Colac Otway Calls for Urgent Government Investment to Coastal Erosion

Published on 22 May 2020

Colac Otway Shire is calling on the State Government to commit $4.3 million to urgently address coastal erosion which is severely impacting the coastline in and around Apollo Bay.

Colac Otway Mayor Cr Jason Schram said Council had been advocating for government action on coastal erosion for several years and the need for immediate work was now critical before more infrastructure was damaged by storm surges.

“We are advocating on behalf of DELWP, as the responsible authority for the coastline, to protect our shire and our community,” Cr Schram said.

“Council has written to Ministers for Environment and Tourism calling for their support.

“Colac Otway Shire’s coastline continues to be eroded by storm surges, impacting our environment and damaging or threatening walking paths, car parks and the Great Ocean Road itself.

“To protect our environment, our economy and our community along this internationally significant coastline, we must carry out major works and implement

“Council worked in partnership with DELWP in 2017 on stage one of a Local Coastal Hazard Assessment, which identified the infrastructure and vulnerable environment under threat from storm surges, inundation and erosion along the coastline in and around Apollo Bay.

“The next step of the assessment involves working with a coastal hydrology and marine engineer to undertake detailed designs and specifications, including inundation and erosion modelling, for identified priority works including project procurement, estimated to cost about $300,000,” he said.

“An investment by the State Government of approximately $4 million will then be needed to implement urgent work such as the extension of stormwater outlets to minimise erosion.

“We look forward to the State Government’s support in addressing coastal erosion and protecting Apollo Bay and surrounding communities.”