Beachmere Shoreline - Frequently asked questions
Council has provided answers to a range of frequently asked questions about the Beachmere Shoreline Management.
Questions
Do I have to build a seawall?
No. Property owners can decide if and when they build a seawall. Dune and vegetation management can also be a very effective method of erosion control.
Back to question ⤴
Do I have to demolish my unapproved seawall and build a new one?
If your seawall can meet the design standards required for the A-line, or if it can be brought up to that standard with some rectification work, then you may be able to have the existing seawall approved. If your seawall can't meet that standard it will need to be removed. You may choose to either build a new seawall or manage dunes and vegetation after removing the unapproved seawall.
Back to question ⤴
Can I choose what kind of materials to use when building my seawall?
The Development Approval specifies that the materials for seawall construction must meet the Australian Standard AS 2758.6 (2019). Council recommends granite armour stone as a suitable material that is readily available from local quarries. Property owners may choose to use another material that still meets the same Australian Standard. Materials such as timber and sandstone do not meet AS 2758.6 (2019) and are not suitable for new seawalls.
Back to question ⤴
Can I build a seawall design that is different to the one provided by Council?
Yes, as long as it complies with the design standards specified in the Development Approval. If you only want to make minor changes to the design provided by Council, such as adding stairs, you may be able to apply for a Recheck Approved Design for a relatively small fee. If your preferred design is substantially different to the one provided by Council, you will need to submit it through the Development Approval process to ensure it meets the required standard.
Back to question ⤴
Can I build a seawall in a different location to the A-line alignment?
No. All seawalls in Beachmere must be built on the approved A-line alignment. This is to ensure a consistent line of seawalls, which improves their effectiveness in reducing erosion and also reduces impacts on the sensitive marine park environment and neighbouring properties.
Back to question ⤴
Will I get fined for my unapproved seawall?
Council will contact property owners with unapproved seawalls and work with them to either achieve compliance or remove the seawall. Property owners that have not made substantial efforts towards either outcome within 12 months may face compliance action, including significant fines.
Back to question ⤴
What if I don’t know if my seawall is approved or not?
Property owners may consult a lawyer with expertise in property law to determine whether historical approvals may apply to their property.
Back to question ⤴
What kind of plants should I use to maintain dunes on my property?
Council has provided a Guideline for dune and vegetation management(PDF, 2MB) that includes a list of native plant species that are suitable to the Beachmere area, and what part of the foreshore each species should be planted on.
Back to question ⤴
Where is the best place to buy native plants for my dunes?
Local nurseries that may supply native plants suitable for Beachmere dune management include:
Back to question ⤴
What’s the best way to plant and care for dune vegetation?
Follow-up watering requirements will depend on the site and weather conditions but may be required every day for one week following planting, twice per week for two weeks, then weekly for four weeks, as a minimum. Deep soaking is preferred over light watering to promote deep-rooting and should occur in the morning or late in the evening. As most dune plants are adapted to relatively nutrient-poor soils, there will probably be no need to use fertiliser beyond the initial planting.
Back to question ⤴
Is a seawall better or worse than dune and vegetation management?
The best choice depends on the circumstances of your individual property and your personal preferences. Seawalls provide a higher level of protection against storm surges and erosion but may also result in loss of sand in front of the seawall, as has already happened on Biggs Avenue. Vegetated dunes assist in beach recovery after erosion events and can also provide habitat for wildlife but are more susceptible to damage in severe weather events. Dune management may be less effective if your residence is less than 10 metres from the dune crest due to the limited space available for vegetation.
Back to question ⤴