Putney and Fisherman’s Beaches form the gateway to Great Keppel Island, they are the first thing visitors see when they arrive and they’re critical to the island’s identity.

However, years of progressive erosion, combined with the impacts of recent tropical Cyclone Alfred, have left this area extremely vulnerable.

Planning for Protection

Livingstone Shire Council has received $500,000 in Queensland Government funding to undertake the planning, business case, and preliminary design for options to protect Putney and Fisherman’s Beaches.

The funding from the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation builds on years of work to address the ongoing coastal erosion threatening the Island, and is a vital first step in securing the future of Great Keppel Island’s foreshore.

Project Scope

The project will investigate options extending along Putney Beach, around the Spit, and into Fisherman’s Beach, with the purpose of:

• Reducing wave energy
• Preventing further shoreline retreat
• Protecting public and tourism assets, including the proposed Arrivals Plaza.

Once Council understands the full cost to secure the island, advocacy will begin for construction funding.

Coordinated Approach

In parallel with the business case and planning, Council has also secured $170,170 through the QCoast2100 program, plus a $16,830 Council contribution, to prepare a Shoreline Erosion Management Plan (SEMP) for both beaches.

The SEMP will complement the project by identifying long-term adaptation pathways and priority works for both beaches in line with Queensland Government coastal hazard guidelines.

Together, these initiatives will ensure a coordinated approach to coastal protection and climate resilience.