A multimillion-dollar seawall replacement is forging ahead at one of Queensland’s most visited beaches, with work on the new foundations set to start next week.
A 25-tonne excavator has removed parts of the 1960s vertical rock seawall at tourist hotspot Mooloolaba Beach.
The demolition is expected to continue this week while preparatory works ramp up for a new coloured concrete wall with wide terraced steps.
The works are part of Stage 2 of the Mooloolaba Foreshore Revitalisation Project.
A Sunshine Coast Council spokesperson said contractor SEE Civil was making “steady progress” on the project.
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They said the excavator had “carefully removed sections of the seawall, working northward from the surf club”.
“It’s important to note that not all of the current seawall is being demolished,” they said.
“Where possible, the new seawall will be constructed over the top of the existing one to maximise efficiency and sustainability.
“The rock material removed during demolition is being re-used on site wherever possible.
“Any surplus is transported for processing and recycling, supporting future projects.
“This week, select seawall demolition continues while secant pile preparation works commence for construction of the new seawall.
“These works will continue progressing northward from the surf club, forming a key part of the revitalisation that will enhance safety, resilience and community enjoyment of the foreshore.”
Seawall foundation piling is set to start next week, marking a pivotal stage in the project as crews lay the base for the new wall.
The new wall was designed after council engaged with coastal and structural engineers including JPB, University of New South Wales and Barlow Shelley Consulting.
Stage 2 will also include a ‘Central Meeting Place’ with seating, open areas, shaded event space, ocean viewing deck, beach access and a wider pathway. The ageing Loo with a View is being demolished to make way for new amenities.
Vegetation clearing works have been completed.
The seawall and Central Meeting Place sites have been fenced off, with beachgoers able to access the beach either side of it. Temporary toilets are in place at the northern end. Businesses along the esplanade are operating as usual while visitors can get four hours of free parking at the ParkNGo Mooloolaba Central.
The seawall replacement is funded by the council’s capital works program and the federal government, which dedicated $7.95m towards it. The Central Meeting Place has received funding from council, state and federal governments.
Work is expected to continue until early to mid-2027.
