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The Gold Coast is one of Australia’s best-known examples of long-term coastal management. Its beaches support tourism, recreation, public infrastructure, private property and internationally recognised surf breaks. They also sit within a highly dynamic coastal system shaped by storms, waves, currents and longshore sand transport. Managing this coastline has required more than one project or one type of coastal structure. Over several decades, the Gold Coast has used beach nourishment, nearshore nourishment, sand bypassing, dune management and artificial reefs as part of an adaptive coastal management strategy. ICM’s experience on the Gold Coast draws on this long-term evidence base, including early nearshore nourishment trials, multi-purpose artificial reef design, beach monitoring and the use of nourishment to support both erosion management and coastal amenity. These initiatives were spearheaded by the efforts of ICM's founder Angus Jackson in the early 80's (as the Gold Coast City's Coastal Engineer) and subsequently by International Coastal Management (ICM). Source: Gold Coast City Why the Gold Coast Needed a Long-Term Coastal Management Strategy The Gold Coast experienced major erosion events during the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s. These events exposed the vulnerability of a developed coastline where beaches play a central role in recreation, tourism, public access and coastal protection. Early beach nourishment campaigns helped demonstrate that adding sand to the system could improve beach width and buffer capacity. However, large-scale onshore nourishment could be costly, disruptive and difficult to maintain without a long-term sand management strategy. This led to a more integrated approach. The focus shifted from reactive measures to proactive, long-term strategies. The idea was not just to combat erosion but to enhance the coastline's recreational and ecological value looking at more nature based solutions. This forward-thinking approach set the stage for innovations like artificial reefs, structures designed to promote sand accumulation and dissipate wave energy, reducing erosion. A Pilot Approach One of the strengths of the Gold Coast approach has been the use of piloting and monitoring to guide future works. With this proactive plan, the area became what could be called a full-scale coastal laboratory. With each project, monitoring and feedback loops were set up so that real-world results could be used to guide future projects. Because of this commitment to solutions based on facts, the Gold Coast has become known around the world as a model for smart and flexible coastal management. Key Gold Coast Projects and What They Show A series of landmark projects paved the path of the Gold Coast's transformation: The North Gold Coast Beach Protection Strategy The North Gold Coast Beach Protection Strategy was a major coastal management program delivered between 1997 and 2001 to widen and protect the northern Gold Coast beaches. The strategy combined beach nourishment, completion of the boulder wall, ongoing maintenance nourishment and the construction of a nearshore artificial reef at Narrowneck. The project is important because it shows how artificial reefs and nourishment can be planned together as part of an integrated coastal protection strategy. ICM managed key project elements including design studies, impact assessment, engineering design and implementation. The project also included physical and numerical modelling, environmental management planning and monitoring to assess performance over time. Narrowneck Artificial Reef Narrowneck Artificial Reef was designed as a multi-purpose artificial reef, with coastal protection and surf amenity objectives. The reef was constructed using geotextile sand containers, which were approximately 1/3 the cost of a rock reef construction. This cost-effective approach was consistent with the pilot nature of the project. Long-term monitoring has shown geomorphological changes to littoral sand drift. This has caused a buildup of sand around the reef, helping to reduce erosion and offering added surf benefits on sandbanks. The project remains an important reference point for multi-purpose artificial reef design because it shows how a reef can be designed to influence sand movement, reduce erosion risk and support surf amenity without fully blocking natural coastal processes. Key Outcomes: Demonstrated successful use of geotextile sandbags, offering cost-effective reef construction. Induced geomorphological changes, leading to sand build-up around the reef. Reduced coastal erosion and enhanced surfing conditions due to formed sandbanks. Provided lessons that informed later artificial reef projects. A 20-year scientific review of Narrowneck Reef found that the reef has had a localised influence on nearshore morphology and has helped maintain the beach in a more stable condition than before construction. The review also found that sand transport can occur both inshore and offshore of the reef, depending on wave conditions. This is important because it shows that a multi-purpose artificial reef can influence sediment movement without preventing sand from continuing through the coastal system. Sand Bypassing Systems at the Nerang and Tweed Rivers Sand bypassing has been central to the Gold Coast’s long-term sand management strategy. At tidal entrances such as the Nerang River and Tweed River, training walls and entrance works can interrupt natural longshore sand transport. Bypassing systems help move sand past these entrances so it can continue feeding downdrift beaches. These systems also support navigation by managing sand accumulation near entrances and channels. On the southern Gold Coast, sand bypassing has also contributed to well-known surf outcomes, including the Superbank and South Stradbroke Island. These systems not only ensured uninterrupted sand delivery to nourish southern beaches but also played a pivotal role in mitigating erosion. Key outcomes: Supported the continuation of longshore sand transport past trained entrances. Helped manage sand accumulation near navigation channels and entrances. Improved navigational access Provided a long-term sand supply mechanism for beaches. Enhanced surf conditions at iconic spots like the Superbank and South Stradbroke Island. Source: Gold Coast City Palm Beach Artificial Reef (PBAR) Palm Beach Artificial Reef was completed in 2019 and was informed by lessons from Narrowneck Reef and previous nourishment works. The reef was designed to contribute to coastal protection while also supporting surf amenity where conditions allow. Monitoring has shown the development of sandbank surf breaks around the reef, including waves associated with sand movement and reef influence. Surveys have also indicated that nourished sand has remained within the Palm Beach system, enhancing the coastal landscape and supporting its recreational potential. Key Outcomes: Used monitoring results from Narrowneck for informed design and implementation. Wave Peel Tracking (WPT) indicated the development of desirable sandbank surf breaks around the reef. Ongoing surveys showed retained nourished sand around the reef, indicating long-term effectiveness. Aerial of sand build up and interruption around reef The 2017 Gold Coast Beach Nourishment Project (GCBNP) The 2017 Gold Coast Beach Nourishment Project placed more than 3 million cubic metres of sand along vulnerable sections of the Gold Coast coastline. The project used nearshore nourishment to deliver large volumes efficiently, with sand placed offshore where waves and currents could move it through the active beach system over time. At Palm Beach, survey results five years after implementation indicated that around 75% of the nourished sand remained within the system. This outcome is important because Palm Beach has historically been one of the Gold Coast’s more erosion-prone beaches. The result reflects the value of combining nourishment, reef design and monitoring within a broader coastal management strategy. Rather than treating nourishment as a stand-alone campaign, the Gold Coast approach has used repeated monitoring and adaptive design to improve long-term performance. This project was built on decades of research and development in the field of mass nourishment, led by Angus Jackson and ICM. Key Outcomes: Successfully added over 3 million cubic meters of sand to vulnerable beach sections. Five-year post-implementation surveys revealed 75% of nourished sand at Palm Beach still within the system. Proved the combined efficacy of nearshore nourishment and the Palm Beach reef, retaining sand even after significant storm events. Key Lessons from the Gold Coast The Gold Coast experience highlights several lessons for coastal managers considering nearshore nourishment, artificial reefs or integrated coastal protection strategies. Monitoring is essential. Coastal works need to be assessed over time, not judged only by the immediate post-construction beach condition. Nourishment and structures can work together. Artificial reefs can influence wave breaking, sediment pathways and local sand retention when designed for the right site. Understand sand systems. Nearshore nourishment can be an effective way to work with nature - sand is placed where waves and currents can move it through the beach profile. Surf amenity can be part of the design brief. On the Gold Coast, reef and nourishment projects have shown that coastal protection can also consider recreation outcomes. There is no single solution for every beach. The best outcomes come from understanding the sediment budget, wave climate, community values, asset risk and long-term management objectives. What This Means for Other Coastal Communities The Gold Coast shows that coastal resilience is built over time. Nearshore nourishment, artificial reefs and sand bypassing are most effective when they are planned as part of a wider coastal management strategy and supported by monitoring. For other coastal communities, the lesson is not to copy the Gold Coast exactly. Every site has different wave conditions, sand sources, coastal processes, environmental constraints, community values and asset risks. The value of the Gold Coast experience is that it shows how evidence, staged delivery and adaptive management can improve long-term outcomes. ICM supports councils, agencies and coastal asset owners with feasibility studies, concept design, detailed design, approvals support, nourishment planning, artificial reef design and monitoring programs for complex coastal environments. Acknowledgements ICM acknowledges the City of Gold Coast and the many coastal managers, researchers, consultants and contractors who have contributed to the Gold Coast’s long-term coastal management program. The success of these projects reflects decades of monitoring, practical decision-making, design refinement and collaboration across government, industry and research partners.

Artificial headlands are an increasingly important coastal protection option for managing erosion on open coast shorelines. For beachfront communities, councils, resort owners and infrastructure managers, coastal erosion remains one of the most persistent challenges. Sand is rarely static. It moves along the coast under wave action, shifts offshore during storms, returns during calmer conditions and responds continuously to changes in wave climate, sea level, storms, entrances, training walls, seawalls, groynes and other coastal structures. For many decades, coastal protection relied heavily on linear hard structures such as seawalls, revetments and groynes. These assets still have an important role, particularly where infrastructure is already at risk. However, many coastal managers are now seeking solutions that do more than hold a line. They want sustainable coastal protection that can retain beach amenity, reduce erosion risk, support recreation, improve public access and work with nature by responding more effectively with natural coastal processes. Artificial headlands are one of the options in this space. An artificial headland is an engineered coastal structure designed to mimic some of the stabilising functions of a natural headland. Rather than acting as a simple barrier, a well-designed artificial headland influences wave transformation, longshore sediment transport, beach plan shape and sand retention. It can help create a more stable beach compartment, support nourishment longevity and provide new public or ecological value. At International Coastal Management, artificial headlands have been part of our coastal protection research and design thinking since the early 1990s. Artificial headlands can be used as a multi-functional coastal protection solution that provides advantages over more traditional structures when designed by experienced coastal engineers. However, they are complex coastal systems. Modelling is essential, but it can oversimplify the design if it is not informed by coastal engineering judgement, field evidence, sediment behaviour, storm response and local knowledge. The strongest artificial headland designs combine numerical modelling with practical experience, monitoring data and a clear understanding of how the beach is likely to respond over time. What is an artificial headland? An artificial headland is a purpose-designed coastal structure that projects from, or is connected to, the shoreline to influence waves, currents and sediment movement. It is typically constructed from rock and backfilled with sand, or concrete armour units or hybrid materials, depending on the site conditions, environmental setting, design life and construction constraints. Artificial headlands are designed to replicate selected functions of natural rocky headlands. Natural headlands protrude through the beach profile and interact with littoral transport, wave refraction, wave diffraction and beach alignment. Coastal headlands are features that act like “valves” regulating sediment transport and influencing the plan shape of the beach. Their performance depends on seaward protrusion, shape, orientation, wave climate, material, sediment budget and grain size. Artificial headlands may be: Emergent headlands, which are visible above the water level and function more like natural rocky points. Low-crested or partially submerged headlands, which reduce visual impact while still influencing wave energy, currents and sediment movement. Hybrid headland systems, where a headland is combined with beach nourishment, artificial reefs, submerged berms, groynes, public space, habitat features or backpassing systems. The right arrangement depends on the coastal setting. A headland designed for beach stabilisation in a high-energy open coast setting will differ from one designed for a sheltered resort beach, surf amenity, marina protection or public foreshore renewal. How artificial headlands help manage coastal erosion Artificial headlands do not create sand. This is an important point. A headland changes how sand moves, where it is retained and how the beach responds to wave conditions. For this reason, artificial headlands are often most effective when designed as part of a wider sediment management strategy, including beach nourishment or sand backpassing. There are three main ways artificial headlands can support coastal protection. 1. Regulating longshore sediment transport On many sandy coasts, waves approach the shoreline at an angle. This generates longshore currents that move sand along the beach. Where there is a strong net direction of sediment transport, beaches may erode if sediment supply is interrupted, reduced or unable to keep pace with losses. A headland can slow or partially interrupt this transport, allowing sand to accumulate on the updrift side. This is sometimes compared with the effect of a groyne, but the processes are more complex, intentionally letting some sand bypass the structure. Headland shape, width, crest elevation, seaward extent and orientation all influence how sand moves around the structure. Headlands can stabilise beaches by suppressing longshore transport currents, with updrift benefit depending on the size of the feature relative to the surf zone width. The headland shape affects whether sediment is blocked, redirected, bypassed or moved through more complex circulation pathways. This is why artificial headlands should not be treated as standard catalogue structures. A headland that is too small may have limited effect. A headland that is too large may interrupt bypassing, increase downdrift sediment deficits or create unintended erosion patterns. 2. Influencing wave refraction and diffraction As waves approach a headland, they bend, spread and interact with the structure. For larger headland systems, wave diffraction can also influence the equilibrium plan shape of the beach. This can lead to a zeta-curve, also known as a headland-bay beach shape. This form is related to the point of diffraction and predominant wave direction, and may develop on both sides of a structure or mainly downdrift depending on wave angle and headland alignment. For design, this matters because the shoreline response is not only a function of structure length. It is also controlled by the relationship between the structure, wave approach, sediment pathways and the natural beach compartment. 3. Creating a more stable beach compartment Artificial headlands can help define smaller beach compartments within longer open coast systems. This can improve the performance of beach nourishment by reducing the rate at which placed sand disperses alongshore. For communities investing in nourishment, this can be particularly valuable. Nourishment alone can provide immediate beach width and storm buffer, but on high-energy coastlines sand may continue to move away from the placement area. A headland can help increase the residence time of nourished sand, improving the value of the nourishment campaign and supporting longer-term beach stability. This is one reason headlands are increasingly considered as part of integrated coastal resilience strategies rather than as stand-alone structures. Artificial headlands compared with groynes and seawalls Artificial headlands are often discussed alongside groynes, seawalls, breakwaters and artificial reefs. Each option has a different role. A seawall protects landward assets by resisting waves, but it does not usually restore a beach by itself. If fronting beach levels fall, wave exposure at the wall can increase erosion. The impacts of a seawall depend heavily on its position within the beach system. Terminal seawalls, such as those used on the Gold Coast, are typically buried within the dune system and only exposed during severe erosion events. In this context, they can provide major protection benefits without the same adverse beach impacts often associated with seawalls located too far seaward. A groyne interrupts longshore sediment transport and can trap sand on the updrift side, but may increase downdrift erosion if not designed with sediment supply in mind. A key difference between headland and groyne is that the headland is designed to allow some sand to bypass and can also be used as a multi functional asset (public space). A detached breakwater reduces wave energy in its lee and can form a salient or tombolo, but it may affect water circulation, visual amenity, navigation and beach shape. An artificial reef can reduce wave energy, influence surf amenity and support habitat, but its shoreline response depends heavily on crest level, geometry, wave climate and sediment supply. An artificial headland can combine elements of several of these approaches. It can provide a control point for beach alignment, influence waves and sediment transport, support public use and potentially integrate ecological or recreational functions. This multi-functional role is one of the main reasons artificial headlands are attractive. However, it is also why they require careful design. They are not a low-risk shortcut. They are complex coastal engineering structures that need site-specific modelling, sediment budget assessment and staged implementation planning. Nourishment plays a key role when used in combination with artificial headlands, as the presence of a headland can help retain nourished material on the beach for a longer period. By strategically placing nourishment in conjunction with a headland, communities can enhance the longevity of their investment and achieve more sustainable shoreline management. Key design considerations for artificial headlands A successful artificial headland begins with a clear understanding of the coastal process problem. Is the issue chronic erosion, storm bite, longshore sediment deficit, poor nourishment retention, entrance instability, loss of public beach width, surf amenity decline, or risk to landward assets? Once the problem is defined, the design must consider several core parameters. Headland size and seaward extent The size of the headland affects how strongly it influences sediment transport and wave transformation. Larger headlands may provide greater updrift stabilisation, but they can also increase downdrift impacts or make sediment bypassing more intermittent. Headland size is an important factor in both updrift beach widening and the nature and timescale of sediment bypassing. There is also a need to consider whether bypassing occurs regularly or only during larger wave events. This is a critical design issue. A headland that traps sand too effectively may starve downdrift beaches. A headland that allows uncontrolled bypassing may not provide enough stabilisation benefit. Headland shape and orientation Headland geometry controls the way waves interact with the structure. Sharp ends can create stronger diffraction effects, eddies and local scour. Rounded ends can reduce some of these effects and support safer, more natural sediment bypassing pathways. Rounding breakwater ends into a more natural headland shape can improve sediment bypassing, reduce downdrift erosion shadow risk, reduce the chance of sediment moving into deeper inactive areas and improve swimmer safety by reducing eddy risks. The ideal shape is not always the most visually obvious one. It must respond to the dominant and extreme wave directions, the local surf zone width, the design beach alignment and the required level of sediment retention. Sediment budget and nourishment requirements Because artificial headlands redistribute sand rather than create it, the sediment budget is central to design. The coastal engineering team must understand existing longshore transport rates, cross-shore storm demand, beach recovery behaviour, sediment grain size, sources of compatible nourishment material and potential downdrift effects. In many cases, artificial headlands should be paired with beach nourishment. This allows the system to be “pre-filled” so that the headland does not rely on capturing sand from adjacent beaches. Storm performance and design life Artificial headlands must be designed for both daily coastal processes and extreme storm events. This includes armour stability, toe protection, overtopping, wave setup, scour, settlement, constructability and safe access. For public-facing headlands, the design must also consider how people will interact with the structure. This may include beach access, viewing areas, surf lifesaving operations, maintenance access, public safety, signage, fall risk and emergency response. Downdrift impacts and bypassing strategy One of the most important questions for any artificial headland is: what happens downdrift? Headland bypassing can occur regularly, intermittently or only during high-energy events. Bypassing around large headlands may occur in pulses or “slugs”, and downdrift beaches can experience short to medium-term sediment deficits when bypassing is inhibited. For an artificial headland project, this means downdrift management should be designed from the start. Options may include nourishment, sand backpassing, adaptive monitoring triggers or staged construction. Surfing, recreation and public amenity Artificial headlands can also create recreational benefits when designed in the right setting. Natural headlands are associated with some of the world’s best surf breaks because they can influence wave peeling, sandbar shape and wave refraction. However, surf outcomes should not be assumed. Surf amenity requires the headland to act as a meaningful control point for the surf bar, with enough differential in bar position and beach alignment to allow wave refraction and peeling. Detailed modelling is needed before claiming surf benefits. This is an important message for coastal communities. Artificial headlands may support surf and recreation, but only when the geometry, wave climate, sediment response and design objectives align. Where artificial headlands are most suitable Artificial headlands may be suitable where: A sandy open coast beach is experiencing chronic erosion. Beach nourishment alone is unlikely to provide sufficient sand retention. There is a need to create or strengthen a beach compartment. Public amenity, recreation and coastal protection need to be delivered together. A seawall-only response would protect assets but reduce beach value over time. There is enough space to design the headland without unacceptable downdrift effects. Sand management measures can be implemented as part of the wider project. They may be less suitable where there is limited sediment supply, highly constrained downdrift assets, unacceptable ecological impacts, poor foundation conditions, navigation conflicts or insufficient space for a stable shoreline response. ICM’s experience with artificial headlands ICM has a long history of working with artificial headlands, artificial reefs, beach nourishment, sand bypassing, coastal structures and open coast adaptation. Our team has developed a technical note on The Added Value of Headlands for Coastal Protection, alongside decades of related coastal engineering publications. ICM’s work has included headland and reef concepts for high-energy open coast environments, including the RE:BEACH Oceanside design, where artificial headlands are being developed with an offshore artificial reef and targeted nourishment to improve shoreline stability, beach amenity and surf outcomes, and a review of natural headlands, control structures and artificial headland configurations for the Gold Coast. The future of artificial headlands in coastal resilience As sea levels rise and coastal communities face increasing pressure, artificial headlands are likely to become a more important part of the coastal adaptation toolkit. They offer the potential to combine protection, beach amenity, recreation, ecological value and public space in a single integrated design. However, their value depends on careful application. A successful artificial headland is not simply a rock structure placed into the surf zone. It is a coastal process intervention that must be designed around wave climate, sediment transport, beach morphology, storm response, public use, environmental constraints and long-term maintenance. For councils, developers and coastal asset owners, the key question is not simply “Will an artificial headland stop erosion?” A better question is: Can an artificial headland help create a more stable, usable and resilient beach system at this specific site? When the answer is yes, artificial headlands may provide an alternative to traditional coastal protection. For ICM, this is where the real value sits: designing coastal infrastructure that does more than resist the ocean. It works with coastal processes to create longer-term resilience for beaches, communities and coastal assets.

Holloways and Clifton Beaches in Cairns have faced ongoing erosion for decades, threatening public infrastructure, parklands, and essential roads. ICM provided innovative erosion management solutions that maintained beach access and public use along the foreshore. Project details Client: Cairns Regional Council Date: 2024 Location: Clifton Beach & Holloways Beach, Cairns, Far North Queensland About this project: The Challenge: Holloways and Clifton Beaches experienced severe erosion, leading to the loss of vegetation and the risk of damage to critical public assets. Traditional erosion control methods posed challenges in balancing cost, environmental impact, and public accessibility. The Solution: ICM conducted a detailed design process to identify the most effective erosion management solution. Through options assessment and cost-benefit analysis, a nearshore breakwater design was selected. This approach combined nature-based principles with low-impact, cost-efficient engineering. The design process included: Use of the GenCADE sediment transport model to assess beach stabilisation and impacts. Evaluation of multiple structure types, including groynes, breakwaters, and artificial reefs, using diverse materials such as geotextile structures and pre-cast concrete. Calibration based on similar structures at Ellis Beach to optimise performance and recreational outcomes. ICM also prepared detailed technical specifications, safety plans, and an Adaptive Management Plan to address future coastal risks and monitoring requirements. “Our tailored approach ensures coastal protection solutions that work with nature, safeguarding public infrastructure while enhancing community access and sustainability.” - Sam King, Project Lead, International Coastal Management Services provided Options Analysis & Cost-Benefit Analysis Concept & Detailed Design Technical Specifications & Safety in Design Approvals & Grant Funding Application Assistance Graphics Rendering for Community Consultation Adaptive Management Planning Get in touch At International Coastal Management, we have over 40 years of experience in designing and implementing coastal erosion solutions. From emergency erosion solutions to permanent beach stabilisation, our expertise ensures you’ll have a customised approach that maximises resilience. Contact us today to see what solution would be a good fit for your coastal protection project.

ICM leads in coastal engineering Australia, offering tailored solutions for coastal resilience, protection, marina development, and sustainable coastal management. Coastal Engineering Australia Your Trusted Partner for Resilient Coastal Solutions International Coastal Management (ICM) is a leader in coastal engineering in Australia, trusted by private developers, local governments, and industries for over 40 years. With 1200+ successful projects and a team grounded in practical yet innovative approaches, ICM is your go-to partner for designing resilient, environmentally-friendly coastal solutions tailored specifically for Australia’s unique coastlines. With offices in the Gold Coast, Melbourne, and remote teams across Australia, we provide local expertise backed by a global perspective, ensuring each project respects both technical standards and natural ecosystems. To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key. Approved Local Buy Supplier International Coastal Management is an approved Local Buy supplier under LB312 Engineering & Environmental Consultancy Services and LB343 Project Management & Superintendency Services, providing councils and eligible buyers with a pre-qualified pathway to engage specialist coastal and marine engineering support. Specialised , High-Value Solutions We take on a select number of projects to ensure every client receives our full attention and bespoke strategies. This personalised approach guarantees the highest quality results, designed specifically to meet your unique coastal challenges. Innovative & Sustainable Design We go beyond traditional methods, using cutting-edge, nature-based solutions that are environmentally responsible and cost-effective. Our long track record of successful projects and expertise in coastal engineering sets us apart and drives long-term results. End-to-End Service & Partnership From initial consultation to post-construction monitoring, we guide you through every phase of your project. We’re not just consultants—we’re your partners, ensuring seamless project delivery and ongoing success. Our Coastal Engineering Australia Services We provide a full spectrum of services to support Australia’s coastal resilience, from offshore artificial reefs, to beach nourishment, artificial headlands and coastal monitoring. Here’s how we can support your project: Coastal Protection & Erosion Control Robust protection strategies to manage coastal erosion and safeguard vulnerable coastlines. Learn more Nature Based Solutions & Reefs Integrating ecological processes with engineering expertise for coastal protection and habitat creation. Learn more Marinas & Waterfront Development Specialist infrastructure for high-value marine, port and recreational assets. Learn more Coastal Engineering & Design Comprehensive design and project management for coastal and marine infrastructure, Learn more Coastal Resilience & Adaptation Adapt to climate risks with proactive planning and specialist coastal resilience solutions. Learn more Expert Witness, Advice & Review Independent expert advice, technical reviews, and legal support for coastal matters. Learn more Our Process: Delivering High-Quality Coastal Engineering Solutions 1 Consultation & Planning We assess your goals, gather data, and develop a project strategy tailored to your coastal environment. 2 Engineering & Design Our experienced team designs solutions that are functional, sustainable, and adaptive to future challenges. 3 Project Management We manage every phase of the project, from securing regulatory approvals to coordinating resources for efficient execution. 4 Monitoring & Support Post-project, we provide continuous monitoring and support, ensuring long-term success and resilience. Australian Regulatory Approvals Made Simple Many coastal projects in Queensland and across Australia require RPEQ-certified reports to demonstrate compliance with coastal hazard overlay codes. Our team of RPEQ-certified coastal engineers specialises in providing: ✔ Coastal Hazard Assessments for planning approvals ✔ Engineering Reports for seawalls, revetments, and erosion protection ✔ Regulatory Compliance Support for local council approvals and coastal overlays Learn more - Gold Coast City Office of the Mayor The famous beaches of the Gold Coast are one of the city's greatest assets and require considerable management expertise and innovation to maintain their pristine condition and sustainability (…) Major beach nourishment works and the construction of an artificial reef (…) was undertaken by Council utilising the services of International Coastal Management. The success of the NGBPS after five years of operational service is testimony to the value and benefit of this evolving coastal solution technology. Coastal Engineering Australia Projects ICM’s portfolio showcases our dedication to sustainable coastal solutions across diverse environments in Australia: Bribie Island Emergency Works - Tidal Closure Great Sandy Strait Shellfish Restoration Project Joondalup Alternative Coastal Adaptation Options View more Leading in Coastal Engineering Research & Education ICM is at the forefront of coastal engineering research, partnering with universities and government agencies to advance nature-based coastal solutions, climate adaptation strategies, and marine engineering innovations. Our team collaborates with Griffith University’s Coastal and Marine Research Centre, where ICM’s Bobbie Corbett lectures on Coastal Resilience as part of the university’s Coastal Engineering and Studies Program . Our directors also serve on expert panels and committees, including the National Committee on Coastal and Ocean Engineering and the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development. Let’s Create Your Coastal Solution Ready to take your coastal project to the next level? ICM’s services deliver unmatched value and expertise for coastal engineering needs across Australia’s beaches, waterfronts, and offshore projects. Our commitment to data collection, design, and modelling ensures that each project not only meets current needs but also anticipates future challenges. Contact us today to discuss how we can support your coastal project Contact Us Interested in a career in coastal engineering? ICM is always looking for coastal passionate engineers to join our growing team. Visit Our Careers Page Coastal Engineering Australia Jobs

Specialist coastal engineering consultants for the Pacific, supporting erosion management, marine infrastructure, dredging, coastal protection and nature-based solutions. Coastal Engineering Consultants for the Pacific ICM has spent 37 years engineering durable, nature-aligned coastlines in the world's most challenging island environments - Maldives atolls, Caribbean hurricane zones, tropical Australia. SPEAK TO OUR TEAM VIEW SERVICES Years In Operation 37+ Reached 23 Countries 1300+ Projects Delivered INDEPENDENT & ACCREDITED CPENG Chartered Engineers RPEQ Registered UN Expert Panelists NCCOE Committee Member Practical coastal engineering for island, reef, harbour and waterfront environments International Coastal Management provides specialist coastal engineering services across the Pacific, supporting governments, councils, development partners, contractors, resorts and coastal communities to plan, design and deliver resilient coastal and marine infrastructure. From erosion management and coastal protection to marine infrastructure, dredging, reef design, shoreline stabilisation and nature-based solutions, our team develops practical solutions for dynamic and sensitive coastal environments. With experience across island, reef, estuarine and open coast settings, ICM understands the unique challenges facing Pacific communities, including sea level rise, cyclone exposure, coastal erosion, limited construction access, constrained budgets, environmental sensitivity and the need for long-term community value. Core Service Areas Designed for Impact, Tailored for You Coastal Protection & Erosion Control Robust protection strategies to manage coastal erosion and safeguard vulnerable coastlines. Learn more Nature Based Solutions & Reefs Integrating ecological processes with engineering expertise for coastal protection and habitat creation. Learn more Marinas & Waterfront Development Specialist infrastructure for high-value marine, port and recreational assets. Learn more Coastal Engineering & Design Comprehensive design and project management for coastal and marine infrastructure, Learn more Coastal Resilience & Adaptation Adapt to climate risks with proactive planning and specialist coastal resilience solutions. Learn more Expert Witness, Advice & Review Independent expert advice, technical reviews, and legal support for coastal matters. Learn more Our Approach HOW WE WORK ICM can enter at any stage, or support the full lifecycle from initial feasibility to post-construction sign-off. 01 Understand the site Assess local coastal processes - waves, water levels, currents, sediment movement and the influence of reefs, structures and dredged areas. 02 Define the problem Work with clients to understand what needs to be protected, what values must be maintained and what success looks like. 03 Develop options Compare engineering, nature-based and hybrid options, considering performance, cost, construction access and future adaptability. 04 Design for delivery Consider how the works will be built, what materials are available, what equipment can access the site, and how the project can be staged. 05 Support implementation Assist through approvals, tendering, construction supervision, certification and post-construction monitoring. Decades of coastal engineering experience, delivered practically WHY ICM ICM brings extensive experience across Australia, the Pacific, the Middle East, the Americas and island environments. Our team has delivered coastal protection, reef, nourishment, dredging and marine infrastructure projects in complex settings where practical delivery matters as much as design. We focus on solutions that are buildable, maintainable and suited to the real constraints of remote and island environments. WHAT CLIENTS VALUE ✓ Specialist coastal and marine engineering knowledge ✓ Practical, buildable solutions for remote and island sites ✓ Experience with nature-based and hybrid approaches ✓ Strong understanding of reef, estuary and lagoon systems ✓ Support from concept through to construction and monitoring ✓ Flexible advice for government, donor-funded and private projects ✓ A focus on long-term resilience, not short-term fixes Talk to ICM about coastal engineering in the Pacific If you are planning a coastal, marine, dredging, harbour, reef or shoreline resilience project in the Pacific, we can help. Get In Touch View All Services

40 years of coastal engineering expertise. ICM delivers erosion control, artificial reefs, marina solutions and coastal resilience across Australia and 23 countries. Engineered Resilience for a Changing Coastline. ICM helps governments, councils, and developers plan, protect, and deliver coastal projects with practical, site-specific solutions. TALK TO OUR COASTAL ENGINEERS VIEW OUR PROJECTS 40+ Years COASTAL EXPERTISE 23 Countries IMPACTED 1200+ Projects DELIVERED GLOBALLY Specialist Coastal and Marine Engineering for Lasting Impact. At International Coastal Management (ICM), we’re coastal engineering specialists with over 40 years of experience delivering tailored, innovative solutions that protect shorelines, restore ecosystems, and build resilient waterfronts. Unlike large civil engineering firms, we focus solely on coastal and marine engineering. With 1,200+ successful projects worldwide, we help communities, governments, and businesses safeguard their coastlines for future generations. EXPLORE OUR SERVICES Strategic Partners in Coastal Success For Councils & Governments Strategic shoreline management, public infrastructure resilience, and disaster mitigation planning. Learn more Developers & Waterfronts Specialist engineering to unlock, expand, and future-proof high-value waterfront developments. Learn more Ports & Commercial Independent technical verification, marina design, and marine infrastructure feasibility. Learn more Our Valued Partners Gold Coast City Office of the Mayor Ron Clarke, Mayor The famous beaches of the Gold Coast are one of the city's greatest assets and require considerable management expertise and innovation to maintain their pristine condition and sustainability. One such innovative project has been the Northern Gold Coast Beach Protection Strategy (NGCBPS), involving major beach nourishment works and the construction of an artificial reef, utilising sand filled geotextite mega containers weighing between 150 and 300 metric tonnes. [...] The success of the NGBPS after five years of operational service is testimony to the value and benefit of this evolving coastal solution technology. The Nature Conservancy (Australia) Craig Bohm - Conservation Coordinator ICM has been an engaged and effective project partner, delivering high-quality engineering services to The Nature Conservancy (TNC) for intertidal shellfish reef restoration projects in Queensland. These initiatives require integrating complex ecological objectives with engineering requirements that often challenge regulatory frameworks, and ICM has consistently provided robust, practical solutions that have helped keep our projects on track. To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key. Core Service Areas Designed for Impact, Tailored for You Coastal Protection & Erosion Control Resilient protection strategies to manage coastal erosion and safeguard vulnerable coastlines. Learn more Nature Based Solutions & Reefs Integrating ecological processes with engineering expertise for coastal protection and habitat creation. Learn more Marinas & Waterfront Development Specialist infrastructure for high-value marine, port and recreational assets. Learn more Coastal Engineering & Design Comprehensive design and project management for coastal and marine infrastructure, Learn more Coastal Resilience & Adaptation Adapt to climate risks with proactive planning and specialist coastal resilience solutions. Learn more Expert Witness, Advice & Review Independent expert advice, technical reviews, and legal support for coastal matters. Learn more How we do it, differently Custom Solutions That Work We tailor innovative designs that balance usability, protection, and ecological health. Save Time and Money With 40+ years of experience and 1,200+ projects worldwide, we know what works, and get it right. Specialist Expertise Focused exclusively on coastal engineering, we bring unmatched precision and results to every project. Solving Complex Coastal Challenges View Project Archive Discover how ICM has transformed coastal environments through innovative solutions that blend engineering excellence with nature-based practices. From erosion control to resilient designs, our specialist team delivers practical, proven solutions with precision. Living Speed Bumps, Oceanside Award-winning coastal concept combining living headlands and an offshore reef to retain sand and improve long-term beach resilience. Emergency Works, Gold Coast Rapid emergency works delivered after TC Alfred to protect the Surfers Paradise foreshore from erosion, scour, and further damage. Nearshore Breakwaters, Cairns Nearshore erosion management approach for Cairns beaches, designed to protect assets while maintaining access, amenity, and coastal function. Oyster Reef Restoration, Noosa Engineered oyster reef restoration that strengthened habitat, supported shoreline health, and enhanced ecological outcomes. Surf Reef Feasibility, Albany Feasibility study for a surf reef at Middleton Beach, identifying strong coastal, tourism, and community value. Munna Point Soft Groynes, Noosa Targeted soft groynes and nourishment works that improved shoreline stability, beach access, and public use at Munna Point. Let’s design your coastal or marine solution ICM Wins Global Recognition for Coastal Resilience Expertise The Re:Beach competition in Oceanside brought together the world’s foremost coastal engineering firms to develop sustainable, resilient solutions for their vulnerable coastline. ICM’s groundbreaking approach not only met the challenge but redefined it, awarding us the win and setting a new standard for coastal protection and enhancement. Full Service Whether you need a turn-key proposal or just looking for project elements or advice, ICM can assist through all project stages. Site Analysis Remote or on-site investigations to analyse site conditions and understand the natural dynamics. Design From conceptual with cost estimations to detailed design and approvals stages. Installation Our long track record of successful projects means we know how to pick the right approach for your specific site. On-going Monitoring On-going monitoring of projects (or elements) are an essential part of overall project success in the long term. Get In Touch Frequently Asked Questions What makes ICM different from other companies? ICM is uniquely positioned in the coastal industry having developed and implemented solutions that are considered world’s best practice. Our team is hands-on, with significant experience in site evaluation & solution implementation to ensure the best results are achieved for each site. How does ICM ensure cost savings on coastal projects? Our extensive experience allows us to get it right the first time, selecting the optimal solution for your specific site. By streamlining the process and avoiding costly errors, we help you save both time and money. What types of projects has ICM completed? We have completed over 1,200 projects worldwide, ranging from shoreline protection and restoration to marina developments and artificial reefs. Our portfolio showcases our ability to tackle various coastal challenges with proven results. What is the process for starting a project with ICM? The first step is to book a discovery call with our team. During this call, we’ll discuss your project’s unique needs, challenges, and goals. From there, we’ll outline a tailored plan and guide you through the next steps.