Two coastal engineering firms have been appointed to lead an independent review into the Bribie Island breakthrough.
The Crisafulli state government has announced that RPS and International Coastal Management will lead the review to find ways to mitigate the current island erosion and to address complex issues surrounding the breakthrough and its local impacts.
A major breakthrough occurred at the northern end of the island in early 2022 and was followed by what appeared to be a subsequent breakthrough just south of the Lions Park as Tropical Cyclone Alfred loomed in late February-early March.
The Pumicestone Passage Catchment Management Board has voiced strong concerns about the diminishing protection offered by the island to Golden Beach and Caloundra.
The state government responded by announcing last month that it would commission an independent review. Then, the second breakthrough seemed to become established.
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said securing experts with international experience in this field was a key step in getting the review underway.
“Ongoing erosion continues to affect Bribie Island and the broader Caloundra community, which is why the Crisafulli government is responding,” he said.
“Both RPS and ICM bring a wealth of knowledge in coastal engineering that will be critical in identifying both immediate actions and long-term solutions to address community concerns.
“Community consultation will ensure the review is locally informed, providing an evidence-based platform to enable the voices and views of locals and key stakeholders.”
Under the terms of reference for the review, it is to include a desktop review of previous reports and studies, identify causes for the ongoing erosion, wash-overs and breakthroughs, and identify the impacts of the breakthroughs on the natural protection of Caloundra.
The review is to assess the impact of dredging and shipping channel operations that affect sand migration, consider natural and anthropogenic changes contributing to island erosion, and develop long-term recommendations to reduce risk of further damage, including to mainland foreshore, infrastructure and waterways.
The review is to also include consultation with local and federal government and the community on short and long-term solutions.
Member for Caloundra Kendall Morton praised the efforts of local residents for raising the issue of the island breakthroughs with the government and encouraged them to participate in the review.
“The Crisafulli Government has heard the concerns of the community and we are taking swift action,” she said.
“This is a big issue in our community, and I urge locals to come forward and work with us on the current impacts and potential solutions.”
The review is to be finalised by the end of August this year.
