$52m in State Budget to pump sand, combat coastal erosion along Adelaide’s city beaches

Famous for its beaches, Adelaide is losing its sand — but the State Budget will put aside $52m to pump it from Semaphore to West Beach and buy 500,000 cubic metres of new sand.

• Drawing a line in the sand on erosion

A sand pumping pipeline from Semaphore to West Beach will be completed to combat erosion caused by wind and waves as part of a $52 million package to secure city coastlines.

The confirmation on Monday follows the State Government’s announcement of a $4 million regional coastlines fund, which communities can bid into to protect local environments.

Premier Steven Marshall said the June 18 State Budget would feature $24.8 million for the completion of a sand recycling pipeline from Semaphore to West Beach.

It complements an existing pipeline from Glenelg to Kingston Park, which pumps approximately 100,000 cubic metres of sand each year to stabilise dunes and maintain southern beaches such as Seacliff.

Sand erosion at West Beach in March. Picture: Naomi Jellicoe

The total $52.4 million beaches package also includes $20 million for additional sand, including approximately 500,000 cubic metres of which will be newly sourced, and dune restoration and revegetation to be undertaken with councils and community groups.

Mr Marshall said the “significant investment” will protect coasts for generations to come.

“SA’s coastline is regarded as one of our most precious natural resources and, more than that, it’s a crucial drawcard for our tourism industry,” he said.

Sand is taken from Semaphore Park in March, to be moved to West Beach where significant erosion has taken place. Picture: AAP / Dean Martin

“Our coastline is treasured by local communities and travellers alike, but unfortunately it’s suffering from the effects of significant storms which have caused millions of dollars of damage and depleted beaches of thousands of tonnes of sand.

“We know that erosion has been a cause of angst for local communities along our coast, and hope that this provides them with some relief.

“In addition, we hope that this investment helps attract more visitors to SA, and creates jobs during the process.”

Sand is dumped on West Beach after serious erosion removed it. Picture: Naomi Jellicoe

Environment and Water Minister David Speirs said wind and waves naturally moved sand to the north and, an expert report commissioned by the Government outlined possible solutions.

“Mass sand replenishment, along with a sand recycling pipeline, were identified as practical measures that would secure West Beach’s future,” Mr Speirs said.

“We recognise the importance of our coastline as the first defence against our changing climate, and this investment will build resilience and improve environmental outcomes in a practical way.”