Search Results

The global spotlight has turned to Australia, with the Reef Builder project receiving UN World Restoration Flagship status , an award that recognises initiatives that support global commitments to restore one billion hectares. This is a major milestone for shellfish reef recovery, and International Coastal Management (ICM) is proud to be one of the partners supporting delivery of some of these flagship projects. Led by The Nature Conservancy (TNC) in partnership with the Australian Government, Reef Builder has restored more than 64 hectares of native oyster and mussel reefs across 21 sites since 2021. By 2030, the program aims to rebuild 60 reefs, restoring function and biodiversity to around 30% of their original locations. Noosa Oyster Reef Restoration Project | ICM Why Shellfish Reefs Matter Shellfish reefs are vital natural assets that support: Water filtration and improved estuarine water quality Habitat complexity that supports fish and invertebrate communities Shoreline protection benefits, including wave energy reduction and foreshore building Carbon storage within living systems and associated sediments Yet across Australia, more than 90% of shellfish reefs have been lost since the 19th century, making restoration an urgent priority for both ecological and community outcomes. Noosa Oyster Ecosystem Restoration Project One of the flagship sites in this national project is Noosa, where ICM worked alongside The Nature Conservancy Australia and partners to design and deliver 30 reef patches across 4 sites, using locally sourced rock and spat-seeded oyster shell. The reefs were engineered to meet ecological goals, provide secondary shoreline stabilisation benefits, and maintain river coastal processes and usability. "These reefs are much more than just habitat restoration, they're natural and adaptive infrastructure that supports the resilience and health of our coastal and estuarine environments.” said ICM's Senior Coastal Engineer and Project Lead, Sam King. Early success from monitoring (2022-2024) has shown: Successful young oyster ‘spat’ recruitment, growth rates up to 550 oysters/m² (vs baseline target of 200/m²) High biodiversity: oysters, hairy mussels, pearl oysters, invertebrates, seagrass and mangrove colonisation Sediment accretion at wave-exposed sites, reducing erosion Positive early stabilisation of riverbank and restoration of intertidal habitats "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." Said Craig Bohm, Conservation Coordinator at The Nature Conservancy (Australia) Noosa Oyster Reef Restoration Project | Google Earth imagery (06/07/2023), Map data: Google, Vexcel Imaging US, Inc. Taking Queensland’s experience to the global stage in Nice This year, ICM also shared the project internationally at the United Nations One Ocean Science Congress in Nice , France, where our team presented the Noosa Oyster Ecosystem Restoration Project. Presenting at OOSC provided a valuable opportunity to connect with researchers, governments, NGOs and industry groups focused on scaling coastal restoration that delivers measurable outcomes. What’s next ICM is now working with TNC on the Great Sandy Strait Shellfish Reef Restoration Project , continuing to apply evidence-based, nature-aligned coastal design across Queensland’s estuarine systems.

International Coastal Management (ICM) is inviting expressions of interest from Early-Career and Graduate Coastal Engineers (0-5 years’ experience) who are looking to build a long-term career in coastal and marine engineering. This role is ideal for someone passionate about coastal resilience, practical design, and innovative approaches to complex coastal challenges. You’ll contribute to projects across Australia and internationally - from coastal protection and modelling assessments to nature-based solutions, marina developments, and field investigations. The role involves collaborating with senior engineers and project teams, performing fieldwork, conducting research, preparing technical reports, and engaging with clients and stakeholders. Occasional travel (national and international) is part of the role, depending on project needs. About the Role As a Graduate or Early-Career Coastal Engineer at ICM, you will contribute to a wide range of coastal and marine engineering projects, both locally and overseas. Working closely with senior coastal engineers, your role will involve: Assisting with coastal engineering design, calculations, and technical documentation Supporting numerical and coastal process modelling Contributing to technical reports, assessments, and project deliverables Participating in field investigations, surveys, and site inspections Collaborating across multidisciplinary project teams on coastal protection, marina developments, and nature-based solutions This role offers hands-on exposure to real-world coastal challenges and is designed to develop technical capability, professional judgement, and long-term career growth. Skills and Experience We’re Looking For We are interested in hearing from candidates with: A degree in Coastal Engineering, Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or a related discipline 0-5 years’ experience in coastal or marine engineering (graduates encouraged to apply) Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail Experience using AutoCAD and Civil 3D Exposure to numerical modelling A strong understanding of coastal processes and coastal engineering principles Confident communicator who can work independently, including remotely Work style: the role is remote, with occasional office days and site visits as needed for project work and collaboration Location flexibility: our core engineering team is based on the Gold Coast (QLD), so being Queensland-based is advantageous, though applicants from anywhere in Australia are welcome to apply Why Work at International Coastal Management At ICM, you’ll work alongside coastal specialists who’ve shaped some of the most interesting and technically challenging coastal projects in Australia and internationally. We’re a small, collaborative team that enjoys solving difficult problems, testing innovative ideas, and applying design approaches grounded in real coastal processes and nature-based thinking. There’s long-term room to grow here - we’re looking for someone who wants to build their expertise with us over time and take on increasing responsibility as they develop. How to Apply Please submit your CV and a short introduction via our careers form.

ICM supported Southport Yacht Club with approvals to extend the D-Arm T-head, enabling berths for mega-yachts up to 79 m. The work covered development applications, agency liaison, and compliance coordination between contractor and certifying engineer to bring the new capacity online. Project Details Client: Southport Yacht Club Location: Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia Date: 2019 About This Project The Challenge SYC sought to extend its marina to safely accommodate larger vessels while navigating a multi-agency approvals path and ensuring design and construction compliance. The scope required timely submissions to the City of Gold Coast, the Department of Science, and the Gold Coast Waterways Authority, plus clear alignment between contractor deliverables and certification requirements. The Solution ICM led the approvals strategy and documentation for the D-Arm T-head extension, preparing tidal works applications, and streamlining engagement with relevant agencies. The enlarged berth capacity has already proven practical for high-end visitation, including the 73m Dragonfly. “We streamlined a complex approvals path so that the SYC could host larger superyachts and megayachts with confidence and compliance from day one.” - Angus Jackson, ICM Services Provided Approvals strategy and project management Preparation of tidal works applications Lodgement and liaison with relevant agencies Review of conditions

Following damage from Tropical Cyclone Debbie (March 2017), ICM reviewed and refined the repair and modification concept for the Wilsons Beach swimming enclosure to enhance safety. The work addressed structural height, full enclosure, mesh specification, and landward access while considering sea-level rise, reuse of existing timber piles, and Safety in Design requirements. Wilson's Beach Swimming Closure in 2015 (Prior to cyclone damage). Image source: Google Earth. (May 14, 2015). 20°28'20"S 148°43'21"E. https://earth.google.com/ Project Details Client: Whitsunday Regional Council Location: Wilsons Beach, Whitsundays, Queensland, Australia Date: 2017 (post-TC Debbie) About This Project The Challenge After TC Debbie, the existing enclosure required targeted upgrades to improve safety. The Council’s repair concept proposed a double-layer plastic oyster mesh, extension of the structure up the beach, a fourth wall with a spring-loaded landward gate for full enclosure, and increased crest height - solutions that needed engineering review for durability, operability, constructibility, and future sea-level conditions. The Solution ICM undertook an engineering design review and produced design drawings addressing the proposed concepts. Services Provided Engineering design review Safety in Design (SiD) assessment Looking for coastal engineering advice or an expert review? Get in touch!

Over the past five decades, Dubai coastal development has transformed the once small fishing village into one of the world's most engineered and recognisable coastlines. From marinas and artificial islands, to pristine beaches and harbours, Dubai projects showcase innovation, ambition, and adaptation. But these ideas didn't emerge in isolation. Around the same time that Dubai began envisioning its coastal expansion, cities like Australia's Gold Coast were pioneering new approaches to shoreline resilience, nourishment, and urban waterfront design . Those early lessons - in how to work with nature while accommodating growth, helped shape a global movement in coastal development. Today, land reclamation in Dubai stands as one of the most ambitious examples of this evolution. Projects such as Palm Jumeirah and The World Islands demonstrate how vision, planning and coastal engineering can combine to build not only new land, but new ways of living by the sea. Table of Contents Turning a Coastline Into an Asset Global Collaboration and Gold Coast Expertise A Leader in Coastal Management The Next Challenge: Sea Level Rise and Sediment Sustainability Turning a Coastline Into an Asset Since the 1970s, Dubai Municipality has played a central role in shaping the city’s transformation. Long before large-scale reclamation projects began, Dubai Municipality coastal managers were studying world best practice, not only from Europe and the US, but also from coastal innovation hubs like the Gold Coast. Their goal was not simply to build more land, but to create a self-sustaining coastal system that would protect the city from erosion, enhance tourism, and expand its usable waterfront. What set Dubai apart was its commitment to turning theory into action. Freed from the usual economic constraints, Dubai Municipality embraced innovation at a scale few cities could match. The result, new pathways for coastal design, reclamation, and resilience that would capture global attention. Global Collaboration and Gold Coast Expertise By the 1990s, Dubai, under the leadership of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, sought to transform itself into a global hub. The Gold Coast and Dubai's shared ethos of innovation led to a sister-city relationship in March 2001, where Mayor Gary Baildon signed a Sister City Agreement  between the cities, focusing on coastal management and waterfront development.  At that time, Gold Coast engineers had decades of experience managing erosion and development through nearshore nourishment, artificial reefs, and coastal structures. As Dubai’s projects grew, international consultants including International Coastal Management (ICM)  brought this expertise to the Gulf. Led by Angus Jackson and Aaron Salyer, ICM applied the same principles developed in Australia to help design, model, and implement large-scale coastal works suited to Dubai’s unique environment. Did Dubai Coastal Development Take Inspiration from the Gold Coast?  It was rumoured that during an aerial flight over the Gold Coast's canal systems, Sheikh Mohammed commented on the Sovereign Island development that it was great, but could be even better. Could this have helped to spark the vision for Dubai's iconic coastal development projects? Feats so ambitious they're visible from space. The Role of Gold Coast Expertise in Dubai's Success  Gold Coast-based companies, particularly International Coastal Management , played a valuable role in assisting with Dubai's vision. With decades of expertise on the Gold Coast and globally ICM was engaged on multiple fronts, including on projects such as the  Palm Jumeirah and the World Islands .   These were reclaimed from the ocean, much like the Gold Coast developments were reclaimed from waterways, low lying lands and swamps. Dredging is important to both cities, and we have no doubt that both cities will continue to develop their resilience going forward into the future. - Angus Jackson, ICM   ICM's involvement extended beyond the Palm Jumeirah and the World Islands . In the early 2000s, we collaborated with Dubai Municipality to develop solutions tailored to the Gulf's unique environment, including multifunctional artificial reefs (combining coastal protection and surf amenity) with additional  research and development of artificial reef modules specifically tailored to the local conditions to enhance both recreation and habitat. These efforts highlighted the importance of adapting Gold Coast innovations to meet Dubai's specific needs.   Additional Dubai Coastal Development Projects with International Coastal Management ICM’s work in Dubai expanded across a range of key coastal and marine initiatives, including: FIFA World Cup Erosion Protection Dubai Coastal Structures Condition Assessment Jumeirah Beachfront Master Planning Dubai Superyacht Moorings Design Sheraton Jumeriah Coastal Protection Works Soft Groynes Coastal Protection for Umm Suqeim Al Yasat Aali Island Coastal Engineering Each project reinforced ICM’s philosophy of combining engineering precision with environmental balance - working with natural systems to build resilient coastlines.   A Leader in Coastal Management Today, Dubai Municipality is recognised as a global leader in coastal management. Extensive modelling and long-term monitoring guide its decisions on shoreline stability, sediment transport, and wave climate. Over the past two decades, an increasing number of Emirati coastal engineers have taken on key technical and management roles, reflecting the success of local knowledge and innovation. Additionally, a newly established Department for Public Beaches and Waterways now leads the city’s efforts to manage its coast sustainably, ensuring Dubai’s beaches and marinas remain safe, accessible, and resilient.   The Next Challenge: Sea Level Rise and Sediment Sustainability As sea levels rise and coastal cities face increasing environmental pressures, maintaining resilience across the Dubai coastline will depend on long-term sand management and ecosystem integration. Sand, once seen as an abundant material, is now a critical and limited resource. Future strategies will focus on bypassing, reusing, and recycling sediment - keeping it within the coastal system rather than sourcing it externally. Dubai’s proactive planning, guided by data, science, and global collaboration, positions it well to meet this challenge. For ICM, the work continues: helping coastal cities worldwide manage their challenges through practical, science-driven, and sustainable design. Looking for coastal resilience specialists? Get in touch with us !

International Coastal Management (ICM) led a value-coastal engineering design for key marine works on one of The World Islands Dubai, optimising breakwaters, a VIP groyne, shoreline walls, and marina berths to balance protection, amenity, and constructibility. The preferred scheme reduced lifecycle cost and footprint while meeting performance targets for safe waters, durable edges, and efficient barge-served construction. Project Details Client: Confidential Date: 2009 Location: The World Islands, Dubai, United Arab Emirates About this Project The Challenge The development required stable shorelines and predictable water conditions for swimming and berthing, high-amenity waterfront edges (including access to a helipad), and solutions compatible with shallow reclamation geotechnics and barge-only logistics. Existing concepts needed refinement to lower whole-of-life cost, minimise visual and environmental impact, and provide clear alternatives for tender and contractor optimisation. The Solution ICM undertook targeted value coastal engineering to set marina performance criteria and stress-test alternatives. The team compared rock breakwater typologies (including hearting-core sections and geosynthetic-core options), reconfigured a VIP groyne to compartmentalise the beach while maintaining flushing, and selected low-maintenance edge treatments (precast vertical panel walls and composite sheet-pile solutions) to maximise land take and durability. For berthing, heavy-duty concrete pontoons - including floating breakwater modules where required - were adopted to meet the defined wave climate with reduced maintenance. The approach emphasised prefabrication, barge-friendly construction, and visual sensitivity, and packaged schematic designs, alternates, and staging guidance to move efficiently into detailed design and procurement. “Our focus was performance per dollar: keep people safe and comfortable, protect the shore, and make it buildable with marine logistics - without over-engineering.” - Aaron Salyer, Director, International Coastal Management Services Provided: The World Islands Dubai Value engineering review of coastal and marina works Numerical performance setting and option stress-testing Concept refinement and schematic design packages Constructability and logistics planning for barge-served delivery Lifecycle (CAPEX/OPEX) considerations and materials selection Stakeholder coordination and pathway to detailed design

International Coastal Management (ICM) is proud to announce that our founder, Angus Jackson, has been appointed as a committee member of the ' National Committee on Coastal and Ocean Engineering (NCCOE) ', a specialist sub‑committee of Engineers Australia’s Civil College. The NCCOE plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of coastal and ocean engineering across Australia. As part of Engineers Australia, the committee brings together leading experts from consulting, government, research, and academia to address some of the nation’s most pressing challenges in managing and protecting our coastal and marine environments. About the National Committee on Coastal and Ocean Engineering Coastal and ocean engineering is a highly specialised discipline, working across the interface between land, sea, and the open ocean. The work spans from designing and managing marina development to safeguarding nearshore environments , and building coastal resilience against hazards such as storms, erosion, and climate change impacts. The NCCOE’s objectives include: Facilitating initial and continuing professional education. Assisting in accreditation of relevant tertiary courses. Encouraging and prioritising research. Ensuring the availability of technical standards. Promoting good coastal and ocean engineering practice. Providing forums and networks for knowledge exchange. Formulating policy advice for Engineers Australia in coastal and ocean matters. Fostering interaction between the profession and the public on technical and social issues. Current priorities for the NCCOE focus on improving management of the coastal zone through a deeper understanding of coastal processes, developing hazard and risk strategies, and establishing a national coastal and near‑ocean data program that integrates cutting‑edge remote sensing technologies. Angus Jackson’s Contribution Angus Jackson brings decades of hands‑on and strategic experience to the NCCOE. As founder of ICM, he has led projects across Australia and internationally, delivering innovative solutions for coastal protection, enhancement, and adaptation. From implementing large‑scale nourishment programs on the Gold Coast to advising on cyclone recovery efforts in Queensland and resilience strategies for coastal communities, Angus has consistently championed engineering solutions that work with natural systems rather than against them. His leadership in building collaboration between engineers, scientists, policymakers, and communities aligns closely with the NCCOE’s mission to connect technical expertise with societal needs. “I’m honoured to join the NCCOE and contribute to its important work,” said Angus. “Australia’s coastline is both a treasured asset and a dynamic, challenging environment. The committee’s role in guiding best practice, shaping policy, and supporting innovation is vital as we adapt to the changing climate, population growth, and evolving coastal use.” Why This Matters for ICM Angus’s appointment is not only a recognition of his individual expertise, but also a reflection of ICM’s standing in the coastal engineering community. Being represented on the NCCOE ensures that the perspectives and practical insights gained through our projects are part of the national conversation. It allows us to contribute to setting research priorities, influencing technical standards, and ensuring that coastal management decisions are grounded in both science and real‑world application. This role also offers opportunities for knowledge exchange between ICM and other leaders in the field. Insights from the NCCOE’s work will directly inform our project methodologies, helping us deliver even better outcomes for our clients and the communities we serve. We congratulate Angus on this well‑deserved recognition and look forward to the impact he will make as part of the National Committee on Coastal and Ocean Engineering.

ICM prepared a Phase-1 Marine & Coastal Issues Study to underpin master planning for the Australia Islands Group within The World Islands, Dubai - identifying design risks and requirements across waves, currents, water levels, water quality, shoreline stability, berthing, and navigation. The study set data needs and modelling pathways, recommended preliminary beach/edge typologies and marina tranquillity criteria, and outlined mitigation options to balance protection, flushing, and amenity. Project Details Client: GHD Date: December 2004 Location: The World Islands, Dubai, United Arab Emirates The Challenge Creating a liveable, high-amenity island group inside a vast offshore archipelago required early clarity on coastal defences, internal wave climate, harbour tranquillity, water quality, sediment transport, vessel wakes, and navigation. With limited site data and evolving perimeter breakwater geometry, the master plan needed robust criteria for beaches and edge treatments, realistic marina performance targets (AS3962), and strategies to minimise maintenance dredging and protect swimmer safety - without compromising flushing or visual outcomes. The Solution ICM defined strategic objectives, reviewed the concept layout against marine processes, and compiled data and modelling requirements to de-risk planning and set design envelopes. The study set marina tranquillity criteria, highlighted vessel-wake management (e.g., low-wake operations), mapped preliminary navigation channels and aids and outlined water quality mitigation options integrated with a phased monitoring and data-capture plan. “At concept stage our job is to ‘set the stage’ - get the shoreline orientation, beach width, and protection typologies right so detailed design has a stable, buildable starting point.” - Aaron Salyer, Director, International Coastal Management Services Provided Stage-1 coastal study and concept development workshops Desktop wave climate assessment (including effects of The World/Palm Jumeirah) and shoreline stability review Concept layouts for beaches, breakwaters, groynes/sills, quay/revetment edges, canals, and marina berths Recommendations on beach widths, crest levels, and orientation to improve stability Identification of Stage-2 modelling, fill and materials quantification, and design verification needs

ICM is proud to announce the appointment of Chadi Sabra as Managing Director for EMEA, reinforcing our long-standing commitment to sustainable coastal and marine infrastructure across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. For more than two decades, ICM has been a trusted partner in the region, delivering innovative, resilient, and iconic coastal solutions. With Chadi joining our leadership team, we are deepening that commitment, aligning our global expertise with the region’s bold development visions. Engineering Leadership with Regional Depth Chadi is a highly regarded senior executive and Chartered Civil Engineer with over 20 years of experience in marine and coastal infrastructure. His portfolio includes transformative developments such as the $3B Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah Causeway and the $17B King Salman Maritime Complex, reflecting his ability to combine engineering with strategic leadership. Chadi’s specialist expertise in marinas, ports, and large-scale waterfront infrastructure makes him uniquely positioned to guide ICM’s regional growth at a time when Gulf nations are reshaping their coastlines to balance economic development with environmental sustainability. Holding an MSc in Civil and Coastal Engineering, an MBA in Global Management, and professional certifications including PMP, PMO-CP, and ENV-SP, Chadi combines academic depth with practical, results-driven leadership. More importantly, he is known for his collaborative approach, building strong partnerships with municipalities, developers, contractors, and consultants. “The region’s coastlines face accelerating challenges - from rapid development to environmental stressors,” says Chadi.  “But with the right partnerships and engineering approach, we can create infrastructure that’s resilient, sustainable, and built to last.”  Strengthening Our Regional Commitment  ICM has a long and established history in the Middle East - from artificial reef systems to coastal protection structures and artificial island developments. Our portfolio reflects the trust placed in us by municipalities, developers, contractors and private sector partners who require both technical certainty and sustainable outcomes. With Chadi leading our regional office, we are doubling down on that commitment. His leadership will ensure ICM continues to deliver smart, scalable, and innovative solutions that address the region’s most pressing coastal challenges - from erosion and climate change adaptation to the creation of thriving, resilient waterfronts. “ICM’s work has always balanced nature with engineering. That’s exactly what the region needs - proven solutions that integrate environmental protection with engineering certainty,” Chadi notes. “I’m excited to build on that reputation - and work closely with regional partners to deliver infrastructure that lasts and adapts to the future.” What We Offer in the Middle East  ICM continues to provide full-service coastal consultancy across:  Coastal protection & erosion control  Marina Planning and Port Development  Nature-based solutions & artificial reefs  Island & waterfront development  Climate adaptation & Resilience  Monitoring, review & expert advisory  Every project we deliver combines a global perspective with deep regional insight - balancing technical certainty with a deep respect for natural systems.    Let’s Work Together  If you’re planning a coastal or waterfront project in the EMEA region, whether it’s resilient infrastructure, an island development, or erosion mitigation - our team is here to support.

In response to severe erosion and successive breakthrough events on Bribie Island, the Queensland Government commissioned an independent expert review to assess impacts, develop immediate recommendations, and plan long-term coastal resilience strategies. Project Details Client: Queensland Government Date: 2025 Location: Bribie Island & Surrounds About This Project The Challenge: Major erosion and two significant breakthrough events, first in 2022, and then again during ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred in 2025, rapidly altered the northern tip of Bribie Island. These changes closed the Caloundra Bar, impacted marine access, and raised serious concerns about the long-term protection of nearby communities, infrastructure, and ecological systems. The Solution: The Queensland Government appointed RPS and International Coastal Management (ICM) to conduct an independent review into the Bribie Island erosion and breakthrough events , including: Part 1: Desktop analysis of erosion and breakthrough events, drawing on more than 200 historical and technical sources Part 2: Immediate recommendations, focusing on urgent actions to reduce risks caused by the recent erosion and breakthrough events Part 3: Long-term recommendations, focusing on proactive forward-looking measures to enhance the long-term resilience of the system These insights are now informing both immediate works and the broader future direction for the region's coastal management. "This project was about more than just reacting to erosion - it was about helping the community understand what’s happening and planning for what’s next. Our role was to cut through complexity and provide clear, practical steps for both immediate action and long-term resilience." - Aaron Salyer, Director & Principal Coastal Engineer, ICM Services Provided Desktop analysis Immediate recommendations Long-term recommendations Community consultation and stakeholder engagement Get in Touch Interested in building coastal resilience or need support navigating erosion risks?

Following Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, the Surfers Paradise Hardstand faced immediate erosion and scour risk from elevated tides and swell. ICM led a fast-track response for the City of Gold Coast, delivering emergency protection design, rapid procurement, approvals support, and implementation guidance while preparing future options. Project Details Client: City of Gold Coast Location: Queensland, Australia Date: 2025 About This Project The Challenge With citywide nourishment programs still in progress, the Hardstand area required short-term measures to prevent undermining during upcoming high-energy events. The window to design, source materials, secure permissions, and mobilise crews was extremely tight. The Solution ICM led a coordinated emergency works program. We reviewed nourishment strategies suited to local sand conditions and wave climate, then produced construction-ready details for rapid works at the Hardstand zone. In parallel, we arranged direct procurement with international suppliers to secure specialist coastal protection materials at speed, and worked closely with regulatory agencies to streamline emergency approvals. During construction, our engineers provided agile design adjustments and on-site support. To strengthen future resilience, we prepared a suite of options with concept layouts, costed scenarios, and maintenance strategies to support quicker responses in future erosion events. “Our goal was simple - stabilise the Hardstand fast and cut delays by aligning design, procurement, approvals, and site support into one coordinated push.” - Aaron Salyer, ICM Services Provided Condition review and impact modelling Emergency response design Feasibility assessment Approvals liaison and implementation support

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.