Work to restore Woodgate Beach is moving ahead with funding and approvals locked in.
The State Government has approved the use of sand from Theodolite Creek, right next door, to rebuild Woodgate Beach from the boat ramp south to Fifth Avenue.
Tropical Cyclone Alfred recovery funding, totalling $1,990,908, has also been extended to ensure works can be carried out outside turtle nesting and shorebird season.
Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett said it was a common-sense solution and one that should have been approved years ago.
“A Development Permit for Theodolite Creek and funding extension means we can finally get on with the job of fixing up one of our premier coastal destinations,” he said.
“People here want to keep their beach access, keep the dunes stable and keep the foreshore healthy.
“Using sand from the creek does all of that, and it’s the sensible way to get it done.
“Our beaches are not only central to our local tourism industry, they’re vital ecosystems, providing habitat for turtles and a natural defence against storms and high tides.
“It’s important we get this right.”
Bundaberg Mayor Helen Blackburn said the approvals and funding extension were a significant win for Woodgate and the wider Bundaberg Region.
“I would like to acknowledge the tremendous work undertaken by Council’s engineering and coastal management teams to reach this point, as well as the State Government’s willingness to work collaboratively toward a practical outcome,” she said.
“The extension through to June 2028 provides the certainty and flexibility needed to deliver these important rehabilitation works outside turtle nesting and shorebird seasons, ensuring the best possible environmental and community outcomes.
“This is a common sense decision that allows us to make the most of the available funding while protecting and strengthening one of our region’s most valued coastal environments.”
Council is now working through the best method and sequencing for placing the sand.
The $1,990,908 comes from the 2025 Tropical Cyclone Alfred Environmental Recovery Package: Coastline Rehabilitation Program, jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments under the $74 million Environmental Recovery Package.
It enables local governments to undertake sand-pushing, revegetation, dune stabilisation and nature-based solutions to rebuild and protect Queensland’s coastline.
