Cooloola Coastal Foreshore Reserves Management Plan 2019
The Cooloola Coastal Foreshore Reserves Management Plan (the Plan) has been designed to direct the management of specific coastal reserves within the Gympie region. It provides the management intent and vision for these areas, consistent with Council policy and the requirements of State and Federal legislation.
Cooloola Coastal Foreshore Reserves Management Plan 2019(PDF, 12MB)
What is a Foreshore?
The foreshore is the unique stretch of land where the land meets the sea. It includes:
• The area between the high and low tide marks
• Beaches, dunes, sand flats and mud flats
• Tidal wetlands such as saltmarsh and mangroves
• Coastal vegetation and open spaces that sit just above the highest tides.
These areas are constantly shaped by tides, weather and natural coastal processes. They also support important ecosystems, providing habitat for wildlife, protecting the coast from erosion, filter water, and offer recreational spaces for our community.
In the Gympie region, the foreshores of Tin Can Bay, Cooloola Cove and Rainbow Beach are particularly significant because they connect directly with the internationally recognised Great Sandy Strait Ramsar Wetland, home to threatened species, migratory birds and sensitive coastal ecosystems.
Why Do We Need a Foreshore Management Plan?
Our foreshores are some of the region’s most loved and most environmentally sensitive places. A Foreshore Management Plan helps Council, and the community, care for these areas in a coordinated, sustainable and legally compliant way.
You can view the current Cooloola Coastal Foreshore Management Plan here.
This Plan:
• Ensures we meet state and federal legislative requirements
• Protects our natural environment
• Manages recreation and public access
• Addresses erosion, drainage and climate impacts
• Supports cultural values and protects heritage
• Guides future improvements and maintenance
Council is currently reviewing this Foreshore Reserves Management Plan. This review will include engaging with the local community on what they value about the foreshore and what they think should be protected or improved.