Barry Sammels, Chair of the Australian Coastal Councils Association, said the Awards were established to acknowledge the achievement of individuals and organisations that have made a significant contribution to the Australian coastal environment, settlements and sustainability.
“The Awards are intended to raise community awareness of the importance of the coastal zone and to encourage coastal planning and management practitioners to strive for excellence,” he said.
Barry Sammels said the standard of nominations for the 2019 Australian Coastal Awards was very high. Winners of the awards were:
- The 2019 Australian Coastal Award for Annual Achievement was awarded to the City of Bunbury (WA) in association with the technical resources of Cardno WA Pty Ltd;
- The 2019 Australian Coastal Award for Climate Adaptation was awarded to the Local Government Association of Queensland and the Queensland Department of Environment and Science;
- The 2019 Australian Coastal Award for Community Engagement was awarded to the Sunshine Coast Council (QLD);
- The 2019 Australian Coastal Award for Innovation was awarded to the City of Greater Geelong (VIC); and
- The 2019 Australian Coastal Award for Planning and Management was jointly awarded to the Shire of Broome (WA) in association with Baird Australia and Nyambu Buru Yawuru, and the Port Macquarie-Hastings Council (NSW).
“Australia has one of the longest coastlines in the world – more than 36,000kms – but it faces many challenges,” he said. “These include the impact of more frequent extreme weather events, widespread coastal erosion, the risks associated with a changing climate and loss of coastal environment due to rapid urbanisation.
“Fortunately, as a nation we have a large number of dedicated individuals and organisations who are committed to safeguarding the coast for future generations. The Australian Coastal Awards are intended to acknowledge their work and to inspire others.”