Halifax Park / Fly Point Sand Accumulation Study
The Halifax Park / Fly Point Sand Accumulation Study – full report 
4.1 Mb identifies options for managing ongoing sand accumulation at Halifax Point and Fly Point, in Port Stephens-Great Lakes Marine Park.
Fly and Halifax Points are popular coastal dive locations. Both sites are located within a marine park sanctuary zone and have been long recognised for spectacular sponge gardens and a diversity of marine life. Local dive tourism operators estimate the sites are worth approximately $14 million annually to the local economy.
Over several years, sand has been accumulating adjacent to Halifax Point and Fly Point, impacting on the sponge gardens and related marine life. Consultants BMT WBM Pty Ltd was engaged in mid 2011 to investigate underlying processes and causes of the sand movement.
The consultants report has identified actions which, if implemented, may help safeguard these sites from further damage. These include:
- Detailed design and environmental assessment for sand removal of approximately 57,000m3 from the western end of Shoal Bay beach and from Little Bay beach
- Detailed design and environmental impact assessment for dredging of approximately 80,000m3 at Fly Point and the lobe adjacent to Nelson Head
- Ongoing monitoring for a period of at least two years
The consultants report was presented to a group of stakeholders on 21 October 2011 by one of the authors of the report, Dr Phillip Haines.
The report was publicly released on 4th November to enable submissions on its findings and recommendations. Submissions close on Friday 2 December 2011 and can be made by:
Email: psglmp@mpa.nsw.gov.au
or
Mail: c/- Manager, Port Stephens - Great Lakes Marine Park, Locked Bag 800, NELSON BAY NSW 2315.
The Government will await community feedback on the report before making any decisions.
- 4/11/11 - Public urged to have a say on Halifax/Fly Point sand build up 280 Kb
- Halifax Park / Fly Point Sand Accumulation Study – full report 4.1 Mb
- Presentation Summary 660 Kb
