TRANSPORT for NSW Maritime is installing an observation camera at the Coffs Harbour Boat Ramp to provide boaters with real-time, streamed vision on the conditions at the boat ramp and immediate surrounds.

“In addition, hydrographic seabed maps will be displayed at the boat ramp and uploaded to the project’s website,” NSW Maritime Executive Director, Mark Hutchings said.

Advertise with News of The Area today.
It’s worth it for your business.
Message us.
Phone us – (02) 4981 8882.
Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au

“These maps will be updated as frequently as possible to provide boaters and the general public with the most up-to-date information on the local seabed conditions.”

Transport for NSW Maritime say they have adopted a three-staged strategy for dealing with the issue of sand build-up.

“In the short-term, to keep the ramp open for boat users and to ensure the safety of boaters, we will carry out dredging works using a long-reach excavator to remove sand from the boat ramp precinct,” Mr Hutchings said.

“We are also in the process of planning dredging cutter suction work which is expected to start in July and continue for three to four months.

“In the medium term, we will look at other sand-removal strategies.

“We have brought in the sand-bypass team from Tweed Heads and we are looking at building sand traps at the eastern side of the groin – to assist in capturing sand moving naturally along the eastern extent of the breakwater and slowing its movement into the boat ramp area.

“In the long term, we have engaged an expert to review the sand build-up issue at the boat ramp so that more permanent solutions are identified and refined.”