swimmers, and all recreational marine craft (powered and non-powered), avoid the area as works are completed,” Mr Johnston said.
“Marine vessels will still be able to travel in and out of the river as normal and will be redirected to the main channel around the area.
“We appreciate the community’s patience as we complete these works in the area for everyone to enjoy again.”
To find out more about visit Noosa – Work in Progress.
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