Beach progress happening

In his report at the group’s annual general meeting earlier this month, chairperson Nick Abbott said it had been a productive year of data collection and collation. 

The group carries out monitoring through erosion measuring posts on Port Fairy’s east and south beaches.

“One of our points of particular monitoring interest is whether the rock wall is going to do the job it was designed for,” Mr Abbott said.

“That is, to prevent erosion of the old tip site.

“We are also watching to see whether it might be having any unexpected effects in other parts of the beach.

“So far it’s working, but two years is not nearly long enough to know.”

Mr Abbott said the group continues to work closely with other organisations in the town. 

These include the two primary schools and the Moyne Shire Council.

The group also provides data for the council.

Port Fairy Coastal Group was formed in 2011 to tackle the issue of erosion and now has a membership over 30.

Moyne Shire councillor Jill Parker was lavish in her praise of the coastal group.

“They are fantastic, they are such a great group,” Cr Parker said.

“They are not only very passionate people but they are also very knowledgeable.

“They love Port Fairy and they have a really good grasp on what is happening along the coast and what needs to be done to fix it.

“When you put together some impressive skill sets and a love of the town it is a very impressive package.”

Cr Parker combines her role as a councillor with her position as chairperson of the Western Coastal Board.

She said having a community group help council tackle environmental issues is a great asset.

 “The detail and the quality of the data the Port Fairy Coastal Group provides to council is amazing,” Cr Parker said.

“They want to do their bit to protect the coast line and they have a real desire to team with council so we can all take on this fight together.

“It is a great example of a pro-active community group.”