Government and Council move on Ettalong beach safety
The State Government and Central Coast Council have taken concerted action to improve safety at Ettalong Beach, ahead of the seasonal influx of jetskis.
A 300 metre "paddle craft only" zone has been introduced at Ettalong Beach, while the Kourung Ave boat ramp has been closed.
"The beautiful Ettalong Beach is so popular with young families, seniors and those with accessibility needs due to the gentle waters," said Member for Gosford Ms Liesl Tesch.
"Too often, we have seen people breaking the law, or ruining the experiences of others at Ettalong Beach.
"The creation of this zone will ensure that everyone can enjoy our waterways."
Ms Tesch said: "This new 300-metre zone will be clearly marked with signage indicating the paddle craft only zone.
She said water users in the area would be limited to watercraft without a motor, restricting the shoreline area to swimmers and non-motorised water users such as kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.
"Disobeying the signage and using motorised vessels, including jet skis, will result in a $250 penalty notice under the Marine Safety Act."
She said the closure of the Kourung Ave boat ramp by Central Coast Council was "an important piece of the puzzle in addressing antisocial behaviour along the Ettalong foreshore".
Ms Tesch said the new measures would complement the introduction of the 20-knot speed limit for the Ettalong Channel, introduced in 2020.
She said signage was already in place, indicating the location of restricted swimming areas.
Maritime NSW Boating Safety Officers would also be visiting the area over the coming weeks, undertaking community education awareness.
This started on Saturday with the visit of NSW Maritime's senior boating safety officer Mr Nathan Adamson, pictured with Ms Tesch.
"It can be very intimidating when jet skis pull up at the same time," he said.
Ms Tesch said the zone made it safer for families and general public while still allowing plenty of room around the bay for vessels to roam.
"This is something that the community has been calling for for some time."
Ms Tesch attributed the changes to "the power of the people".
"Since my election, I have been representing our community's concerns to Council, police and Maritime NSW about the use of jet skis along this stretch, raising concerns about the increased water traffic and unsafe interactions that occur each summer season."
"This change will mean that waterway users of all types can enjoy Ettalong Beach again, with safety front of mind."
She said beach goers who saw unsafe personal watercraft use, including the breaking of new Paddle Craft Only Area rules, could contact the Personal Watercraft Complaints Line on 13 12 36.
Community members who witnessed any anti-social behaviour were encouraged to call local police on the Police Assistance Line on 131 444.
SOURCE:
Media release, 19 Nov 2024
Liesl Tesch, Member for Gosford