Sand pumping is set to return at a popular Sunshine Coast beach a year early.
Sand at Maroochydore Beach is usually replenished every two years as the beach generally loses more sand than it gains.
It was bolstered last year but due to its current depleted condition Sunshine Coast Council has decided it can’t wait another 12 months to start routine nourishment.
A sand pumping program won’t restore sand levels to what they were before Tropical Cyclone Alfred but Council said it will help strengthen the beach and provide better protection against erosion during the summer months.
It is expected about 50,000m3 of sand – enough to fill the equivalent of 5,000 trucks – will be pumped in from the lower Maroochy River.
The sand pumping program, which will run from June to September, will place sand in eroded areas between the Maroochydore and Alex Surf Clubs.
It may run through the winter school holidays but Council said it will work closely with both Surf Lifesaving Clubs, Surf Lifesaving Queensland and business owners in the area to manage disruption to the community and holidaymakers.
Beach access will still be available around the construction site and lifesavers will be stationed at the dredge site in Cotton Tree for public safety.
