first year the sand returned and it broke as well as ever. A second smaller barrier, called "little groyne" was later built a short distance north on Kirra beach. In 1995 30 metres was taken off Big Groyne to help fight erosion at Greenmount Beach. Both groynes have been almost completely covered by sand from the sand pumping. In 2001 the Tweed River sand bypass project commenced By 2003 Little Groyne was completely buried in sand. In 2006 Griffith University Coastal Management Center launch a project to restore the beach. Environment There have been environmental effects of the sand pumping on the reef. A popular diving area with sea-life including manta rays and wobbegongs has been buried over since the pumping started. Dive companies have relocated or turned their focus to other smaller reef areas. The sand pumping contract held on the area is in place until 2024, when the contract will be re-evaluated. References External links Kirra beach camera at the University of New South Wales coastal imaging Tweed River Entrance Sand Byapssing Project Surfing locations in Queensland Coolangatta