Coffs Harbour Boat Ramp update

Coffs Harbour Boat Ramp © RFA of NSW

The long awaited upgrade to the Coffs Harbour boat ramp has not been without its problems and the RFA has this update to share.

Since February, sand has been collecting in that part of the channel at a consistent rate. The contractors continue to monitor the channel and remove any further sand build-up where it might affect safe navigation.

There are a range of measures in place to address sand build-up in the channel:

• Maritime are monitoring the channel depth daily and dredging as required.
• Maritime have organised for a specialised dredging barge - known as a cutter suction dredger - to help remove sand build-up, which is expected to arrive in coming weeks.
• Maritime will build a rigid hydraulic structure - known as a groyne - on the western side of the channel. This will enable dredging of the channel from the shoreline and improve access for dredging machines.

They are also developing an Addendum Review of Environmental Factors (AREF) for additional work, which includes:

• Increased dredging of the navigation channel
• Construction of a platform on the tip of the extended breakwater to allow access for a long-reach excavator to dredge
• An alternative sand deposition area on the seaward side of the breakwater
• Additional stockpile areas on land for increased sand deposition
• An ongoing plan for dredging the harbour and the incorporation of the boat ramp precinct into the Transport for NSW state-wide dredging strategy.

RFA advice for boaters

Vessel operators to navigate with extreme caution in the vicinity of the Coffs Harbour Boat Ramp. The boat ramp entrance is very shallow due to sand movement and may pose a navigation hazard to some vessels. Vessel operators are advised to assess the conditions prior to use, navigate with caution and check tides.

People have begun surfing at the channel entrance, so boaters need to especially be on the lookout for surfers and swimmers.