May 26, 2025, Ling Meng

Professor Xiao Hua Wang, a leading expert in coastal science，UNSW, participated in Batemans Bay Dredging and Dumping Information Session at Bay Pavilions in Batemans Bay, NSW, from May 13-14, 2025. The event is organized by NSW Transport. During the event Professor Wang engaged in open discussions with local residents and NSW Transport representatives including Mr David Hopper, Principal Manager Dredging, Ms. Crystal Leanne, the NSW Transport for Community Engagement and Ms. Charlie Payne NSW Transport for Environment.

 

Accompanied by Dr. Yaocheng Deng, Professor Wang listened closely to concerns raised by local community members, including issues such as ongoing beach erosion at Surfside Beach, Modelling need for total sediment load transported across an alongshore cross-section, and the lack of long-term environmental monitoring. Residents voiced their desire for more observational evidence in project planning and stronger communication with scientific advisors. He emphasized the importance of transparent communication and evidence-based decision-making in managing coastal infrastructure projects.

“Dredging projects must be guided not only by engineering needs but also by oceanographic understanding and local hydrodynamics,” Professor Wang noted during the meeting. His comments were met with appreciation from attendees who welcomed his willingness to engage directly and respectfully.

 

Professor Wang also held constructive talks with NSW Transport officials, focusing on enhancing environmental monitoring and fostering collaboration between scientists and policymakers. The discussions reflected a shared commitment to sustainable and inclusive coastal management.

The meeting concluded with a mutual understanding of the need for continued dialogue, scientific oversight, and community involvement. Dr. Deng expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to accompany Professor Wang and observe the depth of engagement between stakeholders.