Discovering an article from the 1989 edition of Engineers Australia detailing Angus Jackson's innovative approach to combating beach erosion on the Gold Coast was like uncovering a time capsule filled with visionary predictions for coastal management.
It's fascinating to reflect on the relevance of Angus Jackson's work today, as we witness the tangible outcomes of his strategies. His predictions, once hopes for a future at risk, have materialised into significant successes.
The iconic nourishment techniques, dune management, multi-purpose artificial reefs, sand bypassing and comprehensive coastal preservation efforts he envisioned have not only safeguarded the Gold Coast's beaches but also served as a model for global coastal resilience.
As we look back, it's clear that Jackson's foresight and dedication have left an indelible mark on the field of coastal engineering in Australia and globally, offering lessons on the power of innovation and the critical importance of harmonizing human activity with nature's dynamics.
This article serves as a testament to the enduring impact of visionary thinking in addressing environmental challenges, proving that proactive and innovative solutions can create a sustainable future for communities worldwide.
How it Started
In the late 70's and early 80's, the Gold Coast's sparkling beaches faced a dire threat from erosion, endangering both its environmental treasure and booming tourism sector.
Angus Jackson, a coastal engineer with foresight and innovation, embarked on a journey that would not only redefine coastal management on the Gold Coast but also set a global benchmark for shoreline preservation. His strategic interventions, well-documented over the decades, reveal a legacy of success, innovation, and environmental stewardship that continues to inspire.
Pioneering Nearshore Nourishment
Facing the erosion crisis, Jackson, then supervising engineer for special projects at the Gold Coast City Council, pioneered a nearshore nourishment (sand placement) program in 1985. His approach was revolutionary: "to work with nature."
This initiative aimed to replenish the beaches naturally, complementing an existing beach nourishment program that began in 1974 after a critical study by Holland’s Delft Hydraulics Laboratory. Jackson began his works with the Godl Coast City in 1976 and would lead to the confidence in this approach was palpable. He famously stated, “Either Christmas '89 is a good beach, or I'm looking for a new job,” underscoring his commitment and belief in the project's success.
Nearshore Nourishment Success
The foresight and effectiveness of Jackson's strategies were not merely speculative. Over the years, the success of these initiatives has been extensively documented, showcasing not just the revitalization of the Gold Coast's beaches but also marking significant progress in coastal management practices globally.
Jackson's work extended beyond sand replenishment; he was instrumental in developing vegetated dunes, sand management, and monitoring procedures that stand as a testament to sustainable coastal resilience.
Coastal Innovations that Resonated Globally
Angus' influence expanded internationally through his company International Coastal Management, where he championed the multi-purpose artificial reef approach at Narrowneck utilising geotextile sand containers. This innovative solution for coastal stabilization, over two decades later, is celebrated for its multifaceted success in environmental, recreational, and protective dimensions. "The creation of the large nearshore shoals has modified the wave climate and given immediate protection to the foreshore," Jackson observed, highlighting the project's immediate benefits.
A recent study on the sediment transport around the Narrowneck Reef highlights that it is having a positive effect on stabilising the beach around the reef, improving marine habitat and providing surf amenity in the reef vicinity.
Research and Education in Coastal Resilience
Jackson's work through council and International Coastal Management laid the groundwork for ongoing research and education in coastal resilience. He played a pivotal role in establishing the Griffith University Centre for Coastal Management department (now called Coastal Marine and Research Centre), aiming to preserve the accumulated knowledge and continue the advancement of coastal adaptation techniques and lessons.
This initiative has made the Gold Coast a hub for cutting-edge research and a beacon for communities worldwide striving to enhance their coastal adaptability.
A Future Built on Foundations of the Past
Today, the Gold Coast shines as a prime example of how vision, innovation, and commitment can transform environmental challenges into success stories. Angus Jackson's legacy is not just in the sands of the Gold Coast but in the global community of coastal management, where his strategies and teachings continue to inspire action and innovation.
In a world facing the urgent challenges of climate change and rising sea levels, the work initiated by Jackson and carried forward by entities like International Coastal Management and Griffith University have proven that coastal management strategies can have a multitude of benefits while providing ongoing resilience.
It underscores the importance of embracing innovative solutions and fostering knowledge-sharing communities to protect our planet's precious coastal environments for future generations. The Gold Coast, once damaged by eroding coastlines, now exemplifies the power of sustainable intervention and working with nature.
The Future of Coastal Resilience
With our recent win in the RE:BEACH design competition in Oceanside, California up against world leading design consultants and teams, International Coastal Management have been awarded the chance to design and implement a coastal resilience approach based on the success of the Gold Coast.
The design approach includes a multi purpose artificial reef, nearshore nourishment, sand/dune management plan and sand bypassing. This could be the new blueprint for coastal adaption methods in southern California.
The full Engineers Australia 1989 Article
You can read the Engineers Australia article below.
Looking for Coastal Resilience and Adaptation Specialists?
With decades at the leading edge of coastal resilience design and management approaches, International Coastal Management (ICM), have a dedicated and passionate team working in the coastal resilience space.
From coastal management strategies to multi purpose artificial reefs, vegetated dune systems or sand nourishment programs, our team can assist with all levels from concept designs to budgeting, implementation and monitoring.