Regular dredging 'needed' at Ettalong

Regular dredging of the Ettalong Channel is needed because "propagation of the flood tide shoals is an ongoing process", according to the draft Brisbane Water Estuary Management Plan.

The plan recommends the periodic dredging of the channel as navigation through the entrance to Brisbane Water can at times be difficult due to the propagation of a flood tide delta.

The plan stated that the navigation channel markers are periodically relocated by NSW Maritime as required, but navigation can become difficult due to the strong currents in this region which can lead to issues with boating safety.

The plan stated that the community was also concerned that sedimentation at the entrance to Brisbane Water had impacts on the tidal flushing of the estuary upstream of this point, and that sedimentation issues are worsened due to a decrease in velocity in the main channels.

Dredging would see the removal of approximately 50,000 cubic metres of material from the Ettalong channel, although the optimal volume to be dredged would be dependent upon the dredging scenario adopted.

The plan suggests there was "potential for beach nourishment with the dredge spoils".

Beach nourishment at Ettalong was recommended to address "shoreline recession".

The beach would require ongoing maintenance.

The project would involve reviewing available reports, photogrammetry and other relevant information, and would include additional detailed investigations of morphological processes at the beach.

Design profiles would be developed for the beach.

Website, 13 Jun 2011 Items on Exhibition, Gosford Council