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Drafting a new marina development plan is an exciting opportunity, but it’s also a major engineering and planning challenge. From choosing the right site to designing for long-term resilience and profitability, there’s a lot to consider.  At International Coastal Management (ICM), we’ve been delivering marina developments for over 35 years, helping clients navigate coastal complexities, approvals, and commercial realities to deliver high-performing waterfront infrastructure.  Why a Purpose-Built Marina Matters  Marina developments, if not designed correctly, can run into major problems down the line, including wave damage, downdrift erosion impacts, sedimentation, unusable berths, or costly redesigns.  That’s why it’s essential to bring in coastal and marina engineering consultants from day one. A well-designed marina isn’t just about the best quality berths and pontoons, it’s about getting every component right:  Wave protection  Water circulation and flushing  Vessel access and safety  Environmental compliance  Infrastructure design and staging  Utility and service integration  Financial feasibility  ICM’s Marina Development Plan With over 35 years of expertise, ICM acts as a technical advisor, coastal engineer, and project delivery partner. Here’s how we guide clients through a new marina development:  Step 1: Site Feasibility & Coastal Condition Assessment  We start by assessing whether the site can physically support a marina, and what kind of design it will require. This includes:  Wave climate and wind exposure  Tidal range and water depth  Sediment transport and erosion risks  Environmental constraints (seagrass, mangroves, habitats)  Circulation and flushing capacity  Access to navigation channels  We also assess potential dredging needs, permitting pathways, downdrift impacts, and coastal risks like storm surge and flooding.  Step 2: Concept Layout & Vessel Planning  Our Marina Engineers develop an optimised layout based on:  Intended user types (e.g. recreational, commercial, superyachts, megayachts)  Vessel size mix and maneuvering space  Lease boundaries or development envelope  Shoreline conditions and site geometry  Long-term staging plans  We use AS3962 and international best practice to develop safe, efficient, and cost-effective configurations, backed by coastal modelling and hydrodynamic analysis.  Step 3: Breakwater & Wave Attenuation Design  Depending on the site’s exposure, we determine whether wave protection is required, and how best to achieve it. This may include:  Rock breakwaters  Floating wave attenuators  Low-lying structures like geotubes  We model wave penetration into the marina basin to ensure vessel safety and comfort under all weather conditions.  Step 4: Environmental & Regulatory Coordination  We lead the environmental and permitting aspects of the project, including:  Environmental impact assessments  Stakeholder consultation  Dredging and disposal approvals  Habitat protection plans  Compliance with local, state, and federal frameworks  Our deep experience in coastal regulation helps streamline approvals, without compromising sustainability.  Step 5: Engineering Design & Tender Support  We prepare or review technical marina designs for:  Pontoons and mooring systems  Revetments and shoreline protection  Dredging and sediment management  Utility services (power, water, sewage, fuel)  Public access and landside amenities  Our expert team ensures project ease by leading contractor engagement, supplier coordination, and procurement support  Step 6: Construction & Project Delivery  Once construction begins, ICM can provide:  Contractor oversight  Fabrication checks and pre-installation inspections  Progress assessments  Practical completion certification  We also support post-installation monitoring to ensure water quality, vessel access, and structural performance meet expectations.  Key Elements of a Successful New Marina  ✔️ Integrated Layout – Efficient vessel access, berthing, and support services   ✔️ Wave Protection – Engineered for storm resilience and user comfort   ✔️ Utility Infrastructure – Power, water, fueling, sullage, lighting, fire systems   ✔️ Environmental Harmony – Minimal ecological disruption and strong flushing   ✔️ Future-Proofing – Space for expansion, changing vessel sizes, and user trends   ✔️ Smart Materials – Durable, low-maintenance, and climate-ready   ✔️ Financial Viability – Berth mix and layout designed to optimise ROI  Thinking of Building a Marina?  Whether it’s a boutique waterfront extension or a multi-stage international marina development, early engineering input is essential to avoid costly rework, design limitations, and environmental issues.  ICM is your trusted partner from feasibility through to delivery. Let’s talk!

Following repeated cyclone damage and erosion to the beach adjacent to the Bowen Golf Club, Whitsunday Regional Council engaged ICM to develop a seawall solution to prevent further erosion. ICM designed a durable seawall using repurposed seabees units from a historic Bowen project to prevent future coastal recession and protect golf course assets. Project Details Client: Whitsunday Regional Council Date: 2016 Location: Bowen Golf Club, Queensland About This Project The Challenge: Coastal erosion triggered by multiple cyclones had begun to threaten the beach adjacent to the Bowen Golf Club. The Council sought a cost-effective solution using available materials to minimise project costs while delivering shoreline stability. The Solution: ICM was engaged to assess the viability of using Seabees units - originally from a historic project in Bowen - and to develop a tailored seawall design for the unique conditions of the site. A condition review of existing Seabees units was undertaken, with a stability assessment of the seabees seawall using exiting available units. A concept and detailed design was completed based on the condition and geometry of the existing Seabees. Key structural elements, including the filter layer, toe protection, crest detail and seawall return were engineered for optimal performance. The project successfully reused 266 existing Seabees units, delivering both cost-efficiency and durability. The seawall was constructed from September to November 2017, with ICM providing ongoing support to ensure successful implementation. This project showed how innovative re-use of materials combined with expert coastal engineering, can deliver a cost-effective and resilient erosion solution." - Aaron Salyer, International Coastal Management Services Provided: Seabees condition review Concept design for seawall layout Detailed design including toe, crest, and filter layer Design of seawall return Get in Touch ICM has delivered seawall and coastal protection projects across Queensland using innovative, site-specific designs tailored to natural forces and local materials. If your council or development is facing coastal erosion challenges, get in touch with us to explore solutions that balance durability, sustainability, and value.

With over 35 years of experience as trusted marina engineering consultants, our team at International Coastal Management specialises in practical, cost-effective marina upgrades that align with both technical performance and user needs. Whether you're looking to improve berth layouts, enhance resilience to wave impacts, or preparing for larger vessels, our team provides independent, end-to-end support, from feasibility through to design, approvals, and delivery. Why Upgrade a Marina?  Over time, even the best-built marinas face pressure from:  Larger vessel sizes (including superyachts and megayachts)  Evolving user demands - for deeper drafts, more amenities, improved services, enhanced marina design   Regulatory changes - environmental and safety standards changing  Structural wear and tear - pontoons, revetments, breakwaters and piles all age and need upgrading at some point Sediment and water quality issues - many marinas can suffer from infill and circulation problems  A well-timed upgrade can address these issues, restoring performance, increasing revenue generation, and enhancing the user experience.  How Independent, Expert Marina Engineering Advice Can Save You Money  ICM is not a supplier of marina products or pontoons, we’re independent coastal engineers. That means our only goal is to deliver the best outcome for your marina, based on performance, usability, budget, design , and long-term success. Our marina development plan follows a proven roadmap:  Step 1: Comprehensive Condition Assessment  We begin by physically assessing your current infrastructure, including pontoons, revetments, seabed conditions, wave exposure, and site functionality. This includes:  Structural performance and deterioration  Operational constraints  Revenue optimisation opportunities  Environmental conditions (waves, tides, sedimentation)  This gives us a clear, data-backed understanding of where the marina is today, and where it could go.  Step 2: Concept Development & Feasibility Analysis  Based on the findings, we generate upgrade options tailored to your marina goals. This can include replacing aging docks, expanding the number of berths, or improving wave protection. Our team evaluates:  Marina Engineering feasibility  Cost-benefit analysis  Coastal processes and wave climate  Environmental permitting pathways  Revenue potential  We also identify any dredging, breakwater improvements, or shoreline stabilisation that might be required.  Step 3: Smarter Layouts for Future Use  Using modern modelling tools and marina design guidelines (including AS3962), we design new layouts that reflect:  Changing vessel mixes (e.g. more 20m+ vessels, multihulls)  Superyacht or commercial requirements  Optimised fairway widths, turnaround space, and berth orientation  Safe tidal and wind access  Opportunities for additional revenue (charter berths, longer stays)  Our founder, Angus Jackson, helped lay the foundation for modern marina design in Australia as a member of the original Australian Standards Committee for marina guidelines in 1991. These standards (AS3962) remain a national benchmark today.  Step 4: Coordinated Delivery & Stakeholder Engagement  We coordinate across your entire project team, working closely with:  Pontoon and marina hardware suppliers  Marine contractors  Environmental consultants  Approval authorities  Internal stakeholders (e.g. yacht club or marina committees)  ICM handles everything from pre-approval engagement to design reviews and tender support. Our project managers ensure your best interests are protected from start to finish.  Step 5: Construction Oversight & Post-Installation Monitoring  Once construction is underway, we stay involved. ICM oversees:  Fabrication checks before pontoons or components leave the yard  On-site contractor supervision and quality control  Compliance inspections and final sign-off  Post-installation monitoring to confirm performance  In a recent marina project, a supplier had proposed an oversized, costly system to our client. We reviewed the requirements and provided the client with a more economical option that better suited the marina’s long-term needs, saving significant capital while delivering a more functional design.  Common Marina Upgrade Scenarios  Every marina upgrade is unique, however here are just a few examples of situations our marina engineering consultants frequently support:  Aging pontoons that no longer meet safety or usability standards  Marina layout that doesn’t suit today’s vessel mix  Increasing maintenance costs due to sedimentation or poor flushing  Dredging needs or water depth concerns for larger boats  Interest in attracting superyachts or high-value vessels  Need for updated utility infrastructure (power, sullage, fire systems)  What You Gain From an ICM Led Marina Upgrade  ✔ Independent advice that puts your needs first   ✔ Optimised design that enhances functionality and revenue   ✔ Regulatory compliance through strong environmental support   ✔ Reduced capital costs through smarter, leaner layouts   ✔ Peace of mind with specialist marina engineering support through the entire process  Upgrading a marina is an opportunity to rethink how your site performs, earns, and grows. At ICM, we bring the technical depth and project delivery expertise to make your marina development a long-term success.

Designing a new marina is an exciting opportunity, but it’s also a major engineering and planning challenge. From choosing the right site to designing for long-term resilience and profitability, there’s a lot to consider. At International Coastal Management (ICM) , we’ve been part of marina design, upgrades , and development for over 35 years, helping clients navigate coastal complexities, approvals, and commercial realities to deliver high-performing waterfront infrastructure.  Why a Purpose-Built Marina Matters  Marina developments , if not designed correctly, can run into major problems down the line, including wave damage, downdrift erosion impacts, sedimentation, unusable berths, or costly redesigns.  That’s why it’s essential to bring in coastal and marina engineering consultants from day one. A well-designed marina isn’t just about the best quality berths and pontoons, it’s about getting every component right:  Wave protection  Water circulation and flushing  Vessel access and safety  Environmental compliance  Infrastructure design and staging  Utility and service integration  Financial feasibility  Optimal usability for service users ICM’s Role in Marina Design & Development  With over 35 years of expertise, ICM acts as a technical advisor, coastal engineering company, and project delivery partner. Here’s how we guide clients through their new marina development plan :  Step 1: Site Feasibility & Coastal Condition Assessment  We start by assessing whether the site can physically support a marina, and what kind of design it will require. This includes:  Wave climate and wind exposure  Tidal range and water depth  Sediment transport and erosion risks  Environmental constraints (seagrass, mangroves, habitats)  Circulation and flushing capacity  Access to navigation channels  We also assess potential dredging needs, permitting pathways, downdrift impacts, and coastal risks like storm surge and flooding.  Step 2: Concept Layout & Vessel Planning  Our Marina Engineers develop an optimised layout based on:  Intended user types (e.g. recreational, commercial, superyachts, megayachts)  Vessel size mix and manoeuvring space  Lease boundaries or development envelope  Shoreline conditions and site geometry  Long-term staging plans  We use AS3962 and international best practices to develop safe, efficient, and cost-effective configurations, backed by coastal modelling and hydrodynamic analysis.  Step 3: Breakwater & Wave Attenuation Design  Depending on the site’s exposure, we determine whether wave protection is required, and how best to achieve it. This may include:  Rock breakwaters  Floating wave attenuators  Low-lying structures like geotubes  We can model wave penetration into the marina basin to ensure vessel safety and comfort under all weather conditions.  Step 4: Environmental & Regulatory Coordination  We lead the environmental and permitting aspects of the project, including:  Environmental impact assessments  Stakeholder consultation  Dredging and disposal approvals  Habitat protection plans  Compliance with local, state, and federal frameworks  Our deep experience in coastal regulation helps streamline approvals, without compromising sustainability.  Step 5: Engineering Design & Tender Support  We prepare or review technical designs for:  Pontoons and mooring systems  Revetments and shoreline protection  Dredging and sediment management  Utility services (power, water, sewage, fuel)  Public access and landside amenities  Marine barriers Our expert team ensures project ease by leading contractor engagement, supplier coordination, and procurement support  Step 6: Construction & Project Delivery  Once construction begins, ICM can provide:  Contractor oversight  Fabrication checks and pre-installation inspections  Progress assessments  Practical completion certification  We also support post-installation monitoring to ensure water quality, vessel access, and structural performance meet expectations.  Key Elements of a Successful New Marina  ✔️ Integrated Layout – Efficient vessel access, berthing, and support services   ✔️ Wave Protection – Engineered for storm resilience and user comfort   ✔️ Utility Infrastructure – Power, water, fueling, sullage, lighting, fire systems   ✔️ Environmental Harmony – Minimal ecological disruption and strong flushing   ✔️ Future-Proofing – Space for expansion, changing vessel sizes, and user trends   ✔️ Smart Materials – Durable, low-maintenance, and climate-ready   ✔️ Financial Viability – Berth mix and layout designed to optimise ROI  Thinking of Building a Marina or Upgrading an Existing One?  Whether it’s a boutique waterfront extension or a multi-stage international marina development , early engineering input is essential to avoid costly rework, design limitations, and environmental issues.  ICM is your trusted partner from feasibility through to delivery.  📩 Let’s talk about your vision.

As global demand grows for resilient, functional, and modern marinas, the role of expert marina engineering has never been more crucial. At International Coastal Management (ICM), we bring over 35 years of global experience in coastal and waterfront infrastructure design, blending technical expertise with real-world insights to deliver high-performance, cost-effective marina solutions.  From yacht clubs to large commercial marina hubs, we work alongside marina owners and operators, marine contractors, suppliers, and specialists to create marinas that are not only functional and highly usable, but adaptable to evolving environmental and commercial pressures.  What Is Marina Engineering? Marina engineering focuses on the planning, design, construction, and long-term management of marina facilities. As vessel sizes continue to increase globally, marinas are becoming more complex. A modern marina must balance structural durability, environmental sensitivity, usability, and cost-efficiency, while responding to dynamic coastal and tidal conditions.  Why Expert Engineering Makes a Difference  The risks of poor marina design are high. Without a strategic engineering approach, marinas can face:  Sedimentation issues requiring constant dredging   Wave impacts that damage pontoons or limit usability  Poor vessel access or turnaround space  Service shortfalls (power, water, fuel, sewage)  Cost overruns and retrofits  At ICM, our marina engineering consultants work with our clients from day one to avoid these risks, building high-performing, low-maintenance marinas from the ground up.  ICM’s Approach to Marina Projects  Every marina is different - and that’s where ICM’s deep understanding of coastal systems comes in. We don’t sell products; we develop solutions tailored to your marina development plan , your goals, and your vessel mix.  Whether designing a new marina or upgrading an existing marina , our core services include:  Wave Climate & Exposure Assessment  We analyse local wave conditions to determine whether breakwaters or wave attenuation structures are needed. This assists calm, operable waters in variable weather conditions, critical for protecting marina infrastructure and user safety.  Berth Layout & Navigation Channel Design  Using the latest modelling tools, we design layouts that maximise berthing capacity while ensuring safe manoeuvrability and access for vessels of all sizes, including superyachts. megayachts, single and twin hulls.  Dock & Pontoon System Selection  We recommend floating, fixed, or hybrid dock systems based on tidal range, wave exposure, and marina use, always aiming for the best solution for longevity, stability, and low maintenance.  Environmental Impact & Sustainability  From water quality management to environmental protection, we embed sustainability into every design, helping clients secure permits while protecting marine ecosystems.  Utility Planning & Smart Infrastructure  We review power, water, sullage, and fire services, future-proofing for increasing vessel power demands, superyacht expectations, and marina-wide operational efficiency.  The Evolution of Marina Design Marina engineering has evolved rapidly in recent decades. Larger vessels, increased tourism, and a shift toward luxury and lifestyle destinations have all pushed marina infrastructure beyond its traditional design limits.  Our founder, Angus Jackson, helped lay the foundation for modern marina design in Australia as a member of the original Australian Standards Committee for marina guidelines in 1991. These standards (AS3962) remain a national benchmark today.  Global Expertise, Local Understanding  From the United Arab Emirates to regional Australia, ICM has delivered marina engineering projects in some of the world’s most dynamic coastal settings. Our team understands how to balance:  The needs of operators and vessel owners  Changing coastal and estuarine conditions  Environmental and regulatory constraints  Long-term cost-efficiency and buildability  Marina engineering is more than design, it’s about ensuring the long-term resilience, safety, and success of a valuable community and economic asset. With rising sea levels, growing vessel sizes, and increasing environmental scrutiny, it’s never been more important to get it right.  At ICM, we’re ready to help you plan, build, or upgrade a marina that performs today, and lasts into the future.  Looking to optimise your marina development ? Let’s talk.

Coastal cliff erosion is a common problem worldwide, including at the iconic 320m stretch of cliffs at Scarborough in Moreton Bay. They had been suffering from long-term retreat due to natural coastal processes. The retreat of these cliffs not only threatened the loss and damage to infrastructure and public amenities, including parkland, paths and road, but also the iconic aesthetic of the cliffs for which the Redcliffe Peninsular were named after. Without an effective coastal cliff stabilisation solution, erosion of the cliffs would continue and likely accelerate due to sea level rise and climate change impacts. Moreton Bay Regional Council (MBRC), Queensland, initiated this project to stabilise and protect the cliffs from coastal erosion, whilst also preserving the iconic aesthetic of the historically and culturally significant cliffs. Cliff Erosion Threatening Safety & Public Amenities Investigations into coastal processes and geotechnical conditions at the site found that the retreat of the cliffs was largely driven by slow notch erosion at the cliff base due to wave and tidal impacts, with some rotational collapse of the crest. The notch erosion at the base was then resulting in translational block failure of the overlying laterized cliff face, destabilisation of the upper cliff and undermining of vegetation. Aesthetic Integrity - a Key Design Factor While stabilising the cliffs was a key objective for project, it was essential for the design solution to also: preserve the iconic aesthetic of the cliffs as much as possible minimise impacts to the foreshore environment maximise usable beach width provide adaptability to sea level rise and climate change The Coastal Cliff Stabilisation Solution While multiple conventional design options were investigated (rock revetment walls, rock gabions and large-scale precast blockwork walls) these options were not able to suitably meet each of the project objectives, or required a significant footprint to be effective. The cliff stabilisation solution required an 'out of the box' and site-specific design approach to achieve the design objectives. ICM developed an innovative two part solution to protect the base of the cliff from notch erosion (lower cliff works) and enhance the resilience of the upper cliff (upper cliff works). Lower Cliff Design An innovative coloured and textured, fibre-reinforced shotcrete wall was designed to best mimic the natural form and aesthetic of the cliff, whilst protecting the lower cliff from erosion. The wall included soil nails to provide attachment to the cliff face and a bull nose wave return at the crest to reduce overtopping impacts to the upper cliff. Due to the extreme exposure to the marine environment, the structural reinforcement and soil nails were all comprised of non-corrosive Glass-Fibre Reinforced Polymer (GFRP). The drainage system was comprised of vertical strip-drains behind the wall with PVC weep holes to release water from the cliff. A geotextile wrapped ‘bladder’ of drainage aggregate was included at the toe to dissipate wave impact and prevent sediment loss due to water ingress through the weepholes. To provide some flexibility to the shotcrete, the wall was designed as a segmented structure, allowing for controlled shrinkage and displacement at specified intervals. Each of these intervals included a geotextile filter layer to prevent sediment loss, and GFRP dowels to allow for lateral expansion and contraction. The footprint of the design was significantly smaller than a conventional rock wall and maintained significantly more usable beach width, whilst producing an aesthetic that resembled the iconic cliffs. Upper Cliff Design A low impact and aesthetically friendly cliff stabilisation solution was required to improve the stability of the upper portion of the cliffs, whilst preserving the vibrant red earth. This included identifying all existing unstable vegetation, soil blocks, near vertical and overhanging sections of the cliff for removal; re-profiling the cliff crest to a more stable configuration and spray applying an environmentally safe soil stabiliser. The soil stabiliser was applied to reduce surface soil erosion due to rainfall run-off and wave overtopping, as well as limiting regrowth of unfavorable vegetation. The site-specific design provided a low impact and cost-effective stabilisation solution that retained the natural and iconic aesthetic of the red Scarborough Cliffs. Effective Resilience Against Storm Conditions The ‘hardening’ solution was designed to replicate the natural form and aesthetic of the existing cliff and included a ‘bullnose’ wave return at the crest to reduce overtopping and reflect wave energy similar to the existing conditions at the cliff. Several storm events have occurred since construction of the works was completed, including in December 2020 and a significant rainfall event in February 2022 due to ex-tropical cyclone Seth. These events have provided an opportunity to observe the performance of the structure against wave conditions that would have previously contributed to notch erosion at the base of the cliff. The post-construction monitoring has shown the following: The works have been successful in protecting the lower cliff from further erosion and preventing the retreat of the cliff. The drainage system has been successful in allow release of water from the cliff whilst preventing the loss of cliff sediments due to wave attack. The wave return has been successful in reducing wave attack and overtopping to the upper cliff. The shotcrete wall remains well integrated with the cliff face. Monitoring of the works is on-going. Advanced Technical Design and Monitoring Terrestrial Laser Scanning of the cliffs has undertaken by MBRC both prior to the works and following the works to serve as a ‘digital twin’ of the site. In conjunction with LiDAR survey and models, conceptual designs were able to be digitally tested for efficiency. Ongoing monitoring using advanced survey methods allows for accurate measurement of the site for detailed analysis. Need investigation or survey of a coastal site? Biological Benefit of Mimicking a Natural Cliff Face The shotcrete wall was carefully constructed to not only match the colour of the existing cliff face but also the texture. This mimicking of the natural conditions made the site not only visually cohesive but also allowed for the natural process of marine habitat creation, specifically for local mollusk species that have taken refuge in the texture of the shotcrete. Site Specific vs. Conventional While there were a variety of conventional coastal engineering solutions that would have been suitable for the site from a coastal protection standpoint, a 'beyond conventional' design approach was required to best achieve the objectives required by Moreton Bay Regional Council. For ICM, this is where our design capacity thrives. With a 'bespoke' approach to site specific design and coastal erosion solutions , we are able to continually achieve successful projects that require 'out of the box' approaches. For a comparative example, a site specific approach vs. conventional design approach is highlighted in the figure below. Leading the way in Innovative Coastal Engineering Designs For over 35 years of experience, International Coastal Management has been working to push the coastal engineering industry beyond conventional methodologies. Working with governments, private and public organisations across the globe we been bringing together the latest in technology and knowledge with coastal engineering experience and passion to derive the best and most cost effective solutions. Need a site specific solution to coastal erosion?

To support its goal of inclusive beach access, Ballina Lighthouse and Lismore SLSC sought to investigate permanent DDA-compliant beach access infrastructure. ICM was engaged to assess erosion vulnerability and provide feasibility advice for resilient ramp designs. Project Details: Client: Ballina Shire Council Date: 2021 Location: Lighthouse Beach, Ballina, NSW About This Project The Challenge: Ballina Lighthouse and Lismore Surf Life Saving Club, in collaboration with Ballina Shire Council, aimed to create a permanent, accessible beach access. However, the dynamic coastal conditions at Lighthouse Beach presented challenges, particularly in relation to long-term erosion, storm cut risk, and swash zone impacts. A detailed feasibility study was needed to identify a resilient design solution that would comply with DDA standards while remaining operational under future climate conditions. The Solution: ICM was engaged to assess three potential ramp options, balancing design intent with coastal hazard exposure. A 2D S-beach model was developed to simulate erosion risk from a range of design storm events, allowing for the determination of current and projected erosion hazard lines. Each design was assessed for: Erosion vulnerability Construction and maintenance implications Compatibility with existing infrastructure Safety, longevity, and operational access requirements Toe scour protection was also recommended as a necessary feature, given the structure’s exposure to active erosion zones. Services Provided: Site inspection & review 2D coastal modelling (S-beach) Erosion hazard line determination Long-term erosion and climate impact projections Design vulnerability and feasibility assessment Strategic recommendations for future construction Get in Touch: ICM has extensive experience delivering accessible, resilient coastal infrastructure along dynamic shorelines. Our team has worked with councils across Queensland and NSW to develop practical, cost-effective solutions that meet engineering standards, community needs, and environmental conditions. If your council or community organisation is considering an accessible beach access project, we’re here to help.

Coastal erosion is a global challenge threatening shorelines and communities worldwide. The Living Speed Bumps concept , developed by International Coastal Management (ICM), is a transformative approach to coastal resilience. It offers a sustainable alternative to traditional hard engineering methods, focusing on slowing sand movement while working with natural processes rather than against them. This soft-engineering methodology strikes a delicate balance between protecting coastlines and preserving the natural flow of sand, delivering adaptable and sustainable solutions for vulnerable beaches. Table of Contents What Are Living Speed Bumps? What is Coastal Resilience? A Changing Environment The Coastal Resilience Framework Working in Nature vs. Working With Nature The Living Speed Bumps Design Philosophy Proven Applications of Living Speed Bumps Living Speed Bumps: The Future. Oceanside, CA   Why Choose Living Speed Bumps? Challenges and Adaptations   A Vision for Coastal Resilience What Are Living Speed Bumps?  The Living Speed Bumps  approach refers to strategically placed coastal features designed to reduce the speed of local longshore sand transport and retain sand for longer periods, allowing dunes and beaches to stabilise without downdrift impacts. Unlike contemporary engineering solutions like breakwaters and groynes that disrupt natural processes, living speed bumps slow sand movement while maintaining its fluidity, enabling natural ecosystems to adapt and thrive.  This concept is implemented through two complementary components:  Onshore Speed Bumps: Structures like artificial headlands or low/short by-passable berms  Offshore Speed Bumps: Submerged reefs or breakwaters placed offshore to reduce/tailor wave energy and promote sand retention in the nearshore zone  While some coastlines may benefit from a single component, such as a series of onshore speed bumps or a standalone offshore speed bump, others may require both elements working in tandem. Determining the best solution for a site requires the expertise of a specialised coastal engineering company . Our team's tailored approach ensures that each project aligns with local environmental conditions and community needs, creating a dynamic solution that protects coastlines while supporting their natural evolution.  What is Coastal Resilience?  Coastal resilience is the capacity of coastal communities, ecosystems, and infrastructure to adapt to, withstand, recover from, and thrive despite challenges such as coastal erosion , storm surges, sea-level rise, and climate change. At its core, resilience means 'the ability to return quickly to a previous good condition after a problem or negative change'. In a coastal context, resilience can be assessed across various interconnected areas, including: Physical Shoreline   Environmental Health Community Wellbeing Financial Viability Regulatory Compliance Each of these factors plays a critical role in shaping resilient coastal solutions. From a physical perspective, coastlines are inherently dynamic and often display natural resilience. This is evident on most sandy coastlines, where the ‘ beach erosion ’ and ‘accretion’ pattern (the dotted red line) happens cyclically. During storm seasons, waves break up into the swash zone and erode the dune system . This sand is washed out into the storm bars which help then to reduce further erosion by breaking the waves. During calmer conditions, low wave energy ‘pushes’ the storm bar back into the swash zone, and wind helps to push dry sand back up into the dunes. Typically, new sand makes its way into the system to replace sand that also might have been lost.   Natural Coastal Resilience Response A Changing Environment Changes occur along our coastlines, it is inevitable, the coastal environment is highly dynamic. Some of these are due to natural changes and many are due to human influenced changes. If one of these conditions changes the balance, resilience potential will be disrupted. Examples include: Top of beach : the dunes are removed or built on  Bottom of beach : disruptive offshore structures  Sediment supply : blocked river previously supplying sand to a site or diminishing coral reef which previously provided sand to a site  The Coastal Resilience Framework Building coastal resilience requires a comprehensive approach that addresses three critical components: the Top of Beach, the Bottom of Beach, and the Sediment Supply. The Top of Beach focuses on protecting and restoring dunes and other dry beach areas that act as the first line of defence against erosion and storm surges. The Bottom of Beach ensures the stability of the nearshore zone which includes the subtidal and intertidal areas that dissipate wave energy and support marine ecosystems . Sediment Supply involves managing sand sources, minimising disruptions, and promoting balanced sediment movement to sustain the beach system. By integrating solutions that improve all three factors while allowing natural processes to thrive, this framework lays the foundation for building coastal resilience. It is a holistic, sustainable approach that prioritises long-term adaptation, environmental health, and community protection. This methodology reflects decades of ICM research and practical experience, offering a proven pathway for resilient and thriving coastlines. Working in Nature vs. Working With Nature Coastal engineering has undergone a significant evolution over the years, moving from approaches that block natural processes to those that embrace and work with them. Understanding this transition is key to creating sustainable coastal resilience solutions today. The Evolution of Coastal Engineering Most coastal solutions are heavily engineered. This is because coastal engineering is derived from civil engineering, and solutions were traditionally incorporated into coastal ports and harbours. These structures required keeping natural processes out (or to a minimum). Waves and moving sand bars within a harbour or marina is not ideal. In fact, it can be dangerous, especially when loading and unloading goods. So, for improved functionality and trade potential, harbours were designed to be unnaturally calm under even the most significant storm events. Requiring large, hard engineering barriers to avoid the natural processes. This was fundamentally an ‘avoid’ approach . Adapting for Beachfront Communities As the popularity of beachfront living increased, the 'change' approach emerged. Engineers developed strategies and structures to alter natural processes, reducing erosion to protect properties and infrastructure. This phase prioritised human needs over the natural environment. Transitioning to ‘Working With Nature’ The modern era of coastal engineering has introduced a ‘working with nature’ or 'reduce' approach . Rather than avoid or change natural processes, it aims to ‘reduce’ and slow down the process to retain beaches for extended periods of time.   This approach was pioneered on the Gold Coast in the 1980’s by our Founder Angus Jackson , with the introduction of coastal solutions such as Nearshore Nourishment , which strategically places sand to create ‘designer sand banks’ that can nourish the beach slowly with natural cycles. The ‘reduce’ approach focused on creating ‘speed bumps’ in the coastal zone, which led to the development of multipurpose artificial reefs  (another concept pioneered on the Gold Coast with Angus Jackson ). The development of the sand bypassing  technology then allowed the Gold Coast to address the bottom of the beach, the sediment supply which led to the stabilisation of the top of the beach where significant coastal dune systems  were developed, monitored and managed over the past few decades.   An Example Below in an example of the ‘avoid’ approach (by others) with a significant, emergent breakwater vs. the ‘reduce’ approach  by ICM on the same coastline, in the UAE.  The submerged living speed bump allowed natural processes to occur at the site while maintaining a stable beach for 8 years (as per the contract agreement). The Living Speed Bumps Design Philosophy At its core, the Living Speed Bumps methodology prioritises:  Working With Nature : Slowing natural processes rather than stopping them, allowing sand to move but at a controlled pace that reduces erosion.  Soft Solutions : Favouring flexible, low-impact designs over rigid infrastructure to ensure harmony with coastal ecosystems.  Adaptability : Designing systems that evolve or can be adapted to changing environmental conditions, such as rising sea levels and shifting wave patterns.  Scalability : Tailoring solutions to fit local conditions and expanding them as necessary to address larger areas of coastline. Proven Applications of Living Speed Bumps The Living Speed Bumps concept is not theoretical - it has been successfully implemented in several key projects by ICM  around the world. Each project demonstrates the flexibility and effectiveness of this approach in different coastal contexts:  1. Narrowneck Reef, Gold Coast, Australia Onshore Speed Bump: An existing artificial headland. Offshore Speed Bump: The Narrowneck artificial reef , designed to reduce wave energy and retain sand while creating a habitat for marine life.  Impact: The project enhanced sand retention along the shoreline, improved surfing in certain conditions, and supported biodiversity.    2. Maroochydore, Queensland, Australia Onshore Speed Bumps: Low, ‘soft’ berms were installed to stabilise sand flow and protect the beach from erosion.   Impact: Sand and waves naturally pass over the berms to maintain natural processes along the beach over the ‘speed bumps’ while reducing beach erosion.     3. United Arab Emirates: Submerged Rock Reef Breakwater Offshore Speed Bump: A submerged rock reef breakwater was constructed to reduce wave energy and encourage sand deposition.  Impact: The breakwater successfully stabilised the coastline, providing a sustainable solution for managing erosion while preserving natural sand movement.  4. United Arab Emirates: Offshore geotextile reef and low crested groynes Offshore Speed Bump: A geotextile reef was installed offshore to reduce wave energy and promote sand retention in the nearshore zone.  Onshore Speed Bumps: Low geotextile groynes were implemented along the coastline to complement the reef, managing sand movement effectively.  Impact: This combined approach created a more stable coastline and enhanced long-term resilience against erosion.  Living Speed Bumps: The Future. Oceanside, CA  ICM’s innovative Living Speed Bumps concept is now being implemented in Oceanside, California, as part of our winning proposal for the Re:Beach Design Competition launched by the city and GHD. The project includes:  Onshore Artificial Headlands : Located at Tyson Street Park and Wisconsin Avenue, these structures act as speed bumps to slow sand flow along the top of the beach, helping stabilise sand and create new green spaces for community use.  Offshore Artificial Reef : Positioned between the headlands, this reef reduces wave energy, supports sand retention in the nearshore zone, fosters new marine habitats, and can enhance surf amenity in the reef’s vicinity. The design builds on proven methodologies from ICM’s work on the Gold Coast  and other locations, tailored to Oceanside’s unique coastal conditions. Public engagement played a critical role, with community input emphasising the importance of sand retention, recreational space, and protecting surfing conditions. As a dynamic and scalable solution, Living Speed Bumps offer Oceanside a practical way to reduce erosion while setting a global precedent for innovative coastal resilience.  The Oceanside project is a pilot project and will be heavily monitored in the lead up to the implementation, during and after construction to ensure that the outcomes are met and inform any future decisions or projects along the California coastline. Why Choose Living Speed Bumps?  The Living Speed Bumps approach offers several advantages over contemporary coastal protection methods:  Longevity: By working with natural processes, this concept minimises environmental disruption and can enhance ecosystem health.  Cost-Effectiveness: ‘Soft’ or low’ solutions are often more affordable than large, rigid infrastructure, making them ideal for resource-limited settings. Note that with lower capital costs, maintenance programs should be in place to achieve longevity  Flexibility: Living Speed Bumps can be tailored to suit diverse coastal environments and expanded as needed. The choice of materials, whether geotextile , rock, basalt, or even oyster-based structures, depends on the site’s unique conditions and is guided by ICM’s engineering expertise to ensure maximum effectiveness.  Community Benefits: By preserving beaches, improving accessibility, and enhancing recreational opportunities, these solutions strengthen community connections to the coast while addressing pressing erosion challenges.  Environmental Benefits : Living Speed Bumps encourage biodiversity by creating habitats for marine and coastal species. They promote natural sediment movement and retention, and can integrate nature-based solutions .   This adaptable and sustainable approach makes Living Speed Bumps an innovative choice for building resilient coastlines.  Challenges and Adaptations  While the Living Speed Bumps methodology has proven effective, each project presents unique challenges. Key considerations include:  Environmental Sensitivities: Ensuring that designs support local ecosystems and species  Balancing Competing Needs: Managing trade-offs between sand retention, surfing conditions, public access, capital costs vs. maintenance costs   Long-Term Monitoring: Establishing robust post-construction monitoring programs to assess effectiveness and make data-driven adjustments.  ICM’s extensive experience allows for adaptive management, ensuring that solutions remain effective in the face of dynamic coastal processes.  A Vision for Coastal Resilience  Living Speed Bumps represent a transformative approach to coastal resilience, offering an alternative to contemporary engineering methods. By slowing natural processes rather than changing/blocking them, this methodology provides a more harmonious balance between protection, adaptation, and environmental preservation.  As climate change intensifies and coastal erosion accelerates, the need for innovative, solutions like Living Speed Bumps has never been greater. From the Gold Coast to Oceanside, ICM continues to lead the way in developing and implementing cutting-edge designs that protect shorelines and empower communities. Interested in learning more about Living Speed Bumps or collaborating on a coastal resilience project? Contact us today to explore tailored solutions for your coastline.

Following Tropical Cyclone Debbie in 2017, the existing revetment at Conway Beach was deemed as severely damaged. A replacement rock seawall was designed by ICM and constructed to protect critical infrastructure, improve coastal resilience, and enhance public access. Project Details: Client: Whitsunday Regional Council Date: 2018 – 2019 Location: Conway Beach, Queensland About This Project The Challenge: Severe storm events, including Tropical Cyclone Debbie, had caused significant damage to the existing revetment at Conway Beach, leaving critical public infrastructure - including Penhallurick Esplanade, the carpark, and foreshore amenities - at risk of further erosion. Without intervention, continued coastal recession could have led to infrastructure failure, loss of public access, and increased maintenance costs. A durable, cost-effective coastal protection solution was required to safeguard the foreshore while enhancing public access and beach amenity. The Solution: ICM was engaged to assess, design, and oversee the construction of a replacement rock seawall, ensuring a long-term, resilient coastal protection strategy. Detailed Design: A comprehensive site assessment informed the optimal seawall design and construction approach. The seawall was designed to protect critical infrastructure while reducing wind-blown sand, enhancing public access, and minimising long-term maintenance costs. Construction Inspection & Certification: Construction was undertaken by East Coast Civil Contracting between February – June 2019. ICM provided construction inspection and certification services, ensuring full conformance with design requirements and approval conditions. Final RPEQ certification was provided upon completion, confirming compliance with engineering and environmental standards. "We were proud to design a rock wall solution for Whitsunday Regional Council that safeguarded critical infrastructure, remained cost-effective, and provided continued community access to the coastline." - Aaron Salyer, ICM Services Provided: Coastal Engineering & Design Condition Assessment & Site Inspection Detailed Rock Seawall Design Construction Supervision & Certification Erosion & Coastal Resilience Planning Get in Touch: ICM has decades of experience delivering coastal protection solutions across Queensland, ensuring durable, low-maintenance infrastructure for councils and coastal asset managers. If your site requires seawall design, erosion control, or emergency coastal protection, get in touch with us today. Contact us to discuss your project needs.

Shorelines are always changing and require coastal erosion solutions to prevent land loss or structural damage. The severity of the erosion can vary significantly depending on the site conditions and season. Some beach erosion occurs naturally during storm seasons, however, at a ‘healthy beach’ the sand will 'self-re-nourish’ over time. Human interference at the site (or nearby sites), can disrupt the natural, dynamic cycle and therefore a coastal erosion solution (or multiple solutions) are required. Coastal engineers have developed processes and procedures to evaluate the causes or erosion and determine the most suitable outcomes for the site, taking into consideration things like: The natural site conditions Coastal erosion solution type (hard armour, softer solutions including green and blue solutions) Cost Aesthetics Disruption to surrounding areas Longevity and Durability The following article reviews the causes behind erosion, the erosion process, different coastal erosion solutions and the method by which the best suited design should be determined. What is Coastal Erosion? In most cases, coastal erosion relates to beach loss. This can lead to property loss and severe damage. Defined as the mechanical grinding and wearing away of natural surfaces, erosion can happen in a variety of ways and over a range of time. Beach erosion does occur naturally and, in some cases, can be temporary. It is possible to measure and explain the retreat of the shoreline by using the tides, the seasons, and other short-term cyclic events in a site investigation study. This will be used to determine the best solution for the site. Coastal Erosion Causes Coastal erosion is the process by which sand, soil and rocks are removed from the coastline by natural forces such as water, waves, currents, tides, wind-driven water, waterborne ice, and other types of storm impacts. Depending on where you are in the world it could be any one or a combination of forces that is causing the erosion. Each process can have different impacts. There are however, a lot of beach erosion prevention solutions . Effects of Coastal Erosion Different types of coastline are affected differently by erosion. In areas where rock layers meet the sea, coastal erosion produces rock formations. Softer sections erode much faster than tougher ones, resulting in landforms like as natural bridges, pillars, and columns. Typically, the coastline levels off with time. The softer areas get filled with silt and sand eroded from the harder areas, and the rock formations are eroded away. Leaving headlands. These kinds of large-scale erosion happen over very long periods of time and in most cases coastal communities or private properties are concerned with the more short-term effects that are already causing land loss or damage to property. Without proper design coastal erosion solution, the land loss and damage can intensify quickly, especially heading towards storm season. How is Erosion Caused by Rivers? In many coastal areas where rivers meet the sea, there are waterways directly affected by river erosion. When water erodes the banks of a river or waterway, it is termed river bank erosion. Although river bank erosion is a natural process, it may be accelerated by human activity. Common elements leading to river and waterway bank erosion consist of: Removal of natural vegetation along the river bank Excess flooding and rain Interference with the natural tidal flow of the water way The consequences of erosion on river banks are not confined to the area in which the erosion is taking place; rather, they are likely to be felt farther downstream as well. As a result of erosion, more debris is carried downstream, which may change the course of the river and obstruct navigation routes. There are several ways coastal erosion solutions specifically for river banks/canal ways and marine waterways that will be discussed further below. What are the Effects of Wind Erosion? The natural process known as "wind erosion" involves the movement of soil from one location to another by the force exerted by the wind. It is possible that it may do significant damage to landscape and infrastructure. Wind erosion may be caused by even a gentle breeze that moves soil particles over the surface, but a strong wind can produce dust or sand storms by lifting a significant number of soil particles into the air. Even though wind erosion is more common in arid regions, coastal sand dunes, and beaches, certain geographical features may also cause wind erosion. Therefore, wind is a primary agent of erosion; nevertheless, the topography and condition of the land are mostly to blame for the wind erosion that does the greatest damage. Reducing the impacts of wind erosion are one of the considerations covered in the design of coastal erosion solutions and are discussed in more detail in the sections below. Sea Level Affecting Erosion? According to The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change coastal erosion will accelerate globally as a result of sea level rise induced by climate change, resulting in severe changes to coastlines and low-lying coastal regions. There is no doubt that as sea level rises and storm severity increases there will be significantly more strain on coastline and coastal properties/infrastructure. In coastal engineering design (especially in the case of coastal erosion solutions) sea level rise is taken into consideration. There are various computer model predictions used around the globe to look at expected sea level rise amounts over the coming 100 years. There are also accepted sea level rise values that have been adopted in different locations which should be used in the design process by coastal engineers. Examples of Coastal Erosion Processes There are three main types of coastal erosion processes: Hydraulic action - this is the force of the waves when they slam on the rock. Abrasion occurs when pebbles scrape on a rock platform, similar to sandpaper. Attrition occurs when boulders carried by the water collide with one another. Each process result in slightly different outcomes. And in many cases, site erosion can include a combination of all three. The design process for coastal erosion solutions can take into consideration the different erosion process to bes determine which solution will give the best outcome. How to Prevent Coastal Erosion In different parts of the world, people have tried a wide range of different strategies to cut down on the amount of beach erosion. Although a few of these tactics have shown to be very successful, each one comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. They typical process to prevent coastal erosion is to first study the site, find out why the erosion is occurring, then review different strategies and solution methodologies to determine which (or what combination) will work best for the site. Coastal erosion solutions should be designed by professional coastal engineers as it has been proven time and time again that incorrect installation of erosion control methods can actually do more damage and cause greater levels of erosion both locally at the site and in nearby sites. Coastal Erosion Solutions The only real way to stop erosion from happening is to stop the natural process (ie. stop the wind and waves). In some cases, this is possible, where high visual impact is not a concern, however, in many cases to completely stop the natural conditions will drastically impact the site (both visually and environmentally), and therefore a level of reduction would be acceptable. There are a few different approaches to coastal erosion solutions, including the following main types: Hard coastal erosion solutions Hard Coastal erosion solutions are considered to be a form of structural defence that are designed by coastal engineers to stop or reduce wave or tidal impacts on shoreline or existing structures. There are several different types of hard structures: Seawalls Seawalls are not only used as a beach erosion prevention method, but they can be used in a variety of site scenarios including reclamation and river banks/waterways. Seawalls can be made from a varity of material and designed in different ways to perform as required on site. Some of the different types of seawalls are highlighted below: Curved Face Seawall A seawall with a curved face is intended to resist intense wave action. Curved faced seawalls are typically made from concrete and direct wave energy up the curve to dissipate the energy rather than reflect the energy (which happens in vertical walls). Stepped Face Seawall A seawall with a stepped face is used to moderate wave action. This type of seawall is made out of reinforced concrete sheet piles that are put together with tongue-and-groove joints (it can also be made using gabions or geotextile sand containers ). Between the piles, the spaces are either filled with grout to make a sand-proof cut-off wall or geotextile fiber is installed at the back of the sheet pile to make a sand-tight barrier. Putting down geotextile is a good idea because it lets water seep through and stops water pressure from building up. Rubble Mounded Seawall Design and development properly this seawall layout may be simpler and less expensive that the others mentioned above. It can withstand very powerful wave energy as it’s permeable finish allows for good wave dissipation. They are also slightly ‘flexible’ in that even though the beach becomes eroded at the base of the structre, the seawall's quarry stone may be readjusted and settled without structural collapse. Bulkhead or Quay Walls / Vertical Walls Bulkheads may be made from concrete, steel, or wood. There are two primary types: gravity structures and sheet pile walls. Vertical walls general suite locations that are not subjected to very powerful wave movements and their primary function may be to retain soil, but the designer must consider scour at the structure's base. Cellular sheet pile bulkheads are used when rock is near to the surface and sufficient penetration for an anchored bulkhead cannot be attained. Sheet pile design should be done by coastal engineering specialists that take into consideration the various strain moments on the wall. Groynes Gryones (or Groins) are shoreline protection structures that reduce coastal erosion by altering offshore current and wave patterns. Groyne may be constructed from concrete, stone, steel, or wood, and their classification depends on their length, height, and permeability. Groynes impact the natural longshore flow of sand and cause a jigsaw like finish to a shoreline and must be designed correctly otherwise they can create down drift erosion problems. Breakwaters Breakwaters can be either connected to shore or completely dethatched from shore (offshore breakwaters). They are popular form of coastal erosion solution for areas that want uninterrupted access to the beach front (unlike groynes that disrupt the beach flow). Breakwaters can be designed and built to have varying levels of wave energy reduction. From full wave reduction (when the breakwater crest emerges fully out of the water high enough to block storm waves). They can also be low-lying (semi submerged) which can significantly reduce the wave energy without being visible all of the time (and also using less material to build resulting in cheaper installation costs). Artificial Reefs Built offshore and out of site, these can be some of the best solutions for sites that want low visual impact. Artificial reefs are designed to be multifunctional and can both reduce wave energy on shore while enhancing the local marine habitat and environment. Unlike offshore breakwaters that can be highly emergent out of the water and reduce all the wave energy, artificial reefs are always submerged and allow some wave energy to pass over. Depending on the size of the artificial reef (height below the water level and crest width) the reef can be designed specifically to take out certain amount wave energy to allow for energy reduction while keeping water flow/circulation at the site. Designing Multi Purpose Artificial Reefs can have significant improvement on coastal resilience. Floating Barriers Compared to the more traditional fixed breakwaters, floating breakwaters provide an alternate approach to the problem of protecting a site from waves. It is more likely to be successful in coastal regions when the wave environment is relatively calm. As a result, they are more often used with the purpose of reducing erosion at a waterway entrance and preserving small boat harbors and marinas. A few of the factors that work in favour of floating breakwaters are as follows: Deep water – for sites with deep water can be a cheaper alternative to use floating breakwater to save on large volume of material required to breach the surface Less disruption to flow of fish species – the floating barrier allows for marine life to pass with minimal disruption, compared to large, solid structures Different Types of Material Used for Hard Coastal Erosion Solutions There are several different coastal erosion solutions that can be used at one site. And often a combination will render the best results. There are several different materials that can be used to build the different design options. And there is no ‘best’ option as each site will be different and have different requirements both for the outcome of the erosion protection, costs, visual and environmental impacts. Rock In many different coastal environments around the world, rock is used for coastal erosion solution structures. The process of rock design and construction is very well document and analysed with precise formulas derived to determine suitable rock wall slope, height, width and layer thickness. Depending on where in the world the site is located, there may be access to different grades of rock. Rock typically used for large scale construction comes from quarries and is broken specifically into a variety of sizes for use in the rock wall design. Each rock type has different density and therefore will have different design qualities. Rock is so commonly used because of a few reasons: It is permeable, which means some of the wave energy can actually pass through the rock itself, which acts as a way to dampen the wave energy without completely reflecting the wave energy as per a flat surface. It is slightly flexible, which means that if small shifts in the seabed occur the rock has the ability to settle into gaps without loosing structural integrity. Unlike a solid concrete surface for instance that can crack and loose shape if it shifts slightly due to sand loss underneath the structure. It is relatively easy to build. Staking rocks is typically a simpler installation process than some of the more technical product alternatives Sand Filled Geotextile Containers More and more, shore protection structures, especially along sandy coasts, are being asked to have less of an effect on the environment and the way things look than traditional structures like groynes and revetments. Also, these measures of reinforcement and protection must be cost-effective. This means using local materials and no heavy equipment, especially when the necessary infrastructure is not there. As a fill material, geo-containers have the advantage of being able to use the sand that is native to the area even in places where there is no access to rock material. As a direct result of this, it is possible that transportation costs and the environmental impacts they cause will be reduced. Because geocontainers may be transported up to a certain size without the need for heavy equipment, this might lead to a reduction in the costs associated with constructing. In contrast to conventional revetments and other types of hard structures, geocontainer constructions can easily be removed if needed (for temporary emergency erosion protection). Large scale geotextile containers can also be used for coastal protection structures. The size of the tubes can vary depending on the requirements of the design, however, can be large (a few meters high) and weigh thousands of tones once filled. These large tubes can be used on shore or underwater and can either be a standalone structure or tied into a rock design whereby the sand filled geocontaienr is used as a filler or core for a rock design to reduce the rock volume required. There are also different shaped geotextile container frames that are more rigid and stand up to be filled in long barriers. These can be stacked or integrated into other coastal designs. Concrete Concrete has been used in coastal erosion solutions for a very long time. It can fundamentally take on any shape or form and the results of the protection structure can vary significantly. The benefits of using concrete in the marine environment, is that it is often easily to source and builders are experienced with using it. It can also be poured on location into many different kinds of moulds or shapes as needed. The downside of using construe is that while it is strong and durable, it is also brittle and does not handle flexibility which is critical in the marine environment. This will depend greatly on the actual design and where the concrete structures are located. Structures made of reinforced concrete that are placed in maritime settings often experience deterioration in the early stages of their service lives. This happens most quickly in the splash zone, where there is a lot of oxygen, which speeds up corrosion, and where wet and dry conditions make chloride penetration worse. Moisture in the concrete also makes it better at conducting electricity, which leads to rust pitting, a type of aggressive localized corrosion. This causes steel parts to break off quickly and the concrete to crack and chip. In tidal and underwater areas where the concrete is saturated with water, oxygen levels are low because the concrete pores are always being filled with water. But corrosion can still happen in places where there isn't much concrete, which makes it hard to fix. Wood Wood has been traditionally used in coastal erosion solutions for centuries and is still popular in certain locations around the globe. It is used because of cost and aesthetic. Wood has been used to make a variety of coastal erosion solutions for a very long time. This is because wood has a lot of good qualities that are important for building in water. Some of them are For how much it weighs, it has a lot of strength It is often easy to source It's easy to use and keeps going for a long time It doesn't get damaged easily. Wood can be cut to any size, which makes it easy to use for any project and makes it very useful. Overall, hardwoods are better than softwoods because they can last longer and stand up to wear and tear better. There are many great ways to use tropical hardwoods. Ekki and Greenheart are two of the most popular ones. But Balau and Jarrah, which are also tropical hardwoods, have also been used for water projects. Gabions Gabions are wire baskets with a mesh manufactured from galvanized steel wire or heavy duty marine plastic. The "boxes" are filled with hard rock pieces and piled to create a gravity wall or other coastal erosion solutions. Gabion walls rely largely on the compactness and weight of the rock pieces to ensure interior stability and withstand hydraulic and earth forces. Gabions are permeable, like rock in coastal design which allows for better absorption of wave energy. They also require relatively low-level construction process and minimal machinery which can work great for remote sites. Soft Coastal Erosion Solutions Using natural processes to safeguard the coastline, soft engineering may be a more sustainable, long-term, and can be more cost-effective method to coastal defence depending on the site. ‘Soft’ basically means that no ‘hard’ or structural coastal erosion solutions are built to directly reduce wave energy. Examples of soft erosion solutions include: Beach replenishment entails importing beach-quality sediments to "top up" beaches. Sand dune management may include the construction of walkways, ladders, and boardwalks to avoid human deterioration of the beach. Locally lowering the water table under the beach face so that sand accumulates over the drainage system. Nearshore nourishment is a great way to achieve mass volume for lower cost Green/Blue Coastal Erosion Solutions Nature has developed some amazing, natural beach erosion prevention methods. These can be considered green (for terrestrial/land based vegetation) and blue (marine/underwater vegetation/flora). Here are are a few examples of different types of natural coastal erosion solutions. Artificial Reefs These also fit into a blue/green solution and can be eco-engineered into promotion of local marine growth and tailored specifically to attract local fish species. Artificial reefs can vary significantly in design, to be large masses which create offshore volume to significantly reduce wave energy offshore. Or they can be small purpose built products that individually have low impact, but when added in mass can create significant change. Coral Planting Natural coral reefs protect shorelines from waves, storms, and floods, hence preventing loss of marine life, damage to property, and erosion. When reefs are damaged or destroyed, the lack of natural barrier may enhance the damage caused by regular wave action and major storms to coastal settlements. Natural coral reefs are amazing barriers for wave energy reduction and have been shown to reduce wave energy by up to 97% . In areas where natural corals have significantly died, coral fragments can be planted. These can come from either coral farms (onshore or offshore) or directly re-positions in an act called coral transplanting. While planting corals on a reef may have a long-term improvement on wave energy reduction, it will rely heavily on the outcome of the corals ability to survive. In most cases where the coral has degraded to the point that it is no longer acting as a wave reduction barrier. It is likely got to that point by an array of external influences, whether natural causes or human influenced. Unless these external factors are also addressed it is likely the newly planted corals may also face the same level of eventual decline. Therefore, coral as a solution on its own may not be enough for a coastal erosion solution. Mangrove Planting Despite the fact that mangrove forests are often situated on coasts with low wave energy, they can experience greater waves during storms, hurricanes, and times of severe winds. Flooding and damage to coastal infrastructure may be caused by high winds and surge waves. Mangroves may possibly lessen related damage by lowering wave energy and height. Wave height may be reduced by between 13 and 66 percent when mangroves are present at distances of more than 100 meters. Near the border of the mangrove forest is where waves experience the largest rate of wave height reduction per unit mile as they begin their trip through the mangroves. In addition to mangrove trees, oyster reefs within the mangrove system area a great nature based solution . Dune Vegetation Planting With beach nourishment (soft solution) artificial sand dunes can be created or built back up to a desired level. Combined with a hard solution (dune barrier which is buried under the new dunes as an emergency last resort), the dunes can also be planted with regionally available dune vegetation. These plants 'hold' the dune sand in place and help to reduce loss from wind erosion. How to know which coast erosion solution is right for your site? Determining the right coastal erosion solution for your site can seem overwhelming at first. There are a whole myriad of options of varying costs and style with varying results. For the majority of cases, you are going to want to use a professional coastal engineer to review the site and determine which option are the most suitable. In many cases, the most effective beach erosion prevention approach will be to implement a combination of coastal erosion solutions. The basic process in which best to determine is as follows this step by step process: Step 1. Initial discussion with coastal engineer This will help to determine what is happening at the site, the desired outcome of the design so that the engineer can get local knowledge of the site Step 2. Price proposal made This is when the coastal engineers offer a price proposal to investigate further/do the required design works Step 3 . Option Assessment & Concept Designs Concept designs are developed for the site, looking at a few select options with their potential outcomes and costs Step 4 . A review of the concepts (client and engineer) This offers the client time to review the concept designs to see which the preferable method of approach based on costs, predicted outcomes, aesthetic, etc. Step 5. A detailed design for construction Detailed design is done by the coastal engineer which includes design drawings that can be taken by a marine contractor and used to build the design on site Considerations in the design process also include: Sit specific information Depending on the location of the site, a sit survey may be required to collect both land and underwater survey levels, tide, wind and wave data Local design sand environmental standards Different regions of the world have different design standards that may need to be adhered to Approvals Generally, in marine design and construction there is an approval process required before the works can take place. The approval takes into consideration environmental impacts on the site and surrounding area

Cyclone Alfred put the Gold Coast’s coastal resilience system to the test, sparking widespread media discussion on beach erosion, recovery timelines, and coastal resilience. Over the past week, ICM’s coastal engineers have been featured on major TV, radio, and digital media outlets, providing expert insights into how the coastline is responding. From Channel 7’s Sunrise to ABC News and national radio, ICM's Angus Jackson and Aaron Salyer explained why erosion is a natural process, how our engineered systems are protecting valuable infrastructure, and what’s next for beach recovery. Below, we’ve compiled key takeaways, expert quotes, and highlights from our media appearances. Channel 9 News TV Interview, 8 March 2025 | Angus Jackson joined Channel 9 News to discuss the impact of Cyclone Alfred on the Gold Coast's beaches and how the city’s coastal resilience strategies have performed under extreme conditions. Alison Ariotti, Channel 9 News: "What is the process for people at home to understand that the beaches need to go through to fix this erosion?" "What normally happens is an event like this is Council closes the access ways to the beach, which they've done to try and stop people getting onto the beach, and not being able to get off, because at high tide, there is no beach. There's vertical scarps with waves hitting them, and we've all seen that on TV over the last few days. Council generally then comes along and and knocks the scarps down to make them safe." - Angus Jackson, International Coastal Management 4BC with Gary Hardgrave Radio Interview, 11 March 2025 | Aaron Salyer joined Gary Hardgrave on 4BC Radio to discuss the Gold Coast Mayor’s plan to restore the beaches and how coastal infrastructure played a crucial role in limiting storm damage. Gary Hardgrave, 4BC: " I know they put rock walls and groins in certain spots, that's to stop some of the prevailing currents moving sand up and down the coast. Some beaches get fuller at the expense of others and so forth. Is there any other solution that we can do or this is just it, you get a big cyclone, it's going to suck the sand out, you got to pump it back or wait for it to come back over a period of time." "There is, but there's a couple of good points you made. So under the sand dunes along the Gold Coast, pretty much for the majority of the stretch, there's a buried rock wall ( terminal seawall ). So that was put in after those cyclonic events of the 60s and 70s where, houses were falling in, and roads were falling into the sea." "So it really creates that, that sort of last backstop, for worst case events like this one. Thankfully for the majority of the Gold Coast, dunes are built in front/on top of that rock wall, which are actually artificial dunes , or 'urban dunes', so they're put there by design to create this natural buffer between the sea and that submerged rock wall. Most of the Gold Coast hasn't even exposed that worst case scenario rock wall buried under the dunes. So, for the most part the dune system really is doing its job and actually acting as a natural buffer, because what we don't see all the way up and down the Gold Coast are properties and roads falling into the sea." - Aaron Salyer, International Coastal Management ABC Drive with Bern Young Radio Interview, 11 March 2025 | Angus Jackson sat down with Bern Young on ABC Gold Coast Drive to share a historical perspective on coastal engineering and how past cyclones shaped today’s Gold Coast resilience strategies. Bern Young, ABC Gold Coast: "My guest is Angus Jackson. Now he's an executive coastal engineer with International Coastal Management, his own company after being Council's coastal engineer for a very long time, and a very important time in Council's history. Some people call you the godfather of the coastal protection system that we have. And this includes things like bypassing, backpassing , dune restoration , what we've seen with the sand pumping to create the super bank at one end, world leader in artificial reefs . [...] And he reckons the beaches have well and truly passed a major stress test. with Alfred." "The beaches are in great condition and that's not by luck. That's by good engineering. We lost our beaches in the 67 event and it took a long time to get them back. In fact, in 1967, the Gold Coast nearly went bankrupt because our beaches disappeared. That left a legacy in our DNA - we were never going to let that happen again. Today, we have seawalls , artificial reefs , and an entire system designed for events like this." - Angus Jackson, International Coastal Management Channel 7's Sunrise TV Interview, 12 March 2025 | Aaron Salyer joined Matt Shirvington and Natalie Barr on Channel 7's Sunrise to explain the science behind beach erosion and how the Gold Coast is planning for a faster recovery. Matt Shirvington, Sunrise : " What about the sand? Because so much of it has been basically washed back into the ocean. How do we get it back on the beaches?" "The way these beach systems work is they're quite highly dynamic. Erosion is actually a natural process. So the dune systems up on the top of the beach get hit by high impact storms. Some of that sand goes out into the offshore zone, which create those offshore sandbars. Now those offshore sandbars over time will naturally start to wash back in and rebuild this naturally." "That could be over, the course of a matter of months. It could even be, up to a couple of years to fully recover. But here on the Gold Coast, we just can't wait that long. We're too dependent on this beach, not only as a soft infrastructure, but as an asset. To the community. So the Gold Coast Council is going to step in hurry that along by doing things like bringing in a big dredge to actually shift that sand from offshore onto the onshore zone." - Aaron Salyer, International Coastal Management Sydney 2SM with Chris Smith Radio Interview, 13 March 2025 | Angus Jackson joined Chris Smith on Sydney’s 2SM Radio to discuss where the sand has gone - and how Gold Coast’s innovative sand management policies ensure beach recovery. "We've got policies in place, so any dredging in the broadwater, that sand goes to the beach. The Gold Coast beaches are incredibly managed. So at the moment, we pump sand across from the Tweed River from New South Wales into Queensland." "And then that sand travels along the Gold Coast and at the northern end, at the seaway, the Nerang River, sands pump northwards to continue its route. Times like this they turn on the tap and they pump back south to surfers paradise. So once that pipeline has been restored, there'll be a recirculation of sand." - Angus Jackson, International Coastal Management Channel 7's Sunrise with Sam Mac TV Interview, 14 March 2025 | Aaron Salyer joined Sam Mac on Channel 7's Sunrise to check in on how the Gold Coast beaches were holding up post-cyclone. Sam Mac, Sunrise: "We wanted to check in on the Gold Coast. Of course there's been lots of discussion and lots of pictures floating around vision of the scarping that's been happening. As you can see, it's a, it's around a three metre drop. [...] This must be the busiest time in your life." "Yeah, absolutely. But to me, this isn't as bad as it looks. For most people when they see this, they go start freaking out. But for me, I look at this and I go It's not so much about what was lost, it's about what wasn't lost. Look behind us. All of the buildings are intact, all the roads are there. The beach is doing its job, it's taking the brunt of the force of that cyclone." - Aaron Salyer, International Coastal Management ABC News with Nate Byrne TV Interview, 14 March 2025 | Aaron Salyer joined Nate Byrne on ABC News Breakfast to explain how Gold Coast beaches are designed to recover after extreme weather events. Nate Byrne, ABC News Breakfast:  " Okay, first of all, talk to me about what's happened here. Courtesy of Alfred. There must be just I can't even fathom the volume of sand that's missing." "Yes. Millions of cubic meters of sand have been eroded from the beach. But erosion is a natural process. Erosion happens at all kinds of times. But, in these kind of extreme events big wave energy hits the top of the dunes, takes out that sand and actually takes it offshore into the sort of offshore zone, which creates those offshore sandbars. What happens then is that naturally breaks the wave energy. And over time, those sandbars will actually start moving back in." "So this is a natural process. What's exciting for me as a coastal engineer is to see that, we had 12 metre waves out here just a few days ago and it's only eroded, slightly, not even all the way back to the worst case scenario here. The Gold Coast has been really prepping for this moment for decades." - Aaron Salyer, International Coastal Management ABC Gold Coast Mornings with Sarah Cumming TV Interview, 14 March 2025 |  Angus Jackson joined Sarah Cumming on ABC Gold Coast Mornings to explain the science behind sand dredging and beach nourishment . Sarah Cumming, ABC: " Tell us about how these sand dredging barges actually work. They don't actually take the sand from the ocean and dump it on the shore. They just move it back into the surf zone. Is that right? Can you just explain how that works for us?" "Yes, so when we were doing this back in the 1980s, we had no beaches at the southern end of the Gold Coast - just boulder walls. We needed to nourish those beaches very quickly. We were researching storm bars, which naturally move back onshore after a storm event, and we quickly recognised that if we created artificial storm bars with a dredge, nature would do the rest within six to 12 months - at about half the cost of traditional methods." "In 2017, the Gold Coast’s last major nearshore nourishment project moved around 3 million cubic metres of sand offshore. The dredge goes out, finds a good sand source, brings it in, and if it’s a really big dredge, they ‘rainbow’ it - pumping the sand into the air so it lands in the surf zone, where waves naturally bring it up the beach." "This method, developed by the Gold Coast City Council in 1985 when I was in charge, is now used globally. The benefit is that we don’t need pipelines on the beach - everything happens in the surf zone. And in 2017, we even designed the placement to improve the surfing conditions, so it’s a really nifty method." - Angus Jackson, International Coastal Management The Gold Coast Stress Test Cyclone Alfred provided a real-world stress test of the Gold Coast’s coastal resilience framework. The engineered dune systems , seawalls , and sand bypassing measures all performed as designed, preventing major infrastructure loss and setting the coastline up for a faster recovery. At International Coastal Management (ICM), we remain at the forefront of coastal engineering solutions, working with cities and communities worldwide to develop sustainable, nature-based resilience strategies.

We’re excited to announce that International Coastal Management (ICM) has received special accreditation to participate in the 2025 United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC) in Nice, France, from 9-13 June 2025. This high-level global conference, co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, will bring together world leaders, scientists, policymakers, and industry experts to drive urgent action for the sustainable use of our oceans with the theme, " Accelerating action and mobilising all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean ".  Dedicated to advancing Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG 14) (conserving and sustainably using the world’s oceans, seas, and marine resources), the plenary sessions, Ocean Action Panels, and high-level dialogues will focus on building partnerships, solutions, and commitments that drive real impact for ocean conservation and climate resilience.  ICM's Role at the UN Ocean Conference  As an accredited organisation , ICM will actively contribute to discussions, engage with key policymakers and stakeholders, and bring insights from our extensive portfolio of coastal engineering projects . With over 40 years of experience implementing nature-based solutions and innovative coastal resilience strategies, ICM is well-positioned to support global efforts in climate adaptation and ocean sustainability.  Aaron Salyer , a Director of ICM, will be representing our team at the conference, bringing firsthand expertise from his work worldwide.   The UN One Ocean Science Congress In the lead-up to the UN Ocean Conference, ICM will also be attending and presenting at the UN One Ocean Science Congress in Nice from 3-6 June. This congress is bringing together leading ocean scientists, experts, and policymakers to provide scientific insights on ocean health, conservation, and sustainable use. The discussions will directly inform the Nice Ocean Action Plan, shaping future global strategies for ocean resilience. ICM will deliver two presentations, highlighting practical, scalable approaches that bridge the gap between science, policy, and implementation: Engineering Resilience: The Noosa Oyster Ecosystem Restoration Project as a Model for Nature-Based Coastal Adaptation - Demonstrating how habitat restoration strengthens coastal resilience, enhances biodiversity, and provides long-term protection. A Framework for Coastal Resilience: Integrating Artificial Reefs, Nearshore Nourishment, Dune Management, and Artificial Headlands - Showcasing a comprehensive, multi-layered approach to sustainable coastal protection. What This Means for ICM Receiving special accreditation to United Nations Ocean Conference marks a significant milestone for ICM, reinforcing our role as a global leader in coastal and marine solutions. This opportunity allows us to:  Engage with global decision-makers  on critical coastal resilience and climate adaptation policies.  Showcase our work in engineering nature-based solutions and sustainable coastal infrastructure .  Strengthen collaborations  with international partners, scientific institutions, and industry leaders.  Help shape the Nice Ocean Action Plan , ensuring that innovative engineering and sustainable coastal management play a central role in ocean conservation.  ICM remains committed to engineering solutions that protect coastlines, restore ecosystems, and support communities facing the challenges of climate change.  Stay tuned as we share updates from UNOC 2025 and the UN One Ocean Science Congress. Follow us for exclusive insights, event highlights, and key takeaways from these landmark global events.  Want to connect with ICM ahead of UNOC? Reach out to discuss how we can collaborate with you.