Port Beach sand nourishment project complete

The ground-breaking Port Beach sand nourishment project is now complete.

In the latest and final stage of works, 150,000m³ of sand was dredged from Fremantle Port’s deep water channel during February and March and used to extend the beach. 

The Port Beach sand nourishment project is the first time ‘rainbowing’, a visually spectacular technique which involves the pumping of a mixture of dredged sand and water into a high arc through the air and onto the nearshore area, has been employed in Western Australia.

The project was a collaboration between City of Fremantle, Fremantle Ports and Department of Transport.

Works were completed in two stages, with an initial 92,400m³ of sand placed between July and October 2022.

Fremantle Mayor Hannah Fitzhardinge said the works were planned to provide protection against erosion for around 10 years—although this will depend on the weather patterns.

“This project has made a significant and visible difference to the beach, imagine filling a hole 150 metres long, 100 metres wide and 10 metres deep – that’s a lot of sand!

“The real test comes when we head into the winter months and brace for those strong storm fronts. We’ll be watching closely to monitor the effects of these works.

“We’ve still got work to do as we move towards the next step of this project, to undertake dune reestablishment and revegetation along Sandtrax, which we anticipate will be completed this autumn and winter.”

The impact of the sand nourishment project has been welcomed by beachgoers who also had the benefit of being able to access their favourite swimming venue throughout the project.

Port Beach Polar Bears president Suzette Felton said she was delighted that Port Beach has been restored to some of its former glory.

“Some of our members have been coming here for over 60 years when there was only a track to the beach. We have over 200 members ranging from 24 to 96 years old and Port beach is our home.

“We pride ourselves on what we have achieved and what our club means to so many people in our community. Without our beach, this would indeed be difficult to maintain.”

Bicton MLA Lisa O’Malley said it is wonderful to see this McGowan Government-funded, City of Fremantle partnered project provide up to 10 years of protection for Port Beach so many throughout our community can continue to enjoy this special place.

“I’m proud to have helped deliver $3.75 million towards the Port Beach sand nourishment project and the rehabilitation of one of Bicton’s much-loved beaches for seasons to come.

“I can’t wait to take the plunge again at one of Western Australia’s most iconic beaches alongside many regulars in our community.”

Fremantle Ports Manager Government and Public Relations Neil Stanbury said it was great that the project finished in time for the school holidays.

“As well as making the beach more enjoyable for users, the sand renourishment has operational advantages for us and our customers through maintenance of the shipping channel’s depth and ensuring a buffer for Port Beach Road access to Rous Head.”

The works will allow time for a longer-term planning process including the future of Fremantle Port. The City of Fremantle will continue to advocate for a managed retreat strategy, that includes the establishment of a broader foreshore reserve to retain a beach and amenities for the community.

Main image: L-R Polar Bears President Suzette Felton and Fremantle Mayor Hannah Fitzhardinge.