Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch has welcomed a NSW Government allocation of $44M to the new Boating Infrastructure and Dredging Scheme.
Tesch said the money would support the delivery of much-needed boating infrastructure and dredging works across NSW, including in the Ettalong Channel.
Of the $44M commitment, $16M has been allocated over three years for dredging at key locations along the NSW Coast, including $8.5M for dredging projects at Swansea, Ettalong, Coffs Harbour and Myall River.
This funding will ensure boating accessibility and safe waterway navigation, as well as continuing towards ongoing dredging projects.
Tesch said the funding would also enable NSW Maritime to continue developing of a 10-year dredging plan of nine high-priority locations, including the Ettalong Channel.
“The NSW Government is committed to improving safety and accessibility for all water users on our waterways, and I am thrilled to see the commitment of funding for ongoing dredging works along the NSW Coastline, including at Ettalong,” she said.
“Central Coast locals are all too aware that dredging of the Ettalong Channel has been an ongoing issue, which has previously been completed in a haphazard way under the former government once the channel becomes completely impassable.
“It is fantastic to see the ongoing commitment of the NSW Government to creating a 10-year dredging plan, which will include a plan for long-term maintenance dredging of the entire Ettalong Channel.”
The Boating Infrastructure and Dredging Scheme will also commit $28M towards public boating amenities over four years.
This will include improving access for older boaters and boaters with a disability, funding got minor repair and maintenance works on boating infrastructure owned by councils and community groups and funding support to repair and replace assets impacted by natural disasters and severe weather events.
“Central Coast waterways are some of the most beautiful in the world,” Tesch said.
“I am so passionate about the importance of our waterways to the quality of life of Coasties, and getting out in a boat is one of the best ways to take in the beauty of Central Coast waterways and beyond.
“This program will support our local community to plan for, build and maintain waterway infrastructure, reinvesting boating fees into public infrastructure, keeping it safe and accessible for future generations.”
Registrations of interest for the grants programs will be open later this year, with successful applicants to be announced in 2025.