Port Fairy's coastal conflicts

The Tasmanian city council has visited Port Fairy for an information-sharing session on coastal development in areas susceptible to erosion and sea level rises.

Moyne Shire chief executive officer David Madden said it was important for Port Fairy to be in a position to take action on coastal hazards associated with more regularly occurring severe weather events.

“We are very keen to hear how the City of Clarence is engaging with the community and planning for the risks and impacts of extreme weather, such as beach erosion and inundation,” he said.

“Port Fairy, like Clarence, is very susceptible to extreme weather, and with increasing development pressures along our coast there will be unprecedented demand on planning authorities and asset managers.

“We hope to hear directly about their experiences, including both successes and pitfalls to avoid.”

The council is working with government agencies to prepare for hazards resulting from sea level rise, storm surges and flooding.

Port Fairy is one of four regional coastal communities in Victoria where a local coastal assessment to assess and respond to coastal hazards is planned.

The first stage involves the collection of existing data and information that is held by local and state government authorities and the public.

Members of the community will shortly be invited to provide information and photos that give an insight into

the changing landforms.