The completion of stage one dredging in the Swansea Channel will ensure boaters can enjoy better access to Lake Macquarie.
Almost 16,700 cubic metres of sand were removed from three areas to create a 30-metre-wide waterway, extending from the Dog Leg southeast of Elizabeth Island up to the Drop Over northwest of the Swan Bay Entrance.
The second phase of the project is scheduled to begin mid-2024.
“This is a huge result for Swansea,” local MP Yasmin Catley explained.
“I said we’d get this done… and that’s exactly what’s happened.
“What I’m hearing from the boaties who’ve seen this project take shape and people on the vessels coming through is that it’s a success.
“Since day one, the Minns government has committed to dredging the Swansea Channel.
“I’m proud to deliver for the locals in Swansea and everyone else who loves to enjoy our beautiful waterways.
“We’re in this for the long haul.
“And, we’ll keep doing the work to keep the channel flowing as it should.”
Minister for Transport Jo Haylen agreed.
“The Lake Macquarie region is a beautiful part of New South Wales that attracts boaters and yachties from up and down the coast,” she said.
“As the gateway to Lake Macquarie, it’s so important that the Swansea Channel is safe and accessible for boat users.
“We’ve removed years of sand build-up in this campaign.
“We will keep monitoring the channel in preparation for more dredging work later this year.”
As part of the dredging operation, Transport for NSW (TfNSW) also worked with experts to create a desirable breeding area for endangered birds by placing dredged sand on Elizabeth Island.
Lake Macquarie is now awash with adorable Little Tern chicks, with the professionals counting eight nests and at least 10 hatchlings in the area.
“This is a timely reminder to keep your distance from these vulnerable birds and their nests,” migratory shorebird expert Phil Straw said.
“Please do not approach them, be sure to keep dogs away, and respect all signage and fencing around the nesting area.”
NSW Maritime executive director Mark Hutchings congratulated everyone involved in the dredging project for their efforts.
“It has created a safer channel for boaters and a successful breeding season for the endangered Little Terns,” he said.
“Thanks to the work of our team, the threatened Little Tern population is breeding again on Elizabeth Island and boaters are enjoying better access to Lake Macquarie.
“It’s always fantastic when our work has a positive impact not just for the community but also on the broader environment.
“If you’re on the water this Australia Day, remember to not only look out for your little ones but these special chicks, too.”
For more community stories:
- Ecological burn sparks new life for Lake Mac site
- Fishers called to keep Lake Macquarie waters clean
- New Foreshore Park kiosk, amenities block concept unveiled
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