The Year 11 Geography classes have been investigating the current geographic issue of coastal erosion at Ocean Beach. We have been trying to understand different perspectives on this issue, looking for a solution moving forward.

We were lucky enough that Mr Tom Simon-Smith, a coastal geomorphologist working for the DCC, was able to come and speak to the students. He has extensively studied the fore-dune at St Kilda and was involved in a study to improve sand capture to build up the width of the dune. Now working for the DCC, he was able to explain a political viewpoint as well.

Mr Conrad Stedman, a St Clair resident and Dunedin City Councillor, also offered to come and give his perspective. Mr Stedman is trying to balance the needs of his community with his role on the Council and had some interesting ideas about what he thought would help.

Soft and hard solutions, groynes and geotextile tubes…or do we need to allow nature to take back what was theirs originally through a managed retreat? Year 11 students have listened to the perspectives, analysed the strengths and weaknesses and will be making their recommendation to conclude their internal assessment.

Thank you very much to Mr Simon-Smith and Mr Stedman for taking the time to enrich the learning of our students.