‘Size of a small car’: Warning after rock fall at popular SA beach
Beachgoers are being issued a warning after a large rock fall at one of the state’s most popular beaches. See the pictures.
Beachgoers have been warned not to climb or seek shelter under the cliffs at Port Willunga after a mass rockfall over the weekend.
On Sunday, local photographer Barbara Martin captured the rock collapse along a section of the picturesque cliff face to the south of the popular stretch of beach.
“I’m a local of 52 years, so I’ve seen a lot of rock falls,” Martin told InDaily.
“But this is one of the biggest in terms of the size of the boulders.
“The big boulder is the size of a small car.”
Facebook user Barbara Martin posted images of a rock fall at Port Willunga on Sunday morning. Picture: via Barbara Martin Facebook
She said it was “pretty scary” and the cliffs must have collapsed with “force”, because they had scattered. It was believed no one was hurt by the rock fall.
“I think it’s important people are aware these cliffs can be very unstable. A lot of times I’ve seen people leave their gear or shelter in them.
“But it really is just a matter of time, because if they go you wouldn’t have a chance to get away.”
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According to Onkaparinga Council, which has been contacted for comment, the collapse of the cliffs along the 31km stretch of coast between Port Noarlunga and Sellicks beach was not uncommon.
“Cliff erosion is a natural process, meaning those majestic cliffs can crumble and collapse without warning,” the council posted on its website.
It urged beachgoers to avoid standing, sitting, or sheltering near the base of cliffs, recommending a 10m buffer “both the base and tops of cliffs for extra peace of mind”.
It also warned against climbing the rock faces and avoiding caves and overhangs.
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