The Dell Eco Reef at Clifton Springs on the Bellarine Peninsula minimises coastal erosion and provides habitat for vulnerable marine life. Commisioned by The City of Greater Geelong, the forty-six erosion mitigation units help to reduce coastal erosion by creating a permeable barrier in shallow water 60 metres offshore. Designed and manufactured by Reef Design Lab, the 200cm wide units are manufactured from an eco-blend concrete mixture and locally sourced recycled shell aggregate. The units support shellfish restoration by creating an artificial reef, allowing oysters, mussels and other native species to thrive, and provide a tourist destination for recreational snorklers and swimmers. The Coastal and Estuarine Adaptation Lab at the University of Melbourne are monitoring biodiversity changes, and shellfish settlement and survival.

Shellfish

Method: Substrate provision, Seeding - aquaculture

Shellfish species: Ostrea angasi

Hybrid structure: Eco-blend concrete mix and recycled shell aggregate