Overview
Summary
The southern end of Newell Beach and the northern end of Oak Beach coastline were significantly impacted during the Tropical Cyclone Jasper disaster event. In 2025, funding was secured to implement nature-based solutions aimed at rehabilitating and restoring these coastal areas.
Scope of Works
Southern Newell Beach:
- Sand scraping and nourishment
- Revegetation
Northern Oak Beach:
- Sand scraping
- Revegetation
Cost of Project
The package is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments to support Queensland communities in their recovery from the Tropical Cyclone Jasper, Associated Rainfall and Flooding, 13 – 28 December 2023 event.
Updates
April 2026
Consultants will be on site at Newell and Oak Beach for two weeks commencing 27 April, 2026, conducting coastal surveys. In the first week, consultants will be using drones to survey the eroded areas. In the following week, consultants will be doing on ground inspections to ascertain what, if any permits are required to complete the work.
October 2026
Newell Beach restoration works
Following the Tropical Cyclone Jasper disaster event, Council secured funding in 2025 for coastal restoration works at the southern end of Newell Beach. The works will use sand relocation and native coastal planting to help rebuild and stabilise the beach and dune system.
Sand movement is expected to begin in early November 2026. Sand will be moved from the southern end of the beach to the nourishment area shown in the project plans. Once this work is complete, Council will plant native coastal species in the dune area. The planting is designed to help trap and stabilise sand while complementing existing vegetation and maintaining coastal views.
Council has shared the proposed revegetation plan with nearby residents.
Beach scraping at Newell Beach
The infographic below explains how beach scraping and coastal vegetation work together to help restore the beach and strengthen the natural dune system. It also outlines how beach users can help protect planted areas, including by using designated access paths, keeping vehicles off dunes and planted areas, and not dumping garden waste on the beach.
Oak Beach
The project is in the final stages of obtaining the necessary State Government approvals. A Cultural Heritage Assessment will be undertaken in the coming months, with on-ground works to commence once approvals and assessment requirements have been completed.
Enquiries
If you have any questions, or would like to register to receive updates, please email liza.dowling@douglas.qld.gov.au or call or text Liza or 0419 840 215.
