How does it all add up?

The report conducted by the Sunshine Coast Council only factors an estimate of remedial works around the campground, yet nothing for the northern beaches into its cost/benefit model. If it were to factor in the remedial work required for the northern beaches, it would make the rock groin option far less cost effective. Additionally, the report makes assumptions the groyne will reduce the cost of sand replenishment to Maroochydore beach by half. 

The report also attributes a benefit of over $1 million for the extra beach gained at Maroochydore without factoring in the loss of Flathead Point and loss of beach area to the north as negative outcomes. 

Cotton Tree is home to a world class, family friendly, recreational asset which has a sandy connectivity from the beach around to a safe estuary. A 200m rock groyne has the potential to negatively change this asset dramatically, thereby reducing visitor numbers and the tourist dollar.

Tourism is by far the most dominant benefit in the cost/benefit analysis. The report makes no mention of how these potential flow on effects could reduce visitor numbers to the Cotton Tree Precinct. 

A cost/benefit analysis that hasn't considered effects on tourism, significant additional remedial works and coastal processes affecting all Sunshine Coast beaches (not just Maroochydore beach) should be considered invalid without further study.