That is the concern of local geological engineer Tim Minty, who is one of the experts to speak at a public meeting this Sunday about the erosion issue and possible solutions.

The meeting, at Rushby Casino, Old Bar, at 2.30pm, Sunday, was called by the newly formed 'Old Bar Beach Sand Replenishment Group', who are concerned residents trying to find what possible remedies there are.

Anyone with an interest in the future of the area is encouraged to attend.

Tim Minty said erosion at Old Bar is occurring at a significant rate with measurements taken in 1998 and 2008 showing the area's foredune has come back 18 metres in 10 years.

Additionally, the water line is 80 metres closer than it was a decade ago.

"It leads me to conclude that we really have to do something fairly drastic. With the rate of erosion the foredune is at risk," he said.

If nothing is done he said the ocean could potentially reach Racecourse Creek sometime in the future, which could cause issues for new housing estates currently in development.

His suggestion is that a groyne (either rock or concrete) be constructed at the Lewis Street end (similar to the one placed at the mouth of Racecourse Creek), which will help reduce the ferocity of the waves and protect the front of the dune.

The groyne, which he said would be the cheapest solution in the long term, would give more protection to the area and even potentially improve surfing on the beach.

Three Lewis Street homes were lost to dune erosion earlier this year.

At the meeting Mr Minty will explain the gravity of the erosion situation to residents, explain the history of the coastline, his studies and work in the area and, most importantly, his opinion of options and remedial work.

Also to speak will be Robert Sirasch, who has extensive experience and consults on ocean activity, beach erosion and remedial action; as well as surveyor and member of Farquhar Inlet Management Group, Grant Calvin.

Mr Calvin will speak about the blocking of the inlet (it is believed sand from Old Bar Beach is blocking the mouth of Farquhar Inlet), the options being investigated by the group and the outcomes they are hoping for.

A number of government officials have been invited to the meeting and they are encouraged to attend, along with the wider community.