Draft plan feedback open on Redhead dune stabilisation works

newy.com.au – Lake Macquarie City Council has released a draft Redhead Dune Management Plan proposing to reshape dunes near Redhead Surf Life Saving Club and install fencing and native plantings, with public feedback open until Wednesday 19 February 2026.

The plan targets sand movement at one of the city’s busiest beaches, after onshore winds and sparse dune vegetation in recent months pushed tonnes of sand into the southern end of the car park and partly buried the main shower station near the clubhouse.

Council has partnered with researchers from the University of NSW Water Research Laboratory to develop the draft, with Manager Environmental Systems Brendan Callander saying the work aims to prevent further displacement of sand and improve dune stability.

“We’ve done work previously to relocate sand and stabilise the dune, but this is a more significant undertaking,” Callander said. “We’re proposing to use earthmoving equipment to reshape and stabilise the dune, making it more resilient to the harsh coastal conditions.”

Under the draft plan, the top of the highest dune would be lowered by about 3 m, with council saying the change is intended to enhance stability. Planting would be staged across the hind dune closest to the car park, along the dune crest and down the seaward slope to help reduce sand movement.

Council listed acacia, lomandra, banksia, spinifex, pigface and tuckeroo among species proposed for planting to stabilise the area and increase biodiversity.

Protective fencing is planned along the front and back of the dune, extending from the clubhouse to First Creek, alongside a newly aligned central access path to help manage movement through the area. The wire and mesh screen above the timber wall near the shower is also flagged for replacement, with Callander saying it was intended to stop sand blowing into the shower area during strong winds.

Crews would also reshape sand around the beach access point at the southern end of the car park leading to First Creek to improve accessibility.

Callander said, subject to public feedback and subsequent detailed design, work could begin as soon as June.