MILLIONS of tonnes of sand have been lost from Stockton beach since April’s super storm.
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Parts of the 22-kilometre beachfront have had up to 15metres of frontal dune stripped off.
While parts of the complex dunal system have shown signs of regeneration, the overall beach profile has changed dramatically in the past five years.
National Parks and Wildlife Service acting area manager Tony DeMamiel said the pattern of erosion was likely to continue for the foreseeable future.
‘‘We are losing more sand with every east coast low that comes through,’’ he said. ‘‘The evidence is pointing to more erosion in coming months.’’
The weakened frontal dune system has allowed water to penetrate well into the hind system making it unsafe for recreational vehicles. Vehicle access from Lavis Lane and Gan Gan Road is presently closed due to flooding, however, the National Parks and Wildlife Service is hoping to have it reopened as soon as possible.
‘‘There is inundation where you rarely see it,’’ Mr DeMamiel said.
‘‘It’s very unstable and not suitable for driving. ’’
In addition to the damage done to the dune system, there is also concern that ongoing erosion may disturb Aboriginal cultural sites which have been buried for hundreds of years.
The Worimi Conservation Lands Board of Management is committed to eventually reintroducing camping, however, it needs to be done in conjunction with a plan of management for the area, Mr DeMamiel said.