Coastal Management Programs – City of Newcastle Update

This seminar provided an important update on the development of the City of Newcastle’s Coastal Management Programs (CMPs), specifically focusing on the Southern Beaches and Stockton areas. Hosted by Pam Dean Jones, the session offered insights into the transition from the original Stockton CMP to an extended version, and the progress of the CMP for Newcastle’s Southern Beaches. Attendees gained valuable understanding of recent coastal process studies, hazard assessments, and strategic planning challenges involved in managing Newcastle’s dynamic coastline.

The event concluded with an opportunity for informal networking over drinks at the Clarendon Hotel.

A webinar option was also available for those unable to attend in person.

Guest Speakers

Philippa Hill – Senior Strategist – Environment, City of Newcastle
Philippa has been with the City of Newcastle since 2020, joining the team that delivered NSW’s first Coastal Management Program for Stockton in just three months. She is now leading the Extended Stockton CMP, which broadens the scope of investigations and supports the implementation of a mass beach nourishment strategy—the first of its kind in NSW. With over 20 years' experience at the intersection of local government and community-based coastal management, Philippa shared lessons from the transition between CMP phases and the ongoing complexities of pioneering large-scale coastal interventions.

Joshua van Leir – Environmental Strategist, City of Newcastle
Josh is leading the development of a CMP for Newcastle’s Southern Beaches (from Nobbys to Burwood). Previously a Senior Scientist with Fisheries New Zealand and an elected official on the Greater Wellington Regional Council, Josh brings a rich background in seascape ecology and governance. In this session, he presented recent findings on coastal processes and hazards affecting Newcastle’s Southern Beaches, discussed their implications, and outlined the City’s forward plans in this space.