Physical Modelling of Shell Cove Boat Harbour Entrance

Client: Patterson Britton and Partners
Year: 2005 - 2006
Project Reference: 02117

Both 2D wave flume and 3D wave basin modelling was undertaken by WRL to investigate a range of breakwater and entrance design aspects for the Shell Cove boat harbour entrance; on the NSW South Coast.

2D flume modelling was initially undertaken in WRL’s 1 m wave flume, to optimise the breakwater cross section and armour design. The testing investigated seven different breakwater cross sections using both rock and concrete armour units, with data being recorded for armour stability, wave transmission, and overtopping rates.

3D modelling was then undertaken in the wave basin to investigate the effects of waves from a range of directions. Analysis was undertaken for wave penetration into the entrance, armour stability, overtopping, beach alignment impacts, and wave generated currents.

Throughout the modelling program, significant design changes were made to optimise the entrance design, as a result of the hydraulic modelling investigation.