Renewal of the Narrowneck Artificial Reef has started with 70 sand bags to be dropped on to the old reef.
Mayor Tom Tate said the reef had been an effective coastal protection asset since its construction in 1999.
“Like any infrastructure, the reef has a design life and requires renewal to ensure the structure continues to function and protect this vulnerable stretch of foreshore,” he said.
A specialised vessel will undertake the renewal works by placing the new sand bags, made of a more durable geotextile fabric, on the existing reef. Each bag is the size of a school bus so it is a challenging project but well worth it.
“While the primary purpose of the Narrowneck Artificial Reef is to function as a coastal protection structure, the City recognises the importance of surfing on the Gold Coast and has considered surfing outcomes when designing the renewal,” said Mayor Tate.
The artificial reef is designed to lessen erosion impacts of large waves. As these waves cross the reef, their intensity becomes less threatening to the beach. The reef promotes a build-up of sand near the structure and this sand acts as a buffer to protect the beach during storms.
Narrowneck Reef Renewal is a joint initiative of the City of Gold Coast, the Queensland Government and the Australian Government. The $2 million project is partly funded through the Natural Disaster Resilience Program, a joint State and Australian Government funding program.