Council Steps Up Protection of Emu Park’s Fragile Foreshore

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Published
3rd July 2025

Livingstone Shire Council is intensifying its response to recent vegetation vandalism along the Emu Park foreshore, reinforcing its commitment to safeguard the sensitive dune systems that shield homes, roads, and community facilities from erosion.

As trustee of the State‑owned coastal land, Council has both a legal duty and an environmental responsibility to protect these natural buffers—which are also vital habitats for native wildlife.

Mayor Adam Belot said Council is working hard to progress vital planning works to support the long-term management of Emu Park’s coastline but ultimately, the community also needs to play their part.

“Our coastline is one of Emu Park’s greatest assets. We are advancing critical projects such as the detailed design for the Emu Park Revetment Wall and investigating long‑term solutions for Muskers Beach in Zilzie,” Mayor Belot said.

“At the same time, we are preparing a new Foreshore Management Plan to guide storm‑water control, vegetation restoration, public access, and dune rehabilitation – so to see this kind of behaviour going on in these areas, is disappointing to say the least.”

Under local laws and the Coastal Protection and Management Act 1995, any planting, clearing, track construction, or maintenance on public coastal land—regardless of good intentions—requires prior written approval from Council.

Development & Environment Committee Co‑Chair added that while initiatives to protect the foreshore are a step in the right direction, the unauthorised clearing in these areas can undermine the health of our sand dunes.

“This stretch of coastline is more exposed to deeper water and larger swells than the sheltered areas within Keppel Bay, which makes these sand dunes especially important as our natural first line of defence,” Cr Eastwood said.

“Damaging or removing vegetation weakens that defence and Council will pursue full compliance action where required.”

“Every shrub illegally removed erodes our ever-changing coastline a little more. If you see suspicious behaviour, please speak up.”

How can residents help?

  • See it? Report it. Call 1300 790 919 or lodge an anonymous report or email enquiries@livingstone.qld.gov.au
  • Leave the dunes alone. Planting, trimming, track‑building, or maintenance on public land needs written Council approval.
  • Spread the word. Tell neighbours and visitors why intact vegetation is critical to dune stability, erosion control, and wildlife habitat.