Dredge maintenance work underway

Wyong Shire Council is undertaking routine inspection and maintenance work on the dredge, after removing it from Tuggerah Lake at the start of the week.

This has been a major operation that involved the construction of a temporary structure at The Entrance North to adequately carry out the operation.

Council’s assistant manager of Plant and Fleet Paul Ogden said surveying of the dredge is routinely required by NSW Maritime.

“NSW Maritime conducts an annual in-water survey inspection to ensure the hull is sea worthy and every third year, a more comprehensive out-of-water inspection is required” Mr Ogden said.

“This is to attest the dredge complies with the Commercial Vessels Act 1979 and the Uniform Shipping Laws Code.”

Development approval for the temporary structure at The Entrance North’s Terilbah Reserve was issued under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act and NSW Department of Industry and Investment (Fisheries).

State Government is required to grant approval to ensure the health of the lake and its estuaries and to alleviate any potential flood risks to properties surrounding the lake edge.

The southern end of Terilbah Reserve was identified as a viable dredge haul-out site, as this area is devoid of large quantities of sea grass existing along other sections of Terilbah Channel, meaning the environmental impact was minimal.

“Terilbah Reserve was also selected as the appropriate location for this work because of the amount of open space we need, as the dredge is approaching 30 metres long,” Mr Ogden said.

The temporary development will not permanently impact upon the local community and surrounding environment.

It is anticipated the dredge will be back in the water by mid October, barring any major work that may be required.

Council will also remediate the dredge haul out area on completion of the works.

Media contact: Cameron Bell (02) 4350 1667

Page last updated: 01/10/09