A KING tide happens twice a year and people are being asked to photograph this month’s phenomenon in Hobsons Bay for future generations.
Hobsons Bay Council has paired with Green Cross, an organisation founded by former Soviet Union president Mikhail Gorbachev, for the ‘Witness King Tides’ project.
Waves are expected to peak at one metre above mean sea level at 4.15pm on Sunday, May 26.
The photo above, dating pre-1970s and provided by the Altona Laverton Historical Society, shows what Altona looks like immersed in water — before flood-prevention measures.
The phenomenon, which happens twice a year, in summer and in winter, is caused by the Earth’s rotation, the alignment of the moon and sun, and their gravitational pull on water. It will give onlookers a glimpse into the future of Williamstown and Altona beaches when sea levels rise.
Along with the west’s two swimming beaches, Hobsons Bay’s coastline includes Cheetham Wetlands.
