Beachgoer’s Terrifying Quicksand Encounter Highlights Coastal Safety Concerns
A second beachgoer has recounted a harrowing experience of getting caught in quicksand along a stretch of Adelaide’s coast, describing a moment of “complete fear” before managing to free herself. The incident, which occurred at Glenelg North, has prompted renewed calls for caution and highlighted the potential dangers posed by recent earthworks.
Sarah Darbyshire was enjoying an afternoon walk with her dog on Saturday when she noticed her pet beginning to sink into the sand. In a quick-thinking manoeuvre, she scooped up her dog and moved him to a different spot. However, as she did so, she realised she too was being pulled down.
“It was soon up to my waist and I just really pushed myself,” Ms Darbyshire recounted. “I remember thinking, ‘No, this is not how it’s going to end’, and I pushed myself out. It was complete fear all through my body.”
This alarming event follows a similar incident just days earlier involving Madz June, who was walking near the same location and found her leg sinking straight through the surface. The 20-year-old, unable to free herself, had to call for emergency services to assist.
Ms Darbyshire believes the treacherous sinking sand may be a consequence of recent sand carting operations conducted along the beach. The Department for Environment and Water has confirmed that such work was indeed carried out in the area.
“Public safety signage was erected at every beach access pathway from Glenelg North to West Beach Boat Ramp before the work was carried out in the week of 27 April,” a spokesperson for the department stated. “That signage remains in place and the public is urged to take care during this stormy period.”
Ironically, Ms Darbyshire, a photographer, had been filming the beach that Saturday with the intention of showing her daughter the impact of the sand carting. In an unexpected turn of events, her phone, which she had placed in her pocket, continued recording and inadvertently captured her own terrifying ordeal.
“I just put my phone in my pocket, did not know it was still recording — and it was literally seconds,” she said. “How many people can say they’ve had a real Indiana Jones moment?”
While Ms Darbyshire can now look back on the experience with a degree of dark humour, she made the decision to share the video on social media as a stark warning to others.
“It was only when I got back to the car I realised I recorded … and I watched it and I thought, ‘Wow, some people need to know’, because it took everything in me to get me out, and if it was anyone else, with less strength, then it would be a whole different story,” she explained. “If it was a little child — and easily you could turn your back for a couple of seconds…”
The Department for Environment and Water spokesperson clarified that sand carting is a regular practice at the beach, occurring annually.
“Natural beach sand is collected from where it accumulates at West Beach Harbour and placed at Glenelg North to raise beach levels,” the spokesperson explained. “This annual work is vital to protect important coastal infrastructure, including the rock wall, roads and footpaths … and properties from winter storms, such as those forecast for this week.”
Understanding Quicksand and Coastal Works
Quicksand is not a special type of sand, but rather a condition where sand is saturated with water, reducing its ability to support weight. This often occurs in areas with a high water table, such as riverbeds, marshes, and coastal zones. When disturbed, the sand’s structure can collapse, creating a fluid-like mixture.
The sand carting operations mentioned involve moving sand from areas where it has naturally accumulated, often due to tidal patterns and currents, to other locations that require replenishment or reinforcement. This practice is common in coastal management to:
- Mitigate Erosion: By adding sand, beaches can be rebuilt and maintained, protecting them from the erosive forces of waves and storms.
- Protect Infrastructure: Raising beach levels can provide a buffer against storm surges, safeguarding coastal roads, pathways, and properties.
- Maintain Ecosystems: Healthy sand dunes and beach environments are crucial for various coastal flora and fauna.
However, as Ms Darbyshire’s experience illustrates, these works can temporarily alter the stability of the sand, creating unforeseen hazards.
Safety Measures and Public Awareness
The erection of public safety signage is a critical step in informing beachgoers about potential risks. These signs serve as a visual reminder to exercise caution, especially in areas where recent earthworks or unusual sand conditions have been noted.
Key safety advice for beachgoers, particularly in areas undergoing coastal works or known for unstable sand, includes:
- Heed Signage: Always pay attention to any warning signs posted by authorities.
- Stay on Designated Paths: Avoid venturing into areas that appear unstable or are marked as closed.
- Observe and Assess: Before walking on unfamiliar sand, especially near water, observe the conditions. Look for signs of waterlogging or unusual sand texture.
- Supervise Children and Pets: Keep a close eye on children and pets, as they are more vulnerable and may not recognise potential dangers.
- Be Prepared: If walking in areas with known risks, consider carrying a walking stick or pole that can be used to test the ground ahead.
- Know Your Limits: If you feel unsure or uncomfortable with the conditions, it’s best to turn back.
The Department for Environment and Water’s commitment to annual sand carting underscores the ongoing efforts to manage and protect Adelaide’s coastline. While these works are essential for long-term coastal resilience, they also necessitate heightened awareness and vigilance from the public to ensure safety during and after these operations. The experiences of individuals like Sarah Darbyshire and Madz June serve as potent reminders of the importance of respecting the power of nature and staying informed about the dynamic environment of our beaches.
