Mandurah is deeply connected to its beaches. These natural wonders are not just a source of beauty but also offer plentiful recreational opportunities and economic benefits. As part of the city's identity, preserving these coastal areas is paramount for both present and future generations.

Challenges from Coastal Hazards

Despite their beauty, Mandurah's beaches face significant threats from coastal hazards such as rising sea levels, beach erosion, and severe storms. These challenges can drastically alter the coastline, affecting both the natural environment and man-made structures like parks, footpaths, and buildings. To address these issues, the City of Mandurah is developing Coastal Hazard Risk Management and Adaptation Plans (CHRMAPs).

Understanding the CHRMAP Initiative

The Southern Beaches CHRMAP is a comprehensive 100-year plan aimed at identifying and managing the impacts of coastal hazards. This initiative follows the successful completion of a similar plan for the Northern Beaches. The focus now shifts to the southern coastline, covering areas from Roberts Point in Halls Head to Clifton.

The CHRMAP initiative involves technical studies by coastal engineers and active input from the community. This dual approach ensures a thorough understanding of potential erosion and flooding risks, enabling the identification of effective management options.

Community Involvement: A Key to Success

The success of the CHRMAP relies heavily on the input and engagement of Mandurah's local community. Recognizing that residents know their beaches best, the city invited community members to participate in shaping the future of the southern beaches. Over the next year, there will be several opportunities for residents to share their insights and feedback.

Engagement Opportunities

Community involvement was facilitated through various engagement activities. Stage 1 of the CHRMAP Community Engagement ran until 22 September. Residents could contribute in the following ways:

• A Short Survey: This 10-minute survey allowed residents to express what they value most about the southern beaches, providing crucial data for the CHRMAP.
• Use the Online Mapping Tool: Through this tool, participants could highlight their favorite coastal spots and activities, explaining their significance.
• Join the Coastal Community Reference Group (CCRG): This group offers an in-depth opportunity to influence coastal management decisions. Limited to 50 members, the CCRG will engage in workshops to provide detailed feedback.

The Role of the Coastal Community Reference Group

The CCRG is a pivotal element of the CHRMAP process. Selected members will participate in three workshops, scheduled for October 2024 and February 2025, to delve into coastal management strategies. This group serves as a bridge between the community and decision-makers, ensuring that local perspectives are considered in planning efforts.

Conclusion

Mandurah's Southern Beaches CHRMAP is a proactive effort to safeguard the city's cherished coastline against the growing threats of coastal hazards. By integrating technical expertise with community insights, the initiative aims to create a sustainable and resilient coastal future. Residents are encouraged to participate actively in shaping this future, reinforcing the community's role in preserving Mandurah's coastal heritage. For those interested, further details and participation opportunities are available on the Mandurah Matters website.