Beach project CoastSnapWA recognised at WA Coastal Awards of Excellence

Community beach project CoastSnapWA received a special commendation for its coastal management program at the WA Coastal Awards of Excellence for 2022.

The awards ceremony held last month in Mandurah recognised the outstanding achievements of West Australians in coastal planning, managing and protection.

The CoastSnapWA program was nominated in the science and research category for its coastal initiative that runs from nine sites between Rockingham and Busselton, including Mersey Point Jetty, Silver Sands, Herron Point and Binningup Beach.

People taking part in the program help monitor the beaches by taking photos of the beach from fixed smartphone camera stands.

After uploading their CoastSnap photo they can take part in a short survey about what is valued on the coast and how this might change over time.

Peron Naturaliste Partnership chairperson and City of Rockingham councillor Mark Jones said the CoastSnapWA program was a fantastic tool to gather physical data and information on social values.

Data on changes in beach conditions and community values can help local governments protect and manage coastal areas.

“The project is also raising awareness of coastal processes, hazards and risks along our coast, which is becoming increasingly important due to climate change,” Cr Jones said.

Cr Jones thanked the people who had contributed to the program’s success.

“Without your involvement, the program would not be the success it is. We would also like to ask that the community continue to assist us in monitoring our coast,” he said.