Ferries diverted as sand builds up before expected

Sand build-up in the Ettalong Channel has caused the Palm Beach ferry to be diverted to Patonga from last Saturday, May 2.

The diversion will remain in place until after dredging takes place, which is expected to be completed "mid-May".

Member for Gosford Ms Liesl Tesch announced: "Replacement shuttle buses will run on a loop service between Ettalong and Patonga to meet the Palm Beach to Patonga ferries.

"The shuttle bus will leave about 30 minutes prior to the Palm Beach ferry departure from Patonga Wharf.

"A ferry shuttle will service passengers between Wagstaffe and Ettalong wharves."

Ms Tesch said: "I will continue to work with Transport for NSW and the Minister to ensure that our community can get back to normal as soon as possible."

She said passenger safety was being prioritised as sand shoaling disrupted safe entry to the channel for ferry services.

"The Ettalong Channel was last dredged in May 2025 and since then sand shoaling has returned to the channel much sooner than forecast," she said.

"Transport for NSW is working with the ferry operator to keep the community informed as planning for dredging works in mid-May (weather permitting) to restore adequate depth to the channel are finalised.

"Customers are advised to allow for extra travel time and use the Trip Planner or check travel alerts." Ms Tesch said: "This is no doubt disappointing for regular users of the ferry services at Ettalong but with sand shoaling obstructing navigation in the channel this is a necessary safety measure.

"The Government is committed to maintaining safe and reliable waterways for the Central Coast." said Ms Tesch.

NSW Maritime executive director Mr Mark Hutchings said: "Having only dredged the channel a year ago, the sand shoaling we have identified in the waterway has returned much sooner than forecast."

SOURCE:

Media release, 1 May 2026

Joely Langmaid, Office of the Member for Gosford

Mary Mac's makes urgent call for food

The Mary Mac's Place community kitchen has called for urgent donations of food.

"We are in desperate need of a number of items," said project worker Ms Sally Baker.

The items included tinned tuna, Big Eat cans, tinned ham and corned beef, and three-minute noodles.

"If anyone can help it would be much appreciated," Ms Baker said.

Items can be dropped to 100 Blackwall Rd, Woy Woy, between 8am and 1pm Monday to Friday.

Mary Mac's provides hot lunches, showers, laundry facilities, and companionship to people who are homeless, transient, socially-isolated, or experiencing financial hardship.

SOURCE:

Social media, 1 May 2026

Mary Mac's Place