The evolution of Jumpinpin Inlet - OzCoasts

The evolution of Jumpinpin Inlet
Figure 3.2. Plan showing Jumpinpin and surrounds
(Source: Queensland Transport, June 1986)
Jumpinpin Inlet is classified as microtidal, experiencing a maximum tidal range of
2 metres. Flow velocities are high at around 4.5 knots as recorded by the Department
of Harbours and Marine (Maxwell, 1970). Such high flows are due to the small width
to volume ratio at the entrance. It is believed that the waters of the Albert, Logan,
Pimpama and Coomera rivers and tidal waters of the southern bay drain through the
inlet. As Maxwell (1970) notes, tide flow direction is varied although it appears to be
predominantly from the north.
The prevailing wind over Moreton Bay is the South-East Trade Wind which blows with
remarkable persistence for almost nine months of the year. The wind is responsible
for a predominantly southeast wave pattern. The swell is moderate to high energy
and approaches the coast at an angle. This generates longshore drift of sand in a
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