Residents of the coastal town of Lancelin, north of Perth, are racing to protect homes, businesses and public infrastructure as severe coastal erosion continues to eat away at the town's beachfront.
At the centre of the concern is the Lancelin Sands Hotel, a landmark beachfront pub that locals say is now dangerously close to the encroaching ocean. According to owner Glen Trebilcock, the shoreline has moved dramatically during 2026, shrinking the distance between the sea and the hotel from about 15 metres to just seven metres within a matter of months. He fears that without urgent intervention, the building could be seriously threatened within the next year.
The erosion has been driven by a combination of powerful winter storms, high tides and changing coastal conditions that have accelerated the loss of sand along the town's foreshore. Residents say the pace of erosion is far greater than expected, with independent assessments reportedly suggesting the coastline is changing decades earlier than previously predicted.
Rather than waiting for government action, local business owners and community members have launched a fundraising campaign to construct a protective seawall. The proposed structure would stretch approximately 100 metres along the vulnerable section of coastline to help shield the hotel, a nearby caravan park and surrounding dunes from further erosion. Organisers estimate the project will cost around $150,000, with tens of thousands of dollars already pledged by supporters shortly after the campaign began.
Mr Trebilcock said the hotel is not only a business but an important part of the town's tourism industry and community life. Losing it would have significant economic consequences for Lancelin, which attracts visitors for its beaches, fishing, sand dunes and water sports. Local operators fear continuing erosion could also discourage investment and affect nearby residential properties if protective measures are not implemented.
Community members argue the issue extends beyond a single building. They say coastal erosion threatens public spaces, tourism infrastructure and the long-term future of the seaside town, making urgent mitigation work essential. Volunteers have rallied behind the campaign, hoping a combination of community funding and government support can deliver a permanent solution before the next storm season.
Coastal erosion has become an increasing challenge for many Western Australian communities as changing weather patterns, stronger storm systems and rising sea levels place greater pressure on vulnerable shorelines. Local governments continue to investigate engineering solutions while balancing environmental considerations and long-term coastal management strategies.
Despite the uncertainty, Lancelin residents remain determined to preserve their town's iconic beachfront. Community leaders say the overwhelming support for the fundraising campaign reflects how strongly locals value the area's tourism attractions and unique coastal lifestyle. They hope early action will protect businesses, maintain visitor confidence and ensure future generations can continue enjoying one of Western Australia's best-known beach destinations.
