The coastal environment
- Georges River including Woronora River and Botany Bay
- Port Hacking and the Hacking River
- Bate Bay within the Pacific Ocean catchment
NSW coastal management framework
The NSW Government provides the coastal management framework to support a healthy and resilient coastline.
This is delivered through Coastal Management Programs (CMPs), prepared by local councils to guide long-term, coordinated and sustainable management.
Our three CMPs
The Bate Bay Coastal Management Program has been adopted by Council and certified by the NSW Government.
Georges River Catchment CMP: The Stage 1 Scoping Study has been completed by Georges Riverkeeper.
Port Hacking CMP: Stage 1 is set to begin soon with grant funding approved by NSW Government.
Governance of this project will be overseen by Council’s Catchment and Waterways Reference Group.
The CMP will assess, update and unify the following past Studies completed in the Port Hacking catchment:
- Bundeena Creek Management Plan
- Ewey Creek Management Plan
- Gunnamatta Bay Contaminated Sediment Study
- Gymea Bay Estuary Management Plan
- North West Arm Coastal Zone Management Plan
- Port Hacking Integrated Environmental Management Plan & Bibliography
- Port Hacking - Past and Present of an Estuarine Environment
- Yowie Bay Estuary Management Study & Plan
Bate Bay dune management
Dunes are an important part of our coastline, providing protection from storms and winds, as well as being essential habitat for wildlife. Our Bate Bay beaches sit within a closed system framed by our headlands, where sand naturally shifts from south to north over time. Recent storm events have increased this shift and made dunes more mobile and less stable.
Our updated Dune Maintenance Plan, as part of our Bate Bay Coastal Management Program (CMP), sets out our plans to replenish, restore and protect our dunes.
The plan developed by industry experts, including costal engineers and ecologists, takes a tailored and site-specific approach to:
- improve the ecological condition of the beach
- improve access tracks for beach users and emergency services
- restore native vegetation, and
- protect nearby assets including public footpaths and showers.
Visit the project page to find out about upcoming dune maintenance works.
Coastal erosion at North Cronulla 2022
Coastal erosion at North Cronulla 1974
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Bate Bay / Cronulla Seawalls
A seawall is a structure made of concrete, masonry, rocks, or sheet piles built parallel to the shore to protect the inland area against wave action and prevent coastal erosion. Seawalls are typically massive structures designed to resist storm surges and erosion.
The seawalls are designed to provide permanent protection against coastal erosion, which has significantly impacted the beaches in the area. They are part of the Bate Bay Coastal Management Program aimed at safeguarding the coastline and enhancing public access and amenity. They help to stabilise the shoreline, reduce erosion, and safeguard the community from potential damage caused by storms and rising sea levels.
Seawalls can impact local marine ecosystems by altering natural habitats. We are mindful of these effects and works to balance coastal protection with environmental conservation. Where possible, environmentally friendly materials and designs are used to minimise impact on marine life.
When it comes to beach and sand replenishment, there are typically a few strategies that we use to address erosion and maintain beach quality. Here's an overview of common approaches:
Natural Replenishment: This approach relies on natural processes to restore beach sand. Councils might work to preserve or restore natural sand sources, such as dunes or coastal wetlands, which can help replenish beaches over time. Sometimes this includes managing vegetation to stabilise dunes and prevent further erosion.
Beach Nourishment Projects: This may involve adding sand to the beach from other locations. These projects are usually undertaken when natural replenishment is insufficient or too slow. They can be periodic or one-time interventions, depending on the erosion rates and the specific needs of the beach.
Beach Scraping: Beach scraping is the movement of sand from the intertidal zone to the dune or upper beach by mechanical means. Beach scraping mimics natural beach recovery processes but increases the recovery rate compared with natural processes. Beach scraping differs from beach nourishment in that nourishment involves sand being imported, whereas with beach scraping, sand is redistributed within the littoral system. This redistribution used in scraping means that natural forces may do some of the work, potentially resulting in lower costs than nourishment.
Dune Restoration: Rebuilding and stabilising sand dunes can help protect the beach from erosion. This might involve planting vegetation, installing sand fencing, and managing human activity to ensure dunes can develop and stabilse effectively.
Community Engagement: Educating and involving the local community in beach conservation efforts can help reduce human impact on coastal environments and support natural replenishment processes.
These methods vary in effectiveness based on local conditions, such as the rate of erosion, the source of sand, and environmental considerations. We will assess these factors and choose the best approach or combination of approaches for their specific needs.
We regularly inspect the seawalls and access tracks to assess their condition. Any damage or debris is promptly addressed to ensure the safety of beachgoers and maintain clear, accessible paths to the beach, subject to available resources and conditions. If you notice any damage, please report it to us.
The community can play a vital role in protecting our beaches by following guidelines, respecting the natural environment, and participating in beach clean-up efforts. Reducing litter, avoiding walking on dunes, and supporting our initiatives also contribute to preserving the beauty and safety of our coastline.
Exposed old seawalls can pose hazards to surfers and beachgoers. Like any historical structure, they may present risks. It’s important to be mindful of their condition and potential dangers. We encourage everyone to stay clear of these areas and follow any posted warnings or guidelines to ensure their safety.
We are committed to the long-term maintenance and improvement of the seawalls. Regular assessments are conducted to ensure the seawalls remain effective, and any necessary repairs or upgrades are made in a timely manner. We explore new technologies and methods to enhance coastal protection.
For more detailed information about the seawalls and ongoing coastal management efforts, please contact us.
Regional collaboration
Sutherland Shire Council is an active member of Georges Riverkeeper and the Sydney Coastal Councils Group. These groups advocate for improving the health and resilience of our coasts and estuaries.