Contribute to study into future coastal changes

Coastal environments under pressure from rising sea levels and erosion will come under the spotlight in a community survey exploring residents’ connections with the region’s coastline.

Residents of the Cairns region are invited to share their views and what they value about the coastal environment as part of the Our Cairns Coast project.

The project will deliver a strategic approach to managing future coastal changes relating to erosion, storm tide inundation and sea level rise throughout the next 80 years.

Division 9 Councillor Brett Olds said the survey would remain open until 30 June and encouraged residents to take part.

“We want to hear about how our community uses the coast, what they value most about it and what characteristics are most important now and in the future,” Cr Olds said.

“Locals know our coastline best and the information they share will help us plan for future resilience across the region.

“As well as the survey, we’ll have information stalls where people can find out more about the project and contribute their feedback.”

The survey will also allow residents to share personal insights into coastal changes they have observed.

“We’d particularly like to hear from residents whose properties, business interests or way of life have been affected by coastal events,” Cr Olds said.

The Our Cairns Coast project is being delivered by Council with funding under the Queensland Government’s QCoast2100 program.

Council has received $500,000 in funding towards an eight-phase, multi-year project that will help to minimise potential future risks from long-term coastal changes.

“Storm tides, sea level rise and erosion are part of living on the Queensland coast, so it is important to take steps now to address these natural processes here in Cairns,” Cr Olds said.

“This project goes beyond the work we already do to manage and care for our coastline. In doing so, it will help Council, other government agencies and local communities to make better informed decisions on how to protect our much-loved coastal areas.

“There is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to coastal hazard adaptation, and not all impacts can be prevented. But this project will develop practical strategies to help minimise the effects.”

In undertaking the QCoast2100 program, Cairns joins 31 other Queensland coastal councils that are developing their own adaptation plans.

Council will hold community information stalls at the Palm Cove markets on 7 April, Holloways Beach markets on 14 April, Tanks Arts Centre markets on 28 April and ECOFiesta on 2 June.

The online survey is now open and can be accessed online at www.cairns.qld.gov.au/ourcairnscoast.