THE Myall River Action Group have expressed concerns over the rapid closing of the ‘Shortcut’ at the mouth of the Myall River.

“The ‘Shortcut’ is closing rapidly and now (only) usable by recreational craft at half to full tide,” said Gorgon Grainger, Myall River Action Group.

“Larger craft such as the ferries are now forced to use the ‘navigational’, man-made channel, which adds 40 minutes to the ferry round trip – time and fuel needlessly wasted.”

Council have budgeted to dredge the outlet on a five-year basis.

The Group argues that the current outlet will not provide a serviceable entrance when the current left-hand turn is employed for the full five-year period.

“It is our contention that the natural entrance known as Myall Point should be pursued,” said Gordon.

“The entrance is the historic outlet, flowing in a South East direction, providing shelter, deep water and a longer period of navigation, particularly if the current navigation channel is allowed to return to its original role as a
creek.

“Aerial photos show Mother Nature to be taking that route – we should help!”

Historically, Myall Point provided a deep water, sheltered entrance to the Myall.

It provided a safe entrance to the town of Tea Gardens and was destroyed by a cyclone in 1927, believed to have been caused by mankind’s removal of protective trees.

“We would also like to point out that the river suffers from sand migration, causing potential hazards to river traffic.

“In view we are just one of many similar blockages along the NSW coast.

“There is an argument to employ a state-owned dredge to service these requirements,” Gordon said.