WHENEVER seas have swollen off the Hunter's coast in recent years, eyes have turned towards Stockton's embattled shore line.
It has been almost two years since erosion forced the permanent closure of the suburb's only childcare centre and left many wondering whether the surfing spot would ever exist in its former glory.
Deputy Premier John Barilaro assuaged many of those fears this week after confirming surveys had found three sources of sand that could be used to replenish the beach.
"Exploration has provided us with this critical information that could help resolve decades of erosion issues at Stockton Beach, and it would be fantastic if this approach could be used to ensure other beaches can be enjoyed for many more years to come," Mr Barilaro said.
Mr Barilaro was clear that he had no problem with the state government picking up a "significant chunk", but it would fall to City of Newcastle to take the initial steps toward the solution.
For years Stockton residents have been left wondering if their beach could, let alone would, be restored. They have been forced to mull the prospect that failure to find a source of sand could prove a death knell for bringing back the beach.
The discovery of sand suitable for the task is an important step, one that was never guaranteed. It is also one that offers at least the certainty that there is a possibility things can be put right. Mr Barilaro's words regarding funding and support are comforting, but it is likely many residents will join City of Newcastle in waiting until they see such promises come to fruition before they celebrate fully. What is clear though, is that their efforts have helped guide the government to what now appears a viable solution.
The process towards actually implementing that solution is the next barrier between Stockton and the sea. City of Newcastle's efforts to stabilise the suburb have offered a stop-gap fix, and it is hard to imagine that anyone believes this is a project that can afford to bide its time without a very real risk the challenge grows worse.
Stockton has done plenty of waiting. This project demands to be a priority, particularly given its potential to assist elsewhere if it proves a success. Erosion in the area is not fixed yet, but this first step offers more promise than the suburb has had to date. May there be more soon.
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