Beachgoers urged to take extra care at Pyramids

Annual sand bypassing has commenced at Pyramids Beach near Mandurah prompting a warning to beachgoers to stay well clear of the heavy machinery and take note of the directional signage. 

Undertaken each year, the $1.5 million project will see about 110,000 cubic metres of accumulated sand excavated from Pyramids Beach and pumped north of the entrance to the Dawesville Cut via pipes under the seabed. The work ensures safe navigation at the entrance to the Dawesville Cut and helps maintain sandy beaches to the north.

Department of Transport (DoT) Maritime Executive Director Chris Mather said the upcoming March long weekend and Easter break were likely to see an increased number of people on the beach. 

“At this time there is an increased risk to those visiting the beach, especially swimmers and surfers who get too close to machinery operating at the water’s edge,” Mr Mather said.

“Everyone is urged to stay well clear of the machinery and pipes at all times.”

Heavy machinery will be in operation at Pyramids Beach during the day, Monday to Friday and we ask people to observe the directional signage in place and abide by the restrictions until the completion of work in June this year.

DoT is also monitoring the beach daily for the possible return of a colony of Australian Fairy Terns known to nest there.  

“As we have in past years we are working closely with the City of Mandurah and Murdoch University and the works program will be adapted if required,” Mr Mather said.

“Last year bypassing works commenced at the most southern extent of the planned excavation area to give adequate time for the colony to vacate before works reached their nesting area.” 

Visit our website for more information about DoT’s dredging and sand bypassing program.

Media contact: media@transport.wa.gov.au