Maritime Patrols ensure safety on NSW waterways

by Transport Roads and Maritime Services on 23 Apr 2015 Roads and Maritime Services has retrieved 26 cubic metres of debris from Sydney Harbour and the Parramatta and Lane Cove rivers after severe storms impacted the state's coast.

The storms dumped debris, rubbish and damaged vessels into the waterway network.

Director of Maritime Angus Mitchell said the haul was significantly greater than the 4.8 cubic metres of rubbish pulled from the harbour during the same period last year.

'In addition to the debris collected by environmental services vessels, maritime patrol vessels have recovered kayaks, tinnies and floating refuse from damaged vessels after the severe weather conditions lashed the coast,' Mr Mitchell said.

Any vessels recovered during storms are stored at Roads and Maritime's Rozelle depot for several months for owners to collect.

Mr Mitchell said yesterday's early morning patrol started before the first commuter ferry service with a number of tree branches and other large hazards removed along key routes.

“After the first patrol, teams continued patrolling, clearing the navigable waters, public beaches and foreshores to the mean high water mark of Sydney Harbour, Parramatta and Lane Cove rivers,” he said.

“This area included 5020 hectares of water, with a combined foreshore length of 270 kilometres.

“Last year the team collected and disposed of 1982 cubic metres of rubbish, ranging from large objects such as trees and tyres to debris washed into the harbour from local suburbs.

'Collections will continue and waterways will be monitored for safety of all users.'

To report any navigation hazards contact Roads and Maritime on 13 12 36.