Bathymetric evolution at a coastal inlet after channel-edge groyne emplacement: a case study from the Gippsland Lakes, Victoria, Australia

Digital capture and analyses of time-series (1941-2005) digital elevation models (DEMs), developed for the Gippsland Lakes artificial entrance area (situated in Victoria, Australia) from analogue hydrographic charts, allows the long-term bathymetric results of rubble training wall (or groyne) emplacement in the Reeves Channel to be examined. Reeves Channel form has progressively become sinuous, and extensive flood-tide delta shoaling areas have also developed since groyne field installation. It is argued that deviance from original Reeves Channel groyne emplacement design (proposed by a Royal Commission report in 1927) may have contributed heavily to the time-series development of Reeves Channel sinuosity and flood-tide delta accretion.