New seawall protects Golden Beach foreshore
A major upgrade to the Golden Beach seawall at Caloundra is now complete, designed to protect the foreshore while also providing more ways for locals and visitors to enjoy the area.
The reconstruction project is part of a $6.3 million investment to strengthen the Golden Beach coastline and improve public amenity, funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments through the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Funding Recovery Arrangements (DRFA) and delivered by Sunshine Coast Council.
The reconstructed seawall extends 208 metres between Nelson Street and the TS Onslow Naval Cadets site.
Severe weather in 2021 and 2022 badly damaged the old seawall, with subsequent erosion seeing conditions along the coastal stretch quickly deteriorate.
Constructed with rock and concrete, the seawall also includes two staircases for safe beach access and a four-metre-wide pedestrian and vehicle ramp at the northern end of the site.
To make sure the seawall would withstand local conditions, a scale model of the structure was tested at the Manly Hydraulics Laboratory.
The seawall has been designed based on sea level rise projections for 2074 and beyond, and the unique movements of the Pumicestone Passage.
By planning for the future and using materials that can be built on and reinforced if required, council and contractors Australian Marine and Civil have made sure the community is protected against coastal threats for generations.
Other elements of the broader project include terraced spaces to allow for seating and viewing of events, and the landscaping of public amenity to enhance the natural beauty of Golden Beach.
Much-needed repairs to the damaged boat ramp at the Naval Cadets site have also been carried out.
The project combines resilience and recreation to deliver a fantastic outcome for the people of Caloundra.
Further improvements to Golden Beach foreshore continue to be undertaken, with full project information and community updates provided on the Sunshine Coast Council website.