 Noosa Bypass
Noosa Beach Sand Recycling
Sand recycling plant utilising the Submarine Sandshifter is installed on
Noosa Beach. The equipment recycles littoral drift sand to provide regular
beach nourishment. The equipment traps sand at the down drift end of the
beach and pumps it back to the eroded areas of the beach.
The Sandshifter sources clean littoral drift sand that would otherwise
leave the area. The system does not remove sand from the nearby estuary,
disturb marine life habitats or have any restrictions on its operating
times. Beach nourishment can be undertaken regularly to ensure the beach
remains well nourished and in a state that can absorb storm damage.
The Sandshifter system was installed and commenced pumping sand in
January 2004. The unit recycles 30-40,000 cu.m of sand per year subject to
requirements.
Mechanical Equipment
The Noosa equipment comprises a Sandshifter unit, water pump, dredge
pump, 1300m of discharge pipeline, slurry receiving sump and associated pipe
work.
Future Expansion
A permanent electric powered system is currently being engineered and is
scheduled for commissioning in 2009.
The new pump station will utilise electric
power and enable automated operations at night to minimise disturbance to
beach users.
|
