2026-03-19
Member for Ballina Tamara Smith has welcomed the completion of emergency repair works to the Belongil Beach vehicle access ramp with a $50,000 brokered from the State Government, acknowledging the work of Byron Shire Council to deliver the project, and saying the restored access point is an important safety outcome for the community and emergency services.
Ms Smith said the work was a positive step following damage caused by Cyclone Alfred, but noted that ongoing, recurrent funding will be required to support coastal restoration and resilience across the Byron Shire coastline.
“It is very welcome to see these works completed at Belongil Beach,” Ms Smith said.
“This vehicle ramp is a vital access point for emergency services and an important piece of infrastructure for community safety.
“Belongil is one of a number of coastal sites impacted by severe weather and erosion as a result of climate change, and while this repair is important, we know additional restoration works and adaptations will still be needed in other areas.”
“Our coastline remains under pressure and further investment will be required for restoration and resilience works into the future,” she said.
“I will continue working with all levels of government to advocate for the funding and support needed to protect our beaches, dune systems and coastal communities.
“Communities right across the North Coast know that recovery does not end with one repair job. We need a long-term commitment to adapting and strengthening the ecosystems and infrastructure that protect our communities and keep people safe.”
Ms Smith also said the completion of the Belongil access ramp highlights the importance of timely repairs to critical infrastructure following major weather events.
“This access point has been compromised for 12 months, and it’s important that essential infrastructure like this is restored as quickly as possible,” she said.
“Emergency access matters. When severe weather damages key infrastructure like this, as it will continue to, communities need timely repairs and adapted longer-term plans for resilience.”