Protection of Mooloolaba Beach continues

Following installation of an underground sand pipeline along Mooloolaba Beach earlier this year, Sunshine Coast Council will start work next month to extend the underground sand barrier wall to further protect the dunes and vital vegetation.

Division 4 Councillor Chris Thompson said it was the second stage of an underground geotextile sand bag protection wall council had installed along Mooloolaba Beach.

“Council is installing geotextile sand bag containers between Beach Access 193 and the Mooloolaba harbour wall which will provide a continuous barrier from Urunga Esplanade to help prevent erosion and protect dunal vegetation,” Cr Thompson said.

“These containers are essentially large sand bags made from a specialised material that we will place along the face of the dune.

“Minimising damage to the dunes through this project and ongoing dune protection helps council restore the beach quickly and effectively after weather events.

“This project is part of council’s $183 million Capital Works Program and demonstrates our commitment to protecting the waterways and beaches across the region for everyone to enjoy.”

Installation of the containers is expected to be complete before the Queensland school holidays in December (weather and tides dependant).

Beach access points 193 and 194 will be temporarily closed during construction. Sections of the beach will also be closed during excavation work.

Traffic control and signs will be in place to ensure the safety of beach users.

Fast facts

Geotextiles are permeable fabrics which, when used with soil, have the ability to separate, protect and reinforce soil structures and act as a filter to drain water.
Council completed stage one of this project in 2010, which included installing underground geotextile sand containers between Urunga Esplanade and Beach Access 193.
In recent years, council constructed an underground sand pipeline along Mooloolaba Beach and between Maroochydore and Alexandra Headland, which allows council to pump sand along the beaches when required to help protect and renourish them.
Sand renourishment allows the shoreline to respond to natural erosion events, enhances the dunes and ensures the beach can be enjoyed by residents and visitors.