- Major works completed on the seawall at TS Onslow Naval Cadets site at Golden Beach.
- The project included improved access for swimming and water sports through a 4-metre wide entry ramp.
- Project was jointly funded by the Albanese and Crisafulli Governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
A vital project strengthening one of Golden Beach's most loved foreshore areas is now complete, delivering greater protection from coastal hazards and more ways for locals and visitors to enjoy the water safely.
Sunshine Coast Council received $6.3 million in joint funding by the Albanese and Crisafulli Governments through the Disaster Funding Recovery Arrangements (DRFA) to reconstruct the seawall from Nelson Street to the TS Onslow Naval Cadets site.
This area was significantly impacted by the extraordinary weather events of 2021–2022 and the widening Bribie Island breakthrough.
The upgraded coastal protection works and improved access features are part of Council's ongoing, strategic approach to safeguarding Golden Beach in the face of a changing environment.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said the Australian Government was committed to protecting Golden Beach from coastal erosion.
"Since 2023, our government committed our support through a range of funding mechanisms, including the DRFA, to support the construction of the entire 1.5km sea wall around Golden Beach, and it's great to see the amount of progress being made," Minister McBain said.
"This project is a massive undertaking and will not only allow locals, volunteers and visitors to use the area again after the devastating events in late 2021 and early 2022, but also help prevent damage from future severe weather events.
"This large-scale fix is a great example of all levels of government collaborating to deliver what's needed for the Sunshine Coast."
Acting Minister for Sport and Racing and Acting Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Andrew Powell said the project would help to maximise use of the foreshore.
"The Crisafulli Government is proud to help deliver this project for the community, repairing and protecting the coastline while creating more opportunities for people to get outdoors and be active," Minister Powell said.
"Importantly, this investment will help to build resilience against coastal changes and preserve the area for future generations."
Senator Corinne Mulholland said the Albanese Government's contribution to this project was an investment in disaster response and readiness.
"When extreme weather strikes our coastline, it doesn't just damage infrastructure, it can threaten the parks and pathways and foreshore spaces at the heart of communities like the Sunshine Coast," Senator Mulholland said.
"Federal investment in disaster readiness is essential to protecting people's safety, the local economy and the lifestyle that makes the Sunny Coast so iconic.
"This investment in the Golden Beach seawall is testament to our commitment to protecting our incredible natural environment for future generations and also investing in infrastructure that improves the community's access to and enjoyment of the beach."
Member for Caloundra Kendall Hatcher said it was fantastic to see the area restored.
"I'm thrilled to see this project completed to protect our coastline and support the lifestyle that makes Caloundra such a great place to live," Ms Hatcher said.
"By improving access for swimmers, boaties and visitors of all ages, we're making it easier to get out on the water and enjoy this beautiful part of the Coast."
Sunshine Coast Council Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the completion of the project marked an important milestone in Council's long-term vision to protect coastal communities.
"Golden Beach is a place our community treasures – families, paddlers, walkers, anglers and visitors all love this foreshore," Mayor Natoli said.
"We're acting now to protect it so people can continue enjoying this beautiful shoreline for generations.
"This seawall is just one piece of a wider program of coastal adaptation work underway at Golden Beach.
"From Diamond Head to Jellicoe Street, Council is taking deliberate, science‑based steps to strengthen our coastline and manage the impacts of erosion, storm tides and sea level rise."
Division 2 Councillor Terry Landsberg said the project reflected the community's deep connection to Golden Beach and Council's responsibility to protect local parks, paths and infrastructure.
"Here on the Sunshine Coast, our coastline isn't just landscape – it's lifestyle," Cr Landsberg said.
"This project will protect the much‑loved parkland, coastal pathway and Esplanade, while giving the community easier and safer access to the water.
"Two new staircases and two four‑metre‑wide ramps mean more spots for families to swim, launch craft or simply enjoy the passage."
Works included a 208‑metre-long rock and concrete stepped seawall, two staircases, an integrated access ramp, upgraded landscaping and improvements to the Navy Cadets boat ramp and adjoining parklands.
