Understanding evolution of NSW coastal dunefields using LiDAR‐derived dune crest mapping

Studies have highlighted the need to understand how coastal dunefields evolve over time, to inform their future management. This thesis explores how sand supply can influence the formation and evolution of coastal dunefields through the analysis of LiDAR-derived DEMs. This thesis presents two papers; (1) exploring long-term evolution of NSW coastal dunefields, and (2) exploring the shorter mmigration patterns within the southern Newcastle Bight. Through volumetric analyses, utilising a novel automated dune crest mapping approach, it was found that the Seal Rocks dunefield experienced a decrease in sediment supply during the late Holocene, while Booderee and the Newcastle Bight experienced an increase in supply. We suggest that over the late Holocene, small variations in wave climates supplying sediment to these dunefields may have resulted in this variability; however any such fluctuation cannot be reliably detected from the orientation of the transgressive dunes. Short-term dune migration (2007-2013) within the southern Newcastle Bight was found to be dominated by the SW-NE oriented dunes moving towards the NW, and the NW-SE oriented dunes towards the NE.