Surfers Paradise Emergency Protection Works

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