The Gold Coast is set to benefit from a new $57 million funding package to fix our beaches almost a year on from Cyclone Alfred.
The State and Federal Government funding will be handed out to eight Queensland councils to help restore severely eroded beaches.
Sections of our coastline, particularly on the northern Gold Coast, are still yet to fully recover after being decimated during the height of the severe weather system.
The new package is part of the broader Tropical Cyclone Alfred Environmental Recovery Package: Coastline Rehabilitation Program.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said all levels of government were working together on long-term recovery from Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
“Beaches are an integral part of these communities and it’s crucial that local governments get the support they need to bring some of our nation’s best coastlines back to their former glory,” she said.
“This is a significant package that won’t only bring back a sense of normalcy, but will rebuild habitats for local wildlife and rehabilitate coastlines so they can withstand future severe weather events.”
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the funding boost would help coastal regionals continue to recover.
“We’re backing councils to restore Queensland’s beaches to the worldclass standard people know and love,” Minister Powell said.
“Beaches are the heart of many coastal towns as they draw visitors, support local jobs, and are a big part of why people choose to live by the water.
“They’re not just tourism hotspots they’re vital ecosystems and natural barriers that protect our communities from storms.
“We’re focused on long-term recovery, especially on the Gold Coast, which has copped the worst of the erosion.
“From sand reshaping to new vegetation, this work will help return our beaches to their natural best.”
