What’s happening?
Oyster Point Park in Cleveland will soon host the second pilot project of the Living Shorelines initiative, with construction set to begin and finish this August 2025. This project will trial nature-based and engineered solutions to reduce erosion while protecting cultural heritage values and preserving the area’s natural beauty.
Why it matters
The Living Shorelines initiative is part of Council’s broader Coastal Hazard Adaptation Strategy (CHAS), delivered under the Queensland Government’s QCoast2100 program. By combining ecological restoration with engineered protection, it aims to stabilise foreshores, protect public assets, and safeguard habitats for critically endangered shorebird species.
Local Impact
Residents can expect some temporary restrictions at Oyster Point Park during works, but the park itself will remain open. Construction zones and compounds will be fenced, and alternative pedestrian access will be provided when machinery is moved. The design is also sensitive to local cultural heritage, with a no-dig construction method ensuring Aboriginal cultural sites remain undisturbed.
By the numbers
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Construction will commence and conclude in August 2025.
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Work hours will typically be 7am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.
Other key pointS;
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The project will trial temporary removable breakwaters such as rock bags and concrete blocks.
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Geofabric layers and imported fill will be used to stabilise erosion scarps.
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Coastal vegetation including saltmarsh and dune species will be planted to promote long-term stability.
Zoom In
At Oyster Point Park, key activities will include bank stabilisation, revegetation, and the installation of temporary rock bag and concrete block breakwaters. These will create calm waters for plants to establish before being removed, ensuring the views of Moreton Bay remain unchanged. Bollards and sandstone blocks will also be installed to protect new vegetation and restrict vehicle access, reducing impacts on shorebird habitats.
Zoom Out
The Oyster Point Park works are part of the city’s larger Living Shorelines initiative, an innovative program designed to address long-term coastal erosion through sustainable, low-maintenance solutions. This approach reduces reliance on traditional hard infrastructure and instead enhances natural ecosystems while protecting community assets.
What to look for next
Following the Oyster Point Park pilot, Council will continue to refine and apply these methods across other foreshore locations. Lessons learned from this project will help guide the roll-out of future Living Shorelines works, ensuring they balance ecological health, community use, and cultural heritage protection.
