May’s destructive storms wreaked havoc across the region and District Council of Yankalilla has counted the toll on jetties and other coastal infrastructure along the Fleurieu Coast.

Very high tides, strong winds and heavy surf impacted jetties, causeways and beach stairs at  Normanville, Carrickalinga, Second Valley, Rapid Bay, Myponga Beach and Cape Jervis. 

In conjunction with Department of Infrastructure and Transport (DIT) the council has been assess the damage, make safe through interim measures, begin the clean-up and plan for the repairs needed to safely restore access.

Normanville jetty will stay closed while qualified engineers make a detailed inspection and report to council exactly what repairs are required.

There was also damage to the walkway to the jetty and the boat ramp and the beach stairs at Normanville are also closed, awaiting a full engineering assessment.

Normanville pontoon’s ladder was damaged, but its  structural integrity is fine. It will be stored over winter while the council explores options for sponsorship or support to bring it back for future summers. 

DIT will repair the state heritage-listed causeway at Second Valley, which will include specialised stonework.

Temporary repairs have already been completed to the Second Valley jetty, but a detailed engineering inspection is required to check for any further issues.

Severe damage has closed the beach stairs at Myponga Beach and the council is reviewing whether they can be repaired or if they will need to be replaced. 

Diving, swimming and boating are now prohibited around the entire structure of the old Rapid Bay jetty after inspection revealed major safety risks.

The exclusion zone has been expanded to cover beneath the jetty and 20 metres on either side and at both ends.

DIT will begin maintenance works on the new Rapid Bay Jetty on Tuesday 1 July. 

The work aims to improve the jetty’s structural integrity and lifespan and will continue until mid-September, with some weekday closures required for safety. For more information visit the DIT website. 

Severe flooding damaged the Rapid Bay campground with some fencing needing repairs as well as damage to the access road. 

For more information about coastal damage and remediation across the District Council of Yankalilla, visit the council website.