Dredge starts on removal of channel sand
The "Port Frederick" trailing suction dredge will remove 30,000 cubic metres of sand from the Ettalong Channel in three to four weeks, according to Member for Gosford Ms Liesl Tesch.
The dredging follows sand build-up in the channel due to recent swells.
Four locations along the channel will be dredged, with additional dredging near Lobster Bay.
"I was thrilled to see the Port Frederick dredge arrive in the Ettalong Channel," said Ms Tesch.
"It has been fantastic to see dredging prioritised, with the dredge arriving in weeks, not months, not requiring political upheaval, just simply to return our channel to navigable standards.
Ms Tesch said: "The NSW Government is committed to establishing a 10-year dredging plan, ensuring that our dredging is managed via a strategic plan, rather than ad hoc emergency dredging.
"I look forward to the finalisation of this plan."
While dredging continues, the Palm Beach ferry will continue to divert to Patonga, and Transport for NSW will continue to operate a free alternative transport services from Wagstaffe to Patonga, she said.
SOURCE:
Media release, 26 May 2025
Liesl Tesch, Member for Gosford