Coastal Erosion at our Southern Beaches

Our coastline is changing. Significant weather events, combined with long-term sea level rise, means that waves are reaching higher on the shoreline than in the past, exposing both bedrock and man-made structures more frequently.

The loss of sand that occurs in these scenarios significantly impacts both the appearance of the beach and our ability to enjoy beach activities.

We are in the process of developing the Southern Beaches Coastal Management Program (CMP) which covers the coastline from Nobbys Headland to Glenrock Lagoon. This Coastal Management Program is a long-term program of actions which can help us adapt to both immediate and future changes on our coast.

In the meantime, we're delivering staged rehabilitation work to address storm damage at Bar Beach and ensure minimal disruption to beach goers. The next phase of remediation work will concentrate on the southern end of the promenade adjoining Cooks Hills Surf Life Saving Club, including the reinstatement of a vehicle access ramp from Memorial Drive to the beach, and new stairs to enhance pedestrian access to the sand. A wave deflector wall topped with a new walkway and handrail will be constructed to help protect the surf club and provide pedestrian access across the front of the building.

Emergency works at Bar Beach were initially undertaken following the storm to enable use of the club house and facilities and provide temporary vehicular access to the beach. Further work was carried out in 2023, including the construction of a temporary beach access ramp and upgraded balustrade fencing to replace temporary water-filled barriers. 

Learn more about the coastal hazards that impact our coastline including a series of short videos.

Want to contribute to our understanding of these beaches?

You can take part by uploading your photos of this stretch of coastline via CoastSnap. CoastSnap NSW is a collaboration between UNSW Sydney, the NSW Government and City of Newcastle.

Simply follow the instructions shown on signage next to two dedicated phone cradles - one at Bar Beach and one at Merewether - or download the free CoastSnap app.