Dredging work has begun as part of a $20 million emergency package to address erosion and tidal breakthrough impacts at an island off the Sunshine Coast.
The dredger started operating in the Pumicestone Passage recently to help restore sections of Bribie Island and protect coastal communities ahead of storm season.
In preparation for dredging, crews have been welding together 100-metre-long pipe strings and floating them out to the dredger via the Golden Beach foreshore, north of the Caloundra Power Boat Club.
Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie says the works are critical in safeguarding the local community following years of erosion.
“Without intervention, remaining sections of the island may be lost entirely, creating significant safety and infrastructure risks to the Caloundra community and users of Pumicestone Passage,” he says.
Breakthroughs 2 and 3 are scheduled to be closed and nourishment of the island between breakthrough 1 and 3 started by the end of next month, with all dredging and associated construction works scheduled to be completed by the end of April next year.
Coordinator-General Gerard Coggan says fast-tracking dredging is a priority to safeguard the coastal area and the local community.
“These emergency works are critical to mitigating further damage to the internationally recognised Ramsar wetland, as well as protecting property, community infrastructure, and public safety with the storm season approaching,” Mr Coggan says.
“We recognise the temporary disruptions these works may cause, including changes to access and increased activity in the area.
“We appreciate the community’s patience and cooperation as we work to protect and restore this unique
part of Queensland’s coastline for future generations.”
On-water dredging activities will occur up to 24 hours a day, with most on-land construction activity occurring between 6am and 6pm, seven days a week.
