Fears popular Aussie beach could be closed for months

Locals fear a popular Queensland beach could be affected by constructions works for a whopping 18 months.

Locals fear a popular Sunshine Coast beach could close for months next year for the construction of a new seawall.

As part of the Mooloolaba Foreshore Revitalisation project the existing ageing vertical seawall at Mooloolaba beach is set to be replaced with a seawall of wide concrete terraced steps.

According to Sunshine Coast Council, the seawall, built in the 1960s would not adequately protect the parklands, paths, roads and underground services (such as power, telecommunications and water supply) from climate change impacts in years to come.

The Federal Government, through the National Emergency Management Agency Disaster Ready Fund, is contributing $7.95 million toward replacing the seawall.

The existing vertical seawall from Brisbane Road to the Surf Club. Picture: Sunshine Coast Council

But locals are concerned their beautiful beach – a tourism drawcard – could be closed for months to complete works on the new 290 metre seawall.

The Beach Matters Community group, which opposes the seawall in its current design and wants more community consultation, understands closures could last up to 18 months, which would have a “massive economic impact to local traders, accommodation, hotels, events and tourism”.

An artist’s impression of the new terraced steps seawall. Picture: Sunshine Coast Council

President of the group Rach Bermingham said they wanted council to detail how the beach, businesses and community would be affected during the seawall’s construction, and how affected businesses will be supported.

“We know from talking to other areas that have had their beach car parks closed and seawalls put in that they have experienced a 30 per cent drop in revenue,” she told news.com.au.

“A frightening thought for some businesses who have already ordered for next year without any knowledge their trade wouldn’t be as high as it was this year because of this.”

She said they were told in a recent meeting with council project managers that the expected duration for construction would be about 18 months.

Mooloolaba Chamber of Commerce president Graeme Juniper shared similar concerns about the project.

“Why do people go on holidays? For the beach, for shopping and for dining. They’re the three things that will be affected by what they propose here,” he told 7 News.

Local council says the existing seawall is not adequate. Picture: Lachie Millard

Sunshine Coast Council confirmed to news.com.au construction was expected to start next year. It did not specify the length of construction or any associated beach closures or restrictions.

“Council must now rely on input from expert contractors and the outcomes of the construction expressions of interest will guide timing and sequencing of the project,” a council spokeswoman said.

“During construction, adjacent access to the beach will be provided and access to businesses will remain available. Council will continue to work with the lifeguards and Surf Life Saving Club to plan for and ensure suitable areas on the broader Mooloolaba beach are patrolled for swimmers.

“Council will continue to work with our community, including residents, businesses and tourism operators, to help plan for the construction phase and ensure the best outcomes.”

Data from Tourism Research Australia shows the region attracted domestic overnight visitor expenditure of $4.4 billion in the last financial year.

Tourists who did day trips to the Sunshine Coast spent $854 million in the same period.