Action Urged to Fight Erosion

THE erosion works project at Waterman’s Beach has received a funding boost as debate continues over how best to address the problem.

Transport Minister Simon O’Brien last week pledged $250,000 toward erosion protection works. Mr O’Brien said his officers were available to advise council and get the project underway as soon as possible.

“We have arrangements in place with all coastal local governments where we can provide some emergency funding if the relevant council wants to match that and go into partnership to protect their portion of coastline.

Stirling really needs to make a decision to help resolve the situation,” he said.

City of Stirling engineering design manager Terence Pailing said the City would not apply to receive the funding until a decision on which option to select for the emergency protection works was reached.

Carine MLA Tony Krsticevic praised the City’s work in restricting sand loss at the beach throughout the winter months.

“The City of Stirling has done an amazing job in being able to control the situation so far, but now we need to get things back to normal,” he said.

“It’s critical for local governments to work in partnership with the State Government to make sure infrastructure is protected and facilities are managed so the community can enjoy the beaches.”

Mr Krsticevic said it was important for Stirling to consider the entire coastline when implementing its long-term strategy.

“You don’t want to be fixing one problem and creating another two problems up the coast,” he said.