State Budget to include $4 million boost for regional coasts, with major announcement expected on battle to save West Beach

As SA beaches continue to erode, those who use them have been calling out for protective measures. On Monday they’re going to get some help, to the tune of $4 million.

• Coastal erosion threatens Adelaide beaches
• Regional councils seek $10m for coastline protection works

Plans to battle erosion and sand drift will get a $4 million boost in this month’s State Budget, with a pledge to back local and “practical” solutions that protect SA’s coastline.

Environment and Water Minister David Speirs will confirm the new cash injection for regional coasts on Monday, but is also expected to make a significant announcement about protecting city beaches.

The State Government has previously said it is considering “long-term solutions” to fix erosion at West Beach, which is currently treated through the expensive and disruptive process of sand carting.

Mr Speirs said SA’s coastline was one of the state’s most precious natural resources and “the first defence against a changing climate”.

“We are fortunate to have some amazing beaches in this state and it’s important we do everything we can to protect them,” he said.

“This investment will build resilience and improve environmental outcomes in a practical way.”

West Beach sand erosion. Picture: Save West Beach Sand

Councils will be able to access the $4 million fund to support the development of local hazard adaptation strategies, design and test new approaches to coastal protection or build structures that offer protection.

They will also be able to partner with business in cases where “innovative solutions” are found. Mr Speirs said many councils were already taking action to secure coasts and problems of erosion, flooding and sand dune drift were exacerbated by rising sea levels.

“Investment in our coastline will not only have significant environmental benefits but will boost our regional economies as well by attracting more visitors,” he said.

President of West Beach Surf Life Saving Club, Peter Zuil. Picture: AAP / Matt Loxton

In February, sand erosion at West Beach prompted the Government to consider finishing the sand-pumping pipeline that its predecessor failed to complete, at an extra cost that was estimated to potentially be as high as $25 million.

The 20-year Adelaide Living Beaches Strategy was based on a sand pipeline running along the entire metropolitan coast. But the money ran out and only two sections were built, at a cost of $23 million. The southern one between Glenelg and Kingston Park is operating, pumping 100,000 cubic metres a year. The other at West Beach is not, because it’s too short.

The Government is spending $1 million to cart a record amount of sand over two years to save West Beach, where the erosion is so perilous Surf Life Saving Club president Peter Zuil is concerned about the club’s future at its current site.