Restoration works progress at Mandalay Beach following major material airlift
Helicopter lifts 9 tonnes of materials into remote Bibbulmun Track restoration site
A significant milestone has been reached in the restoration of a fragile coastal section of the Bibbulmun Track near Mandalay Beach, with more than 9,000 kilograms of materials and equipment successfully airlifted into remote stockpile locations.
Delivered by Helicopter Logistics, the operation marks the transition from planning into on-ground works for a section of Track first constructed more than 25 years ago. Over time, this stretch has become a high-maintenance priority, with increasing walker numbers contributing to erosion and sand slippage along the exposed coastal environment.
The airlift was supported by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) Walpole District team, along with local landowner Thomas Gerner, whose property served as a staging point for the deliveries.
The project will focus on stabilising the Track and restoring surrounding vegetation between Mandalay Beach and Long Point.
Bibbulmun Track Foundation Maintenance Manager Andrew Chiswell said the milestone enables vital works to begin in a challenging and remote location.
“This is a fragile part of the Track, and over time we’ve seen increasing erosion and sand movement as more people walk this section,” he said.
“By airlifting materials into place, our volunteer teams can focus on stabilising the Track properly, protecting the surrounding environment, and improving conditions for walkers.”
Volunteer-led works to begin
From early May, three week-long volunteer campaigns will begin, with teams based in local accommodation in Walpole and Northcliffe. Volunteers will carry out a range of stabilisation and restoration activities, including:
- repairing and replacing damaged steps
- installing sections of trackpad to reduce slippage
- stabilising the Track surface in erosion-prone areas
- restoring informal walk-arounds that are further impacting the environment
- supporting revegetation along disturbed trail margins
These works are designed to improve both the walking experience and the long-term resilience of this coastal section.
Supporting regional communities
More than 100,000 walks are recorded on the Bibbulmun Track each year, contributing an estimated $13 million annually to regional Western Australian communities through spending on accommodation, meals, fuel and supplies.
By investing in the sustainability of the Track, the project helps ensure these benefits continue for years to come.
Looking ahead
As walker numbers continue to grow, projects like this play an important role in balancing access with conservation. The Mandalay Beach works will help protect a sensitive coastal environment while maintaining a safe and enjoyable experience for those walking the Track.
The Bibbulmun Track Foundation acknowledges the support of the State Natural Resource Management Program, DBCA Walpole District staff, Helicopter Logistics, and local landholder Thomas Gerner in delivering this important milestone.
For more information about the project and the Community Stewardship Grant, visit:
https://www.bibbulmuntrack.org.au/bibbulmun-track-foundation-secure-grant-to-restore-mandalay-beach-section/
This project is supported by funding from the Western Australian Government’s State NRM Program.
Supported by funding from the Western Australian Government’s State NRM Program
