Yr 10 Geography excursion to Collaroy Beach

Year 10 Geography students spent the day at Collaroy Beach on Friday, 1st November to examine what they have been learning in class.

On Friday, 1st November Year 10 Geography students visited Collaroy Beach for an excursion that offered a firsthand look at the powerful forces shaping our coastlines. The trip was a unique opportunity to witness the effects of coastal erosion and see the real impact it has on structures, ecosystems, and communities.

We explored the foreshore area, observing the way the beach interacts with both natural and built environments. Our guides highlighted the vulnerability of structures built close to the water, where sand is frequently undercut and washed away, leaving buildings at risk. We also saw the ways storms and increased wave activity; referred to as storm swell, accelerate this erosion. This was evident in areas where recent storm events had removed large sections of sand and weakened the base of some structures.

One of the key discussions on-site was about protective measures, like sea walls, that have been implemented to safeguard properties built close to the sea. While these structures can be beneficial, they also disrupt the natural process of dune formation and replenishment, which leads to unintended consequences. For instance, we learned that building too close to the shore and on dunes can create long-term issues as the natural movement of sand and water is altered, sometimes worsening erosion in nearby areas.

The excursion also gave us a historical perspective. We discussed the significant damage that occurred at Manly in 1967, when powerful storms led to extensive destruction along the coast. Seeing this evidence first hand helped us understand the ongoing need for balanced approaches that protect both our natural coastlines and the development around them.

This experience was eye-opening, showing us the delicate balance between protecting human interests and preserving natural landscapes. It emphasised the importance of sustainable coastal management practices to protect areas like Collaroy Beach for future generations.

Majerin P., Year 10 Geography student