$2.5 million to combat erosion at Clifton Beach

Council has approved the $2.5 million construction of three breakwaters at Clifton Beach to provide longer term protection of the foreshore and reduce sand loss.

The rock structures, which will be about 28m x 18m in size, will be constructed on the shoreline and aim to trap sand being transported north along Clifton Beach to reduce long-term erosion and lessen the need for regular sand nourishment programs.

The State Government has committed $985,300 of funding to this project under the Coastal and Estuarine Risk Mitigation Program (CERMP).

The impacts of ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper highlighted the fragility and dynamic nature of Cairns’ northern beaches, reinforcing the value and urgency of additional coastal protection.

The severe weather event contributed to the erosion of sand from sections of the northern beaches resulting in the loss of vegetation and damage to roads, paths, retaining walls and public amenities.

Construction of the breakwaters is scheduled to be finished by 28 March 2025, with sand nourishment to occur following their completion.