A new sand transport system designed to mitigate erosion and help keep the Gold Coast’s northern beaches pristine is about to start.
The Surfers Paradise Sand Backpass will pump sand from the existing Gold Coast Waterways Authority (GCWA) Sand Bypass System at The Spit to Surfers Paradise and other beaches.
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said the 7.8km system would ensure the popular northern beaches were in pristine condition.
“It also provides a buffer against erosion and protect vital coastal infrastructure,” Mayor Tate said.
“This system can help sand to be returned to beaches after they have been struck by powerful storms or king tides.”
Mayor Tate said they Coast’s northern beaches had the highest risk of erosion in the city.
“Sand on the Gold Coast naturally migrates north and collects at The Spit at the existing sand bypass jetty.”
He said using the existing GCWA jetty infrastructure, the backpass would pump natural sand and seawater south to help replenish beaches at Surfers Paradise, Narrowneck and Main Beach.
“The pumping will occur during winter to reduce impacts on beach users, and each year about 120,000 cubic metres of sand will be returned to our beaches.”
Mayor Tate said this year’s nourishment campaign will start this month and end early September and will occur in stages between Cavill Ave and Narrowneck.
