The first of hundreds of massive boulders will be moved into place at Kirra Point groyne today.
Mayor Tom Tate said the work, to reinstate 30 metres of Kirra groyne that was removed in 1996, marks a significant milestone for one of the Gold Coast’s most iconic surf beaches.
“ The local surfing community asked City of Gold Coast to bring back the legendary Kirra groyne. We responded and $800,000 from the 2013/14 budget has been allocated to make this project happen, ” Mayor Tate said.
“ The community wanted the groyne back, and by restoring it our aim is to support surfing in this area, for the Gold Coast locals and surfers worldwide.
“ As well as being a unique and beautiful part of our landscape, our beaches are a huge economic driver for our city. The surfing industry alone is worth over $3 billion to our local economy ,” he said.
Kirra was known as the one of the best surfing breaks in the world. Back in 1996, the groyne was shortened by 30 metres. Since this time, surf quality has been impacted by many factors including the establishment of the sand bypass.
The groyne reinstatement will be constructed from locally sourced basalt rock endemic to the area.
Approximately 320 x 15 tonne rock (4800 tonnes) and 1200 1-5 tonne rock (3600 tonnes) will be used to construct the 30 metre groyne.
City of Gold Coast’s project team have partnered to deliver the works with the Griffith Centre for Coastal Management.
Work will be undertaken during standard work hours Monday to Friday and on Saturday between 7am – noon to reinstate the groyne to the surfing community as quickly as possible.
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Press Release, July 29, 2013