Over 100 navigation markers being reinstalled on South Coast waterways

by Transport Roads and Maritime Services on 1 Sep 2015 Roads and Maritime Services advises boaters to remain vigilant and take extra care on southern NSW waterways in the wake of recent flooding.

Maritime Director Angus Mitchell said Roads and Maritime Boating Safety Officers were in the process of reinstating more than 100 navigation markers, mainly on the Shoalhaven and Crookhaven rivers to improve boater safety.

“Skippers are reminded to avoid boating unless necessary and, if heading out on the water, to navigate with extreme care for the next week as some navigation hazards will not be marked until the process is completed,” Mr Mitchell said.

“Reinstatement of navigation markers will be prioritised and replacements are being sourced for those which have been found to be missing or damaged.

“Several navigation markers have been found along Seven Mile Beach and even in the Crooked River which is too shallow for anything but kayaking and canoeing.

“There is also still a considerable amount of moving, submerged and semi-submerged debris which could pose a problem for safe boating.”

Mr Mitchell said many private moorings in the Shoalhaven River have shifted location after the mooring blocks were lifted and moved during recent floods.

“Boaters are also advised a Telstra phone cable has also fallen into the upper reaches of the Shoalhaven River west of Nowra, about four kilometres from the Boral quarry site, which could present a navigation hazard but not an electrical hazard. Anchoring should be avoided in this area.

“Boaters should also be advised the Greys Beach boat ramp into the Shoalhaven River has also been closed due to mud and sand build up. The Greenwell Point mooring area has also sustained major siltation which is causing some vessels to touch the bottom on low tide.

“Motorists should also be advised the Commerong Island vehicle ferry is still out of service.”

For information on safe boating click here