Council’s beach care proposal set to create $50m shortfall

A 10-year plan to protect beaches from erosion and the impacts of climate change could leave a $50m shortfall in a Queensland council’s budget. TAKE THE POLL.

A 10-year plan to protect Sunshine Coast beaches from erosion and the impacts of climate change could leave a $50m hole in the local government’s budget, a report has revealed. Picture Lachie Millard

A 10-year plan to protect Sunshine Coast beaches from erosion and the impacts of climate change could leave a $50m hole in the local government’s budget, a report has revealed.

The proposal for the Shoreline Erosion Management Plan is set to be presented at the Sunshine Coast Council ordinary meeting on Wednesday, May 21.

According to the council’s report each proposed action plan to deal with future shoreline erosion would result in a $50m deficit in the allocated budget.

“A deficit of approximately $50 million exists between all proposed actions within the Shoreline Erosion Management Plan and the Coast and Canals 10-year capital program budget, however noting some of these actions may not eventuate if specific triggers are not met and external funding grants are expected to contribute to delivery of actions over the next 10 years,” the council report stated.

The 10-year plan was designed by the council to identify areas of concerns regarding the erosion of Sunshine Coast shorelines with storm surges and the impacts of climate change.

Ex tropical cyclone Alfred caused beach erosion in Maroochydore. Picture: Lachie Millard

The shoreline plan comes after ex tropical cyclone Alfred ripped away metres of beach across the region with storm surges and large swell earlier this year.

The recent Bribie Island breakthrough has also caused concern about the broader impacts it could have on the surrounding beaches.

The state government is launching a review of the Bribie Island breakthrough, with public consultation. Picture: Patrick Woods.

“Long-term planning for these areas must also consider the potential for coastal hazards, such as storm tide events and flooding, and the need for adaptation to climate change induced sea-level rise,” the report to councillors stated.

According to the report, the council would undertake regular inspections of beach infrastructure and complete management tasks.

“The Shoreline Erosion Management Plan is intended to be a living document, responding to any major change in priorities and pressures as they emerge,” the report stated.

“Should any major changes be required ahead of the scheduled major 5-year review, these changes would be brought back to Council for consideration and endorsement at that time.”

The report stated if the council were to not endorse the 10-year plan it would risk the preservation of local beaches from degradation over the next decade.

A draft of the plan has also been provided to the state government for endorsement.