Photo: Pelicans on Swan Bay was taken by Bert Park.
A comprehensive study into the likely impacts of sea level rise on our community has significantly reduced the number of homes previously thought to be at risk of inundation. But the forecast remains worrying for properties in lowest lying areas including Fisherman’s Flat and Murray Road.
Bellarine MP Lisa Neville launched the Our Coast Project, undertaken by the Cardno Planning group, in recent days after months of detailed scientific assessments and modelling.
Queenscliffe, Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula are among four coastal regions studied.
It identifies inundation from sea level rise on the Fisherman’s Flat as the “over-riding hazard” for the Queenscliffe area.
Sections of the Bellarine Highway and Murray Road are also vulnerable, with a sea level rise of just 0.2 metres likely to impact on properties.
Overtopping and inundation also pose “a significant hazard” for the Point Lonsdale front beach now and in the future, according to the study.
“The seawall is regularly repaired to the effects of direct wave impact. Through time the incidence of damage due to wave impact is likely to increase, therefore continued maintenance and upkeep in this area is vital,” the report states.
"Dealing with the effects of climate change will arguably be the biggest coastal challenge coastal managers will face in the future," the document warns. "The effects of climate change are already becoming apparent, and will increase over time.
Recommendations for mitigating the local risks include establishment of a thorough monitoring program, beach profiling and groundwater monitoring.
“The next step in the coastal management process for the Bellarine will be to investigate the most at risk areas in terms of assets, both built and natural, and determine and prioritise mitigation actions,” it recommends.
The data is aimed at providing Councils and authorities as a guide for future planning and mitigation decisions.
“Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula are home to some of Victoria’s most beautiful and vibrant coastal communities, and residents like myself want to keep it that way,” said Ms Neville. “The popularity of this area is only going to grow over time.”
“By planning and preparing for the impacts of change climate now, we are helping ensure this area retains its unique and renowned coastal lifestyle for generations to come.”
The Borough will host a series of community open houses and workshops on Friday July 29 to better explain the report’s findings and the local impacts.
“The Our Coast initiative identifies future challenges and opportunities that rising sea levels may bring to our local shores. It is paramount that we raise awareness and work towards long-term climate resilience planning now to ensure preservation of our wonderful coastline for future generations”, said Mayor Helene Cameron.
“I strongly encourage residents to attend this session and take the opportunity to find out more about the latest data and be part of the planning, prioritising and implementing responses to climate change in our community.”
Sessions will be held between 2 and 8pm at the Queenscliff Town Hall
Bellarine MP Lisa Neville launched the Our Coast Project, undertaken by the Cardno Planning group, in recent days after months of detailed scientific assessments and modelling.
Queenscliffe, Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula are among four coastal regions studied.
It identifies inundation from sea level rise on the Fisherman’s Flat as the “over-riding hazard” for the Queenscliffe area.
Sections of the Bellarine Highway and Murray Road are also vulnerable, with a sea level rise of just 0.2 metres likely to impact on properties.
Overtopping and inundation also pose “a significant hazard” for the Point Lonsdale front beach now and in the future, according to the study.
“The seawall is regularly repaired to the effects of direct wave impact. Through time the incidence of damage due to wave impact is likely to increase, therefore continued maintenance and upkeep in this area is vital,” the report states.
"Dealing with the effects of climate change will arguably be the biggest coastal challenge coastal managers will face in the future," the document warns. "The effects of climate change are already becoming apparent, and will increase over time.
Recommendations for mitigating the local risks include establishment of a thorough monitoring program, beach profiling and groundwater monitoring.
“The next step in the coastal management process for the Bellarine will be to investigate the most at risk areas in terms of assets, both built and natural, and determine and prioritise mitigation actions,” it recommends.
The data is aimed at providing Councils and authorities as a guide for future planning and mitigation decisions.
“Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula are home to some of Victoria’s most beautiful and vibrant coastal communities, and residents like myself want to keep it that way,” said Ms Neville. “The popularity of this area is only going to grow over time.”
“By planning and preparing for the impacts of change climate now, we are helping ensure this area retains its unique and renowned coastal lifestyle for generations to come.”
The Borough will host a series of community open houses and workshops on Friday July 29 to better explain the report’s findings and the local impacts.
“The Our Coast initiative identifies future challenges and opportunities that rising sea levels may bring to our local shores. It is paramount that we raise awareness and work towards long-term climate resilience planning now to ensure preservation of our wonderful coastline for future generations”, said Mayor Helene Cameron.
“I strongly encourage residents to attend this session and take the opportunity to find out more about the latest data and be part of the planning, prioritising and implementing responses to climate change in our community.”
Sessions will be held between 2 and 8pm at the Queenscliff Town Hall