Update from the Local Recovery Coordinator

The work of NSW Government agencies and Central Coast Council is continuing in response to coastal erosion at Wamberal.

Local Recovery Coordinator Lee Shearer said a total of 44 properties had been evacuated following the significant coastal erosion event between 16 and 18 July.

“The evacuation order on all affected properties has now been lifted, excluding one home which is still considered at-risk,” Ms Shearer said.

“1,800 tonnes of rock and 1,720 tonnes of rock bags have been placed on Wamberal Beach since 22 July, and work is expected to continue well into next week.”

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch thanked Ms Shearer for providing an independent link between the NSW Government, Central Coast Council and the affected Wamberal community.

“We are now pivoting from the recovery phase to the long-term planning phase with Dr Phil Watson appointed as Chair of the Wamberal Taskforce,” Mr Crouch said.

“The Taskforce’s first meeting was held on Tuesday, 11 August and we’re off to a flying start.

“To complement the Taskforce’s work, the NSW Government is requesting that Council employ a dedicated Project Manager to provide day-to-day oversight and ensure planning for the long-term solution remains on track.

“Building a Sea Wall is absolutely essential to protect the hundreds of millions of dollars of public and private assets along Ocean View Drive.”

Following the cessation of Ms Shearer’s role as the Local Recovery Coordinator, Central Coast Council has established a Local Recovery Coordination Committee to oversee the remaining emergency works and address any residual issues.