Expert: expect change to bigger surf

Jane Emerick
Global warming promises bigger waves for the region’s surfers, according to a climate change expert.
But CSIRO scientist Dr Kathleen McInnes said big waves from extreme storms could also flood homes and erode beaches along the Surf Coast and Bellarine Peninsula.
Dr McInnes will speak about the impacts of global warming on the region’s coast during a forum in Geelong tomorrow.
“Extreme storms will result in windgenerated waves. Stronger winds mean stronger waves, which are the most destructive part of storms and carry the most energy,” Dr McInnes said.
“These would come as extreme storm surges and I doubt people would want to surf.”
Forum organiser Graeme Stockton, of Surfers Appreciating Natural Environment, said rising sea levels could also damage the region’s popular lowtide breaks, such as Winkipop.
“But this isn’t about surfing. The thrust of global warming is much more than a lifestyle issue – it’s literally about preserving life on earth,” Mr Stockton said.
Mr Stockton’s group, Jan Juc Coast Action, Friends of the Bluff and Marine and Coastal Community Network will host the forum with support from City of Greater Geelong.
The forum will run from 2pm to 5pm at Geelong Performing Arts Centre.