Transport for NSW Regional Boating Plan Taree - Great Lakes Region Consultation Draft July 2014
Transport for NSW 18 Lee Street Chippendale NSW 2008 Postal address: PO Box K659 Haymarket NSW 1240 ISBN Register: 978 1 922030 68 9 www.transport.nsw.gov.au email: [email protected]
© COPYRIGHT STATE OF NSW THROUGH THESECRETARY OF TRANSPORT FOR NSW 2014 Extracts from this publication may be reproduced provided the source is fully acknowledged.
GHD | Report for Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 | i Table of contents
1. Introduction...... 4
2. Physical character of the waterways ...... 6 2.1 Background ...... 6 2.2 Manning catchment ...... 7 2.3 Wallis Lake ...... 8 2.4 Smiths Lake ...... 9 3. Waterway users ...... 10 3.1 Analysis of waterway users ...... 11 3.2 Regional site visits ...... 12 3.3 Consultation to date ...... 12 4. Safety ...... 15 4.1 Overview of existing safety activities ...... 15 4.2 Complaints ...... 17 4.3 Infringements ...... 17 4.4 Incidents ...... 18 4.5 Consultation feedback ...... 20 4.6 Key findings ...... 20 4.7 Actions ...... 21 5. Access ...... 23 5.1 Overview of existing access facilities ...... 24 5.2 Consultation feedback ...... 27 5.3 Key findings ...... 28 5.4 Actions ...... 29 6. Storage ...... 31 6.1 Existing storage ...... 32 6.2 Consultation feedback ...... 35 6.3 Key findings ...... 35 6.4 Actions ...... 36 7. Other issues raised during consultation ...... 38 7.1 Overall analysis of ‘other’ issues ...... 38 7.2 Snapshot of ‘other’ issues ...... 38 8. Detailed opportunities to support Actions ...... 40 Summary of key actions ...... 40 9. References ...... 51
ii | Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 Table index
Table 1 – External stakeholders consulted at a regional level ...... 12 Table 2 – Profile of survey respondents ...... 13 Table 3 – Perceived importance of safety issues – survey responses ...... 20 Table 4 – List of Grants provided to Taree – Great Lakes Region through the BBP projects ...... 25 Table 5 – Perceived importance of access and infrastructure issues – survey responses ...... 28 Table 6 – Perceived importance of storage issues – survey responses ...... 35 Table 7 - Location based key issues, potential solutions and opportunities ...... 41
Figure index
Figure 1 – Map of regions ...... 4 Figure 2 – Manning catchment ...... 7 Figure 3 – Wallis Lake and surrounds ...... 8 Figure 4 – Smiths Lake and surrounds ...... 9 Figure 5 – Infringement analysis ...... 18 Figure 6 – Survey response – overall safety satisfaction ...... 20 Figure 7 – Examples of locations with safety issues ...... 22 Figure 8 – Example access facilities within the region ...... 25 Figure 9 – Completed BBP projects examples within the region ...... 27 Figure 10 – Survey response – overall satisfaction with access and infrastructure facilities ...... 27 Figure 11 – Examples of access issues ...... 30 Figure 12 – Crowdy boat harbour (top row), private marinas on the Manning River and boatshed in Forster (bottom row) ...... 32 Figure 13 – Examples of commercial vessel storage in Forster, and rowing club in Taree...... 33 Figure 14 – Survey response – overall satisfaction of storage facilities ...... 35 Figure 15 – Examples of storage issues identified during regional site visits ...... 37
Appendices
Appendix A – Details of Stakeholder Consultation Appendix B – Maps
GHD | Report for Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 | iii 1. Introduction
The NSW Government is seeking to improve the experience of recreational boating across NSW through the development of Regional Boating Plans. These plans will identify the priority projects and actions over the coming years in order to keep our waterways safe, improve accessibility and enhance the overall boating experience.
The Regional Boating Plans are being developed by the Maritime Management Centre (MMC) in Transport for NSW, working closely with Roads and Maritime Services (Roads and Maritime) and consultants with expertise in coastal infrastructure. The plans will be used to inform projects to be funded out of a new boating infrastructure partnership program. The new program will replace the successful Better Boating Program and will see more funding available for boating facilities across NSW with a stronger focus on delivering projects that will provide the greatest strategic benefit to each region.
The State’s major waterways have been grouped according to geography and waterway management to form eleven distinct regions as shown in Figure 1. A Regional Boating Plan will be developed for each of these regions.
Figure 1 – Map of regions
Each Regional Boating Plan is being developed through a two-stage process involving the development of a Consultation Draft and then a final plan for each region. This Consultation Draft has been informed by the feedback received through an initial consultation program
4 | Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 including engagement with local councils and boating stakeholder groups as well as an online survey process open to all waterway users.
The project team has also undertaken site visits of infrastructure in each region including on- water inspections with local Roads and Maritime Boating Safety Officers (BSOs).
Following release of this Consultation Draft, the project team will return to each region to discuss the key findings and proposed priority projects with councils. The project team will also seek further community views on the Consultation Draft through a public information session.
Public information sessions will be held at:
Forster - Wednesday 30 July Club Forster
19 Strand Street Forster NSW
6:00 – 7:00pm
Submissions on the Consultation Draft can be made via email to [email protected] by 10 August 2014.
Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 | 5 2. Physical character of the waterways
2.1 Background
This region predominately consists of two major waterways, The Manning River and Wallis Lake. Recreational boating is a popular past time in the region, with users undertaking a wide variety of boating activities. Due to constraints such as limited waterway availability, limited foreshore space and shelter from weather, users in this region tend to concentrate on particular areas in the waterways. Further details on waterway users are provided in Chapter 3.
The waterways are covered by three councils:
Greater Taree City Council (GTCC);
Great Lakes Council (GLC); and
Gloucester Shire Council (GSC).
Most councils have plans in place to manage their waterways and associated estuaries. The main objectives of these plans have been to manage and co-ordinate waterfront development, improve public accessibility and to protect the visual character and natural landscape of the waterways.
It should be noted the suburbs of Bulahdelah, Tea Gardens, Hawks Nest and Stroud are within the boundaries of the Great Lakes Council, however, fall into the Port Stephens-Hunter region.
The region incorporates the Port Stephens – Great Lakes Marine Park. Visitors and the local community enjoy a range of recreational and commercial activities in the marine parks. Popular recreational activities include swimming, surfing, fishing and diving. Commercial fishing vessels operating out of Forster also access the marine park. The Port Stephens – Great Lakes Marine Park, which covers an area of approximately 98,000 ha, encompasses the area between Cape Hawke Surf Life Saving Club near Forster south to Birubi Beach Life Saving Club at the northern end of Stockton Beach. However this is mostly within the Port Stephens – Hunter region. As such the section relevant to the Taree – Great Lakes region is from Sugarloaf Point at Seal Rocks north to the Cape Hawke Surf Life Saving Club. The marine park incorporates estuaries to their tidal limit, foreshores to the mean high water mark and extends offshore to the 3 nautical mile State waters boundary. The park’s diverse marine life includes many species of dolphins, turtles, fish, invertebrates, seabirds and seaweeds along with threatened species such as the Gould’s petrel, little tern, grey nurse shark and green turtle. The Port Stephens – Great Lakes Marine Park Zoning Plan protects the marine biodiversity of the area while supporting a wide range of recreational and commercial
6 | Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 activities. Many significant Indigenous cultural and spiritual sites are located within or adjacent to the marine park including middens, burial sites and traditional campsites. Aboriginal association with the sea and land in the area dates back thousands of years and Indigenous people still gather food in the traditional way.
The sections below outline the physical characteristics of the waterways where boating mainly occurs rather than the entire catchment and tributaries.
2.2 Manning catchment
The Manning catchment is on the NSW mid north coast and has a catchment of approximately 8,420 km2 in size. The Manning River begins in the Great Dividing Range and flows south-east for 250 km through a coastal floodplain to Taree. The southern arm of this river meets the Pacific Ocean at Old Bar, and the northern arm meets the ocean at Harrington. The entrance at Harington is open with only a single training wall on the northern shoreline, as such it is known to be unstable and more dynamic than other entrances with two training walls. Farquhar Inlet is untrained and has a history of periodic closure. The northern and southern arms split further creating a delta system and in turn, Mitchells and Oxley Islands. The river itself has an approximate estuary area of 35 km2 in size with an average depth of 3 m. The navigable distance of the river is approximately 50 km to the town of Wingham. The catchment is spread over two local government areas, Greater Taree City Council (GTCC) and Gloucester Shire Council (GSC).
Figure 2 – Manning catchment
Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 | 7 2.3 Wallis Lake
Wallis Lake has a number of tributaries including the Wallingat River, Wang Wauk River, Coolongolook River and Wallamba River. The estuary is approximately 99 km2 in size with an average depth of 2.3 m. The entrance of the system is open and trained and separates the towns of Forster and Tuncurry. The catchment is spread across the three local government areas of Great Lakes Council, Greater Taree City Council and Gloucester Shire Council.
Figure 3 – Wallis Lake and surrounds
8 | Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 2.4 Smiths Lake
Smiths Lake lies immediately to the south of Wallis Lake. The lake is approximately 10 km2 in size with an average depth of 2.4 m. The lake lies within the boundaries of the Great Lakes Council. It is mainly an undisturbed estuary and its southern shores lie within the Myall Lakes National Park. The lake is of a unique type known as an ‘intermittently closed or open lake or lagoon’ (ICOLL). The lake has three basins and there is evidence of sedimentation adjacent to the ocean entrance. The lake is mechanically opened at Sandbar Beach in accordance with an opening regime adopted by the Great Lakes Council. This occurs approximately every 18 months to assist in flushing of the lake and prevent the flooding of low lying properties.
Figure 4 – Smiths Lake and surrounds
Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 | 9 3. Waterway users
Recreational boating is a popular past-time in the Taree – Great Lakes regional waterways. These waterways are popular for recreational fishing, sailing, water skiing, wake boarding, rowing, kayaking, yacht racing and other regattas. The waterways also host numerous sporting events such as rowing throughout the year.
Manning Catchment The Manning River estuary is a very popular waterway for a diverse range of recreational boaters. These include power boating, recreational fishing, rowing, sailing and kayaking. The population and the usage of the region’s waterways swell during the summer months due to the 250,000 tourists that visit the Manning Valley each year. This places pressure on existing infrastructure and can detract from the boating experience whilst increasing safety risks.
There are a number of known conflicts that currently occur on the Manning River due to its popularity and limited space. This region has a large oyster industry occupying a significant portion of the estuary system. Power boating and the wake these vessels produce has an impact on the quality of oysters produced in the region. There is also conflict between power boaters and passive craft users. Passive recreation is very popular on the waters around Taree and Wingham, leading to competition for space between rowers, sailors and others passive users.
Wallis Lake The Wallis Lake estuary encompasses a broad waterway with multiple uses. The area incorporating the entrance and the waters around Wallis Island hosts the majority of the estuary system’s oyster leases. The area is also used for recreational fishing, swimming, paddling, power boating and jet skiing. Usage also increases significantly during peak periods as a result of tourism in the Forster area.
Wakeboarding activity is banned in all parts of the Wallamba River. Fishing and oyster production also take place on the Wallamba Broadwater. The Coolongolook, Wang Wauk and Wallingat Rivers are less utilised, however are typically used for fishing and waterskiing purposes.
Smiths Lake Smiths Lake is a relatively popular waterway with recreational uses including swimming, waterskiing, canoeing, kayaking, kite surfing, fishing and Personal Water Craft (PWC) use. The usage of the lake varies throughout the year; with peak numbers occurring in the summer
10 | Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 holiday periods. Locals have near-sole use of the lake outside the summer months and their usage is concentrated on weekends. Activity on the lake is also dictated by the entrance to the ocean as it influences the water levels. The area from Ski Cove extending east to Bull Island is the most intensively utilised section of Smiths Lake with windsurfers, sail craft, canoes, catamarans, powerboats and PWCs operating. Most power boats are used for towing purposes in the calm waters of Ski Cove.
3.1 Analysis of waterway users
3.1.1 Licence data analysis
In the 2011 census, there were 46,541 people living in the Greater Taree LGA. In addition, there were 34,430 and 4,877 people living in the Great Lakes and Gloucester LGAs respectively. The region generally experienced a population growth between 1.5-5%, between 2006 and 2011, which was below both the State and national average of 5.63% and 8.32% respectively.
There are approximately 15,000 boat licence holders in the Taree – Great Lakes region. This represents approximately 2.8% of all boating licences in NSW.
The majority of licence holders in the region carry a General Boat Licence. Approximately 6% are licenced to operate PWCs, a figure slightly less than the State average.
3.1.2 Registration data analysis
As of 12/03/2014 there were approximately 8,700 registered recreational vessels in the Taree – Great Lakes region. This represents approximately 3.7% of all registered recreational vessels in NSW. The most common vessel hull types in this region are open runabouts followed by punts and cabin Runabouts.
A significant majority (90%) of the registered vessels in this region are below 6 m and the average vessel length is 4.7 m. Vessels less than 6 m in length are defined as trailerable. This has a strong influence on the boating access and storage requirements in the region with a strong demand on boat ramps and trailer parking.
3.1.3 Other users
Whilst the data analysed above provides information on licence holders and vessels registered in the Taree - Great Lakes region, it does not capture vessels from other regions utilising these waterways. External users include boaters from nearby regions such as the Central Coast, Lake Macquarie and Sydney, which can add significantly to the local demand at certain times of the year. Roads and Maritime’s licence and registration data does not capture passive craft numbers such as kayaks, canoes, beach-launch sail craft which do not require registration. It is suggested that there may be several thousand such craft in the Taree – Great Lakes region, based on their estimated total number in NSW
3.1.4 Future demand
In 2010, the then NSW Maritime released a report titled NSW Boat Ownership and Storage Growth Forecasts to 2026. The report forecast a continuing growth trend in vessel ownership of 2.9% annually across NSW. The Report used a different regional profile to that being used for the Regional Boating Plan. It identified the North Coast region (which incorporates the Taree - Great Lakes Region) has experienced the most significant growth. Despite this growth (approximately 4% per annum
Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 | 11 across all boat sizes), the North Coast has the second smallest proportion of boats greater than 6 m in length which suggests that most growth is in the <6 m category (trailerable vessels).
3.2 Regional site visits
Regional site visits and consultation with key local stakeholders were an important part of the study process. This section summarises key findings and observations from these visits and consultation. Further details are provided in Chapters 4, 5 and 6.
Boating in this region is concentrated in the small harbours and river entrances at Forster- Tuncurry, on Wallis Lakes and on the rivers including the Manning, Wallamba, Coolongolook and Wallingat Rivers. The small harbour at Crowdy Head is also used as a base for commercial and recreational fishers due to the proximity of the boat ramp. The project team identified ageing infrastructure as a predominant issue in some areas. Bar crossings, the limited size of channels, and siltation affecting water depth were also observed as issues, particularly in the rivers in the Forster-Tuncurry area. The Manning River entrance, with a single training wall, has also been highlighted as a constraint to larger vessels entering the waterway. Owing to the unstable nature of the bar crossing at the Manning River entrance, local boaters tend to utilise the Crowdy Head boat ramp for safer ocean access.
The ports are popular with cruising vessels as well as charter boats such as whale and dolphin watching and fishing charters. There are also numerous hire and drive operators in Forster- Tuncurry, servicing the large tourist population during peak holiday periods. Across the region and particularly in Forster-Tuncurry, conflicts occasionally occur between different users in narrow channels, particularly during peak holiday periods and weekends. Examples of such conflicts include passive vessels such as paddle boats, in close proximity to charter vessels bases, boaters and caravan park visitors using boating access points. Education of visitors and the many first time boaters using hire and drive vessels were highlighted as issues. Problems caused by vessel wash were highlighted in a number of areas including parts of the Manning, both from the perspective of the safety of other waterway users and the concerns about wash contributing to riverbank erosion in some locations.
There is minimal on-water storage in the region and it is concentrated in Forster-Tuncurry at commercial sites. Similar to other northern regions, demand for storage for increasing numbers of paddle craft was highlighted as an issue during site visits and as feedback from stakeholders.
Site visits highlighted a number of boat ramps in ordinary condition or with poor access due to siltation, maintenance issues, a lack of amenities and/or limited parking availability. Additionally, the lack of pontoons or jetties and challenges in dealing with maintaining infrastructure in flood affected river systems were also highlighted as issues.
3.3 Consultation to date
Stakeholder consultation was undertaken in this region with the councils, Roads and Maritime’s Boating Safety Officers (BSOs) and other groups through facilitated workshops and meetings. Appendix A provides a comprehensive list of State-wide stakeholders consulted as part of this study. Table 1 outlines the groups consulted specifically for this region. Table 1 – External stakeholders consulted at a regional level
Agency / Group Represented
Boating Safety Officers responsible for the region
Greater Taree City Council (GTCC)
12 | Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 Agency / Group Represented
Great Lakes Council (GLC)
Gloucester Shire Council (GSC)
Individual and other representative stakeholders from sporting clubs, marinas and community organisations such as Friends of Browns Creek.
Stakeholders provided direct feedback both verbally and in writing in addition to responding to the online survey which was also open to the broader community. In total 54 survey responses were received. The outcomes of the survey should not be viewed as representative of all users of this waterway. A detailed profile of the survey respondents is available summarised below in Table 2. Table 2 – Profile of survey respondents
Number of 54 (Individuals 40, Government 14) respondents
Club/ Group Rep, Industry/ 13% commercial, 5%
Respondent Individual boater,
General Public, 6% 9% 63% Category Other, Government, 4%
20-29, 5%
Age Group 30- 39, 8% 40-49, 20% 50-59, 35% 60+, 32%
Less than 20, 0%
Personal Commercial Watercraft (PWC) licence, 0% Licence, 9%
General Licence, Licence type No licence, 18% 70%
General Young Young Adult PWC Adult Licence, 3% Licence, 0%
No, 2
Boat ownership Yes, 38
Personal Watercraft (PWC), 5%
Trailerable power Sailing dinghy, Canoe / kayak, Boat type boat, 44% 15% 23%
Power boat, 7% Yacht, 3% Other 3%
Less than 6 More than 6 Boat length metres, 78% metres, 22%
Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 | 13
Recreational, Boat Category 100% Commercial, 0%
Water sports, 20% Special events, 7%
Recreational
Boating Fishing, 31% Cruising, 24% Sailing, 12% 6% Other, Activities
Summer (October - March)
Winter (April - September)
Boating Frequency
Less Weekly Fortnightly Monthly frequently
14 | Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 4. Safety
Key findings
• Stakeholder consultation suggests high levels of satisfaction with current boating safety in the region. • Concerns with existing navigation aids were limited to a relatively low number of specific locations. A high level of concern was expressed regarding the placement of navigation aids at the two entrances to the Manning River near Old Bar and Harrington.
• Stakeholder consultation indicates safety issues associated with conflicting waterway user groups, especially between motorised craft, PWCs and swimmers.
• Waterway user behaviour is generally considered to be satisfactory with the exception of some high-usage areas such as Taree, Farquhar Inlet, Breckenridge Channel and Cape Hawke Harbour.
Actions a. Review strategies to improve user behaviour, particularly targeting areas of high activity. b. Review the placement of navigation aids, especially where shifting sand bars and channels are of concern and undertake ongoing review of existing aids in these areas.
4.1 Overview of existing safety activities
The MMC has led a campaign with Roads and Maritime to promote the wearing of lifejackets, especially in small vessels. The campaign is a response to the fact that 9 out of 10 people, who drown when boating, are not wearing a lifejacket.
The campaign has been the most comprehensive, targeted program on boating safety in NSW history. It included an extensive and targeted advertising campaign, an innovative mobile lifejacket promotional van which took the safety message to the boating public State-wide (including visits to the Taree-Great Lakes Region), a zero tolerance on-water compliance approach and a host of supporting activities. Roads and Maritime is responsible for the operational delivery of marine safety in NSW, including the operational aspects of the regulation of recreational and commercial boating activity throughout the State. The enforcement role is chiefly performed by BSOs who conduct regular on-water patrols and inspections throughout the Taree-Great Lakes waterways to
Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 | 15 provide boating safety education and ensure compliance with safety requirements (such as lifejackets), speed, wash, distance off, aquatic licences, commercial operations and mooring requirements. Roads and Maritime also operate a Mobile Safety Education and Compliance Team which is a team of specialist BSOs who can be deployed throughout NSW.
The BSOs work in close partnership with the local NSW Police Force (both general duties police and the local Marine Area Command), often conducting joint patrols, although police officers are solely responsible for conducting random breath testing on NSW navigable waters.
BSOs also work in partnership with officers of the Department of Primary Industries (Fisheries) and National Parks’ rangers in relation to matters of common interest.
In addition to State-wide regulatory requirements and boating safety campaigns, specific boating safety restrictions that apply in the Taree – Great Lakes region are shown on the map included in Appendix B and online at http://www.maritime.nsw.gov.au/publications/maps.html. These are summarised as follows:
• Speed restrictions such as: – 4 knot zones, specifically at: . Harrington and Manning River;
. Failford and Wallamba River;
. Smiths Lake;
. Wallis Lake (Breckenridge Channel, Forster Keys and Cape Hawke Boat Harbour); and
. Muddy Creek.
• “no wash” zones;
• personal watercraft prohibited areas;
• no anchoring submarine cables;
• shallow waters;
• bar crossings; and
• no towing zones.
Further controls exist in the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea which are observed in NSW and include, but are not limited to, the following: • The skipper (master of the vessel) is responsible for the safety of the vessel and all people on board;
• The skipper must always:
o keep to a safe speed for the conditions (eg., slower speeds at times of reduced visibility, rough water, congested waterway);
o keep a proper lookout;
o be prepared to take action to avoid a collision; and
o display appropriate navigation lights at night. In addition, there are also a number of general “distance off” restrictions which apply on all NSW waters – for example, vessels travelling at 10 knots or more must remain at least 60 m from people in the water and 30 m from structures, shorelines and other powered vessels. Where it is
16 | Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 not possible to maintain the specified distances, a “safe distance” should be maintained. This is the distance which will ensure that a vessel will not endanger or injure people or damage property, having regard to relevant factors such as prevailing weather conditions, visibility, speed and any obstructions.
4.2 Complaints
Analysis of the complaints received by Roads and Maritime during the 5 years leading up to 1 January 2014 reveals that the majority of complaints received relate to:
wash (35%); irregular riding of personal watercraft (20%); and
navigation and speeding (14%).
The most significant number of complaints received by the Maritime for the Taree - Great Lakes region related to the popular Wallis Lake area (approximately 50%). There were only limited complaints for other areas in the region.
4.3 Infringements
Between 2009 and 2013 the number of penalty notices issued within the Taree - Great Lakes region accounted for 3.5% (over 1,000) of all infringement notices issued throughout NSW. Of the penalties issued over the five year period, approximately 85% were the issued by Roads and Maritime, whilst the remainder were issued by NSW Police. In addition to these penalties, 758 formal warnings were also issued. The highly trafficked waters of Wallis Lake and its tributaries accounted for 62% of the region’s infringements.
As indicated in Figure 5 below, the infringements for which the most penalty notices were issued in the region were for:
failure to carry the correct safety equipment (12%);
failure to wear a lifejacket when required (12%); and
failure to carry the required licence (10%).
Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 | 17 Figure 5 – Infringement analysis
200 180 160 140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0 Number of Infringement Notices Issued Issued Notices Infringement of Number
Category of Infringement
4.4 Incidents
In the period between 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2013, there were 21 vessel incidents reported to Roads and Maritime in the region. Nine incidents occurred on Wallis Lake or in one of its tributaries, four occurred on the Manning River and another eight incidents occurred offshore. Eighteen of the incidents involved recreational vessels and three involved commercial vessels. There were no incidents involving an interaction between a recreational and a commercial vessel. This breakdown of incidents among vessel categories is broadly consistent with State-wide observations.
4.4.1 Incidents resulting in death or injury
Four fatal boating incidents have occurred in the region during this period. These all occurred in daylight hours between 6 am and 6 pm and involved open runabouts. There is no recurring theme when analysing the cause of fatality. Contributing factors included hazardous waters, excessive speed and fault of machinery.
There were also seven incidents that occurred which resulted in serious injury to the victim. A serious injury is classified as one requiring hospitalisation or outpatient treatment. These incidents resulted in eight injuries with no particular trend in causes. Causes of these incidents have been attributed to failure to keep a proper lookout and environmental factors such as tidal conditions, bar conditions and hazardous waters. Several incidents occurred during towing activities and others involved collision with a fixed objects. An additional five incidents resulted in minor injury to 11 persons, although the there were no common trends in the causes of these incidents. .
4.4.2 Types of vessels
The main type of vessel involved in incidents was open runabouts (74%). Several other hull types such as cabin runabouts, PWCs, fishing vessels, punts, and cat-power vessels were each involved in single incidents, Despite being a major source of complaints (section 4.2) across the regions, there were very few incidents involving PWCs.
18 | Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 4.4.3 Incident locations
While incidents occurred throughout the region there are a number of areas where there were significant concentrations of incidents. These areas are:
6 incidents on Wallis Lake.
3 incidents offshore between Diamond Head and Crowdy Head. 3 incidents on the Manning River between Manning Point and Taree.
4.4.4 Incident cause
Behavioural and environmental factors were identified as the primary cause of the majority of incidents. Eight incidents were the result of hazardous waters, weather, bar or tidal conditions. Two incidents were the result of a failure to keep a proper lookout and one incident was attributed to a lack of judgement. Material factors were the cause on only one occasion due to a machinery fault.
4.4.5 Incident type
The types of boating incidents in the Taree – Great Lakes region differed considerably from State-wide averages, partially due to the small sample size in this region. More than a quarter of incidents (six incidents) involved vessel capsize, which is double the State-wide average.
The next most common type of vessel incident observed in the region was grounding (3 incidents) and while there were a number of incidents which had serious consequences, no other incident type was registered on more than two occasions.
4.4.6 Incident operation
Vessel operation at the time of an incident provides some insight into the nature of incidents occurring. None of the incidents in this region occurred when vessels were moored, at anchor or berthed, while State-wide figures suggest a 20% contribution of incidents from stationary vessels. This may be a reason for the low incident count in the region and could be due to protected waters.
4.4.7 Time of day, month and year
Where the time of the incident is known, 19 occurred during daylight; 12 in the morning and 7 in the afternoon. Two incidents occurred at night, with both occurring after midnight. December and January had high proportions of incidents, corresponding to the heaviest periods of boating activity. Wednesday and Sunday were the most likely days for incidents to occur. In a majority of other regions, incidents were found to most likely occur on weekends.
4.4.8 Wind and weather
During consultations anecdotal evidence was provided suggesting that the river entrances can be subject to rapidly changing weather and tidal conditions, which can cause problems for boaters, particularly in small vessels. Of the incidents where the weather conditions are known, approximately 85% occurred on days with clear visibility and fine weather. However, approximately a third of the incidents occurred where water conditions were described as choppy, rough, very rough or in strong current.
Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 | 19 4.4.9 Bar crossings
There are a number of bar crossings in this region, including the Manning River entrance at Harrington and Forster Bar. Despite this, bar crossing incidents are relatively uncommon and were accountable for only one of the 22 incidents. Despite this success, the issue of bar crossings and management strategies will be investigated further in Chapter 8.
4.5 Consultation feedback
Survey respondents generally rated their satisfaction level with respect to safety positively, with 86% stating it to be acceptable or above. Figure 6 – Survey response – overall safety satisfaction
0%
4% 10% 10% Very satisfied Satisfied Acceptable Dissatisfied 33% 43% Very dissatisfied Not applicable
Respondents that rated the overall safety of the region as ‘dissatisfied’ or ‘very dissatisfied’ were typically concerned about navigation hazards such as siltation build up, unmarked fishing traps and unlit navigation aids. Overall the respondents’ results were tallied to identify the perceived importance of various safety issues. The resulting rankings are shown in Table 3. Table 3 – Perceived importance of safety issues – survey responses
Rank Issue
1 Hazards
2 Navigation aids
3 On-water behaviour
4 Vessels not observing correct distance
5 Speed
6 Emergency response
7 Wash
The majority of the respondents that ranked ‘hazards’ as their number one safety issue were concerned about the shifting sandbars and swallow waters.
4.6 Key findings
The consultation feedback suggests that boaters in the Taree-Great Lakes generally have a positive view about safety on the region’s waterways. Analysis of complaints, infringements and incidents data suggest that Roads and Maritime will need to continue to actively manage safety on the waterways through its compliance activities and education campaigns.
20 | Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 It is also clear that there are areas of dissatisfaction where action can be taken to improve the boating experience in the region. Improving the behaviour of waterway users was expressed as a concern across the different stakeholder groups. This issue, however, was less of a concern throughout the region relative to other regions in NSW. Waterway user behaviour was consistently raised as a concern in areas where there are conflicting uses of the waterway, particularly between swimmers and motorised crafts. During site visits, numerous examples were noted of navigation aids that required updating with respect to lighting, placement or condition. Specific locations where this was identified as an issue include the two entrances to the Manning River and along the Tuncurry channel through Cape Hawke Harbour. A number of stakeholder groups noted that continuing to review the placement of navigation aids at these locations was imperative to maintaining safety in the region due to the shifting nature of sand bars and channels. A location-based summary of the feedback received regarding boating safety in Taree-Great Lakes is provided in Chapter 8. All of these issues have been considered in the development of this Consultation Draft and it is anticipated that most will be addressed through the actions described below. Any localised issues not addressed by the proposed actions will be referred to local BSOs for review.
4.7 Actions a. Review strategies to improve user behaviour, particularly targeting areas of high activity. State -wide education campaigns are important in supporting improved behaviour in the region. Roads and Maritime will review its current approach to education and communication campaigns within the region to improve awareness of navigation rules and key safety measures among local boaters. Review of areas such as at Farquhar Park, Taree, Cape Hawke Harbour and Breckenridge Channel that see high levels of passive waterway usage or multi user group activities should be specifically considered for shared usage zones or designated waterway usage areas.
Beyond this, other actions on a local level such as reviewing the need for additional navigation aids, improving the visibility and clarity of signage at high usage areas will also assist in improving user behaviour. b. Review the placement of navigation aids, especially where shifting sand bars and channels are of concern and ensure an ongoing review of existing aids in these areas. Roads and Maritime will review and update its program for managing and replacing navigation aids. Particular areas include the vicinity of the two entrances to the Manning River, along the Tuncurry channel through Cape Hawke Harbour, through the Breckenridge Channel and at Pipers Bay.
Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 | 21 Figure 7 – Examples of locations with safety issues
Manning River Entrance at Harrington with sandbar High user area at Breckenridge Channel movements
22 | Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 5. Access
Key findings
• There are a relatively small number of waterway access points in the Taree-Great Lakes Region. Capacity is only of concern at regionally significant locations. Car and trailer parking capacity was of notable concern at these locations at peak times where demand is significantly increased during holiday periods.
• Sixty-one percent of online feedback indicated waterway access within the region was acceptable or more than satisfactory. Most of the dissatisfaction with waterway access related to the condition of access facilities with a number of respondents referring to boat ramps being slippery. • Ongoing management and future planning for the two entrances to the Manning River at Old Bar and Harrington is of great local importance.
• Strategic placement of additional courtesy moorings will enhance the overall boating experience.
Actions c. Work with councils to improve the condition and ongoing maintenance of existing boat ramps and other access facilities at key locations including courtesy moorings. d. Work with councils to increase boat ramp, pontoon and trailer parking capacity at key locations. e. Continue support for the Rescuing Our Waterways dredging program with reference to the Manning River Maintenance Dredging Strategy and Farquhar Entrance Opening Management Plan.
Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 | 23 5.1 Overview of existing access facilities
Relative to other regions in NSW, there are a small number of formal boating access points within the Taree - Great Lakes region. Vessel access to the region’s waterways is available through several avenues including marina berths, club or private landing facilities and boat ramps. Trailered vessels can be launched and retrieved at public boat ramps, some of which have public facilities available such as trailer parking, fish cleaning tables and toilets. Some public wharves and jetties are also located on the region’s waterways and provide alternate access to vessels that are on the water. Informal dinghy storage facilities are used to access moored vessels. Waterfront landowners can also gain direct access to the waterway through private landing facilities. There is also informal access for smaller vessels (such as canoes and kayaks) from a number of public reserves and beaches. Public wharves and jetties are also located on the region’s waterways and provide access to and from the water for recreational and commercial vessels.
During the site visits, some of the ramps visited were visually identified to be in below average condition, lacking amenities and access facilities. This is reinforced by stakeholder feedback as well as the existing literature that was reviewed, particularly the Manning Valley Boating Infrastructure Plan 2012 issued by Greater Taree City Council and the Recreation Boating Infrastructure Strategy 2012 issued by Great Lakes Council.
Boat ramps
There are currently approximately 26 boat ramps.
Location:
– 12 are located on the Manning River; – 10 are located in Wallis Lake and associated tributaries (including Wallamba River); – Two are located in Smiths Lake; – Two provide direct access to coastal waters; and Material:
– 19 are concrete ramps; and – Remainder are sand, gravel or earth. Ownership:
– 25 of the boat ramps are owned and maintained by local council (Greater Taree City Council, Great Lakes Council and Gloucester Shire Council).
Public jetties, wharves and pontoons
In addition to ramps there are approximately 38 public access points in the region including wharves, jetties, pontoons and landings.
Location:
– 17 in Manning River; – 15 in Wallis Lake; and – 6 (kayak/canoe launch facilities) upstream of Manning River in Barrington & Gloucester Rivers.
Courtesy moorings
There were no courtesy moorings were identified in the Taree – Great Lakes Region
24 | Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 Figure 8 – Example access facilities within the region
Boat Ramp at Andrews Reserve Boat Ramp at Cundletown
Gordon Smith Reserve Crowdy Head Harbour Boat Ramp and Pontoon
Forster Boat Ramp Access facility at Point Road
5.1.1 Better Boating Program grants
Through the Better Boating Program, Roads and Maritime has provided grants totalling over $1 million were provided for 31 projects in the Taree - Great Lakes region between 2005 and 2014. A selection of these can be seen in Figure 9 with all projects listed in Table 4 below. It is important to note that the total cost of the projects is not depicted in this table. For total cost of the projects refer to http://www.maritime.nsw.gov.au/mpd/success_projects.html. Table 4 – List of Grants provided to Taree – Great Lakes Region through the BBP projects
Recipient Project Final Grant Croki Progress Association Croki Boat Ramp Upgrade $27,838* Gloucester Shire Council Barrington Reserve Kayak Launch $10,000 Facility, Barrington (Barrington River) Gloucester Shire Council Gloucester District Park Kayak Launch, $22,000* Gloucester Gloucester Shire Council Kayak Access Improvements at Rocky $7,300 Crossing, Barrington River
Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 | 25 Recipient Project Final Grant Gloucester Shire Council Landers Crossing Kayak Launch, $15,000 Gloucester - Barrington River Gloucester Shire Council Old Bowman Farm Road Kayak Launch, $16,750 Gloucester (Barrington River) Gloucester Shire Council Relfs Rd Kayak Launch Gloucester, $20,000 Barrington River (Additional Funding) Gloucester Shire Council Relfs Road Kayak Launching Ramp, $15,000 Barrington River Great Lakes Council Forster Boat Harbour Public Pontoon $28,300 Great Lakes Council Forster Boat Harbour Public Sewage $18,864 Pumpout Upgrade Great Lakes Council Forster Harbour Boat Ramp Upgrade, $112,500* Forster Great Lakes Council Great Lakes Recreational Boating $22,000 Infrastructure Strategy
Great Lakes Council Little Street Boat Ramp Retaining Wall $13,700 Great Lakes Council Pacific Palms Boat Ramp Upgrade - $32,500* Wallis Lake Great Lakes Council Redevelopment of Elizabeth Parade $16,842 Boat Ramp and Car Park - Elizabeth Parade, Forster Keys Great Lakes Council River Road Boat Ramp Reconstruction, $17,500 Failford Greater Taree City Council Coopernook Foreshore Reserve $74,352 Pontoon, Manning River Greater Taree City Council Coopernook Reserve Boat Ramp $26,139 Carpark Upgrade Greater Taree City Council Croki Floating Pontoon $78,000 Greater Taree City Council Endeavour Place Boat Ramp Upgrade, $13,560* Taree - Manning River Greater Taree City Council Harrington Boat Ramp Extension - $13,510 Manning River Greater Taree City Council Maintenance Dredging at Crowdy Head $16,000 Boat Ramp Greater Taree City Council Manning Enhancement Program $117,090 (Pontoons at Taree CBD & Wingham Boat Ramp) Greater Taree City Council Manning River Waterway Infrastructure $14,000 Feasibility Plans: Three Locations Greater Taree City Council Manning Valley Boating Infrastructure $30,000 Plan Greater Taree City Council Pampoolah Jetty Upgrade - Manning $32,650 River Greater Taree City Council Queen Elizabeth Park Sewage Pump- $12,300* out Upgrade, Taree Greater Taree City Council Shoal Dredging, Manning Quays, Taree $8,410 Greater Taree City Council Taree Town Wharf (Manning Quays) $125,000 NSW Department Of Lands Lower Farquhar Inlet - Public Wharf, $25,000* Toilets & Vehicular Access Track Coomba Aquatic Club Inc Coomba Aquatic Gardens New Pontoon, $50,250 Wallis Lake TOTAL $1,032,355
* denotes Active projects as of 21/01/2014
26 | Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 Figure 9 – Completed BBP projects examples within the region
Forster Boat Harbour Pontoon Harrington Boat Ramp Upgrade
Little St Boat Ramp Upgrade Multi-use Boating Facility, Endeavour Place, Taree
5.2 Consultation feedback
Sixty percent of survey respondents rated their satisfaction level with access and infrastructure facilities as acceptable or higher whereas 39% were dissatisfied or very dissatisfied. Figure 10 – Survey response–overall satisfaction with access and infrastructure facilities
1%
7% 10% Very satisfied
24% Satisfied Acceptable 29% Dissatisfied Very dissatisfied Not applicable
29%
Respondents that rated the overall access of the region as ‘dissatisfied’ or ‘very dissatisfied’ were typically concerned about condition of infrastructure (particularly the slippery nature of ramps, which is also a safety issue), lack of pump out facilities and trailer parking. Overall the respondents’ results were tallied to identify the perceived importance of various access issues. The resulting rankings are shown in Table 5.
Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 | 27 Table 5 – Perceived importance of access and infrastructure issues – survey responses
Rank Issue
1 Condition
2 Safety
3 Trailer parking
4 Capacity
5 Car parking
6 General access
7 Amenity
8 Disability access
9 Accessibility to moorings
5.3 Key findings
There are a relatively small number of waterway access points in the Taree-Great Lakes Region, however, the population these facilities service is also comparatively low. Capacity constraints throughout the region were only identified to be of particular concern at strategic locations, such as Taree and Cape Hawke Harbour, where population density is high and/or tourism influx in holiday periods is significant. The consultation feedback suggests that at these regionally significant locations there is a lack of capacity to accommodate demand particularly at peak times and to keep pace with the expected growth in boat ownership over the next decade. Car and trailer parking capacity was of notable concern as well as temporary storage and safe waterway access through pontoon, fixed jetty facilities and capacity constraints on the number of lanes on boat ramps. The provision of additional courtesy moorings in the region will also enhance the overall boating experience and aid in relieving capacity requirements on jetty and pontoon facilities.
There are numerous other opportunities to enhance the boating experience in the region by upgrading and undertaking ongoing maintenance of existing facilities. Feedback from the online survey indicated that condition of existing access facilities was perceived to be the issue category of greatest concern. Much of this feedback was about boat ramps being slippery and requiring ongoing maintenance to ensure that the ramps are serviceable. In addition to this, more significant works at boat access facilities is required at specific locations to improve the surface or structural condition of boat ramps and other access facilities.
Ongoing management and future planning for the two entrances to the Manning River is of great local importance. The Manning River is unique to other major river systems in NSW boasting historical significance and two entrances at Old Bar and Harrington. The entrance at Farquhar Inlet is untrained and subject to closure at times. The Greater Taree City Council has an Entrance Opening Management Plan for this entrance that incorporates stakeholder and regional concerns for tourism. This plan also explores dredging requirements in the area. The primary entrance to the Manning River at Harrington is trained on the northern side of the river. The nature of the entrance channel and surroundings is managed through the Manning River Maintenance Dredging Strategy. Maintaining the health and accessibility of the river around these entrances is integral in maintaining boating in the region.
28 | Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 5.4 Actions c. Work with councils to improve the condition and ongoing maintenance of existing boat ramps and other access facilities at key locations including courtesy moorings. Since the Regional Boating Plans are being developed concurrently in 10 other regions across the State, a detailed analysis of each facility in the region was not undertaken as part of the development of this Consultation Draft. However, the consultation with councils and key stakeholders, the on-line surveys and site inspections at regionally significant waterways have identified key boating access issues and potential solutions by location. Details on these issues and potential solutions are described in Chapter 8.
Many of the boat ramps in the region have poor surface condition, have shallow access and are too short to provide appropriate service at low tides and/or require ongoing regular maintenance to ensure surfaces are not slippery or hazardous. Upgrades to specific existing ramps and access infrastructure are identified in Chapter 8. Upgrades may include resurfacing of ramps and surrounding areas, provision of pontoons and jetty systems and upgrading of the general ramp or jetty/pontoon condition. These upgrades should be considered along with other facilities including toilets, lighting, fish cleaning tables and sewage pump-out facilities. Looking into the future, the region will benefit from spreading the waterway use to assist in minimising user group conflict.
The MMC will hold further discussion with councils across the Taree-Great Lakes Region to assist in identifying a list of priority projects that will deliver the greatest improvement to the boating experience for the region. Other stakeholders and the general public are also encouraged to identify specific access improvement projects in the region to add to those outlined in Chapter 8.
In addition, options will be considered to provide new courtesy moorings at select locations in the region. As detailed in Chapter 8, feedback from BSOs and other stakeholders as well as during site investigations have identified a number of potential locations that would benefit from the installation of courtesy moorings. d. Work with councils to increase boat ramp, pontoon and trailer parking capacity at key locations and appropriate facilities. Further consultation with councils and suggestions raised through submissions on this Consultation Draft will be used to inform a list of strategic locations to be upgraded to meet capacity requirements to be included in the final version of the Regional Boating Plan. Upgrades to the strategic locations identified include capacity upgrades for boat ramps, jetties and/or pontoons, car and trailer parking. In addition, the region may benefit from signage installed to ensure trailer parking is not used by cars without trailers. Suggested projects raised through consultation are described in Chapter 8. . e. Continue support for the Rescuing Our Waterways dredging program with reference to the Manning River Maintenance Dredging Strategy and Farquhar Entrance Opening Management Plan. The Rescuing Our Waterways dredging program, which is administered by NSW Department of Trade and Investment (Crown Lands), provides funding to dredging projects to aid navigation in public waterways by recreational and commercial vessels. Under the second stage of this program, $1.5 million is available for dredging projects to be delivered in 2014/2015. Under this program applicants are required to contribute 50% of the total dredging costs. While applications under the second stage of this program have closed, continued support for this program beyond this stage will ensure priority dredging projects for the State continue to be delivered.
Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 | 29 Examples of issues identified during the regional site visits are shown in Figure 11. Figure 11 – Examples of access issues
Concrete grooves cut in boat ramp at Endeavour Place Inadequate Boating facilities at Bohnock Boat Ramp to improve surface (Better Boating Grant)
Proposed paddle craft launching area at Browns Creek
30 | Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 6. Storage
Key findings
• The growth in boat storage capacity across the region will need to keep pace with the forecast growth in vessel numbers.
• Increased popularity in the use of paddle craft and dinghies used for recreational boating has resulted in informal storage in popular areas of Forster-Tuncurry as well as Cundletown.
Actions f. Explore the need for dinghy and passive craft storage g. Work with councils and other partners to help deliver projects that support strategic growth in boat storage capacity in the region and improve harbour storage facilities
Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 | 31 6.1 Existing storage
6.1.1 Overview of existing storage types
Storage for vessels is generally provided on-land for smaller (< 6 m), e.g. trailerable power or sail, and on-water for larger vessels (> 6 m); however larger vessels can also be stored on-land, for example at dry-storage facilities, for vessels up to approximately 10 m. The main types of on-water storage in for the Taree - Great Lakes region are principally administered as follows:
Private moorings; Commercial moorings;
Commercial marina berths; and
Domestic berths, moorings and other associated storage. On-water storage at commercial marinas, yacht / sailing clubs, or boating facilities, is provided through berths (floating or fixed), moorings (swing, fore and aft or other) and where space permits on-land, through dry storage such as a hard-stand or dry-stack. Examples are shown below at Figure 12 and Figure 13.
The region has only a few yacht and sailing clubs and none with significant storage spaces. Figure 12 – Crowdy Head boat harbour (top row), private marinas on the Manning River and boatshed in Forster (bottom row)
Storage at private facilities can be adjacent to private property through domestic jetties, slipways, boatsheds, and berths or fore and aft moorings, or on private swing moorings. Private swing moorings usually also require access to the water with a tender, for example a dinghy and this vessel also requires its own form of storage on land. There is also a new private marina development as part of new residences on the Manning river as shown in Figure 12.
Vessels less than 6 metres are most often stored on private property on trailers and access the water via boat ramps.
32 | Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 Figure 13 – Examples of commercial vessel storage in Forster, and rowing club in Taree
Commercial vessel storage in Forster Manning Rowing Club
Hire & drive with storage in Forster Storage for oyster farming vessels
6.1.2 Overview of existing storage volume
There are approximately 600 vessels stored on-water or at related land facilities in the region. Of these, less than 130 are private moorings and less than ten are commercial mooring licences issued administered by Roads and Maritime. However, there are also a number of commercial and private licences administered by NSW Trade and Investment (Crown Lands).
The Taree-Great Lakes region has a number of rivers as well as small boat harbours at Crowdy Head and Forster – Tuncurry. There is significantly less on-water storage available in this region compared with other areas of the State and the region is home to approximately 3.7% of all registered recreational vessels in NSW. Registration data in Section 3.1.4, highlighted that 90% of the region’s vessels are below 6 m, and therefore most likely stored on trailers and private property. It is also possible that the physical characteristics of the region and lack of on-water storage influences the types of boats used in the area.
Commercial sites at Crowdy Head harbour, Forster-Tuncurry and Taree: Crowdy Head harbour – small harbour berths and fishing co-op and related boating facilities totalling <30;
Forster - small harbour berths (<30) and fishing co-op (<12) and related boating facilities; A few hire and drive business that store small vessels used for the hire and drive;
Forster Marina has a small number (<15) of berths;
Blue Peter Boatshed also offers storage for a small number (<12) of boats as well as shed storage for dinghies, and other small craft;
Tuncurry – small marina (16 berths) and related boating facilities and hire and drive operation;
Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 | 33 Forster-Tuncurry Caravan and Boat Storage offers dry storage for boats. Capacity varies with 34 individual spaces and a number of undercover and open storage areas; and
Tuncurry opposite Cape Hawke harbour – (<35) commercial berths and jetties /landings for use primarily by commercial charter vessels.
The region has a minimal number of commercial (<10) and private (<130) moorings, mainly at Forster-Tuncurry. The total number of commercial moorings includes those moorings attached to land-based facilities, such as at Forster - Tuncurry.
Private Moorings: Forster – Tuncurry (including Smith’s Lake) – >90; and Manning River (including Harrington) – <15.
There is only one application on a waiting list in the region as of April 2014.
Domestic jetties, piled moorings, private marina berths: Manning River – private marina berths (<25);
Tuncurry – numerous piled moorings on the foreshore at Point Rd; and
Infrequent domestic infrastructure along the rivers in the region.
Sailing and other club storage There are a small number of sailing clubs in the region, including Great Lakes Sailing Club, Taree Aquatic Club and Manning River Sailing Club. These clubs are land-based and use access points such as beaches, ramps or similar to launch their craft. Typical of coastal / riverine regions, vessels are small and stored on-land. Most small clubs offer members access to storage. Storage for these generally smaller vessels can be on-water or land-based, in an open hardstand area, or inside stacks in smaller sheds. Some of these vessels are not required to be registered and therefore do not appear on Roads and Maritime registrations statistics.
Manning Rowing Club in Taree also relies on land-based storage and accesses the river via the adjacent boat ramp and pontoons.
Dinghy and other small vessel storage Due to the minimal number of moorings currently in the region, dinghy storage is generally not formalised at the location of the moorings. Whilst dinghies are often launched from private property, in popular tourist areas such as Forster-Tuncurry, storage is an issue. As with other regions passive boating (paddle craft) use has resulted in demand for storage and access in popular tourist areas such as Forster – Tuncurry. Apart from storage at commercially operated hire sites, there is no formalised storage for these types of craft in the region and this is also discussed under Key Findings below.
34 | Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 6.2 Consultation feedback
Thirty three percent of survey respondents rated the adequacy of storage facilities as acceptable or higher and 40% as inadequate or very inadequate. Figure 14 – Survey response – overall satisfaction of storage facilities
4% 10% 27% Very adequate Adequate Acceptable 19% Inadequate Very inadequate
21% Not applicable 19%
Respondents that rated the overall storage of the region as ‘inadequate’ or ‘very inadequate’ were typically concerned about a lack of parking, no existing marina and dinghies on the foreshore. This most likely reflects the concerns of residents living near and adjacent to the waterways about the negative externalities that can be generated by poorly planned boat storage, such as a lack of dinghy storage and suitable parking. Overall the respondents’ results were tallied to identify the perceived importance of various storage issues. The resulting rankings are shown in Table 6. Table 6 – Perceived importance of storage issues – survey responses
Rank Issue
1 Lack of parking spaces
2 Physical accessibility
3 Amenity
4 Cost
5 Dinghy storage
6 Waiting list The lack of parking spaces is addressed through the key actions for access.
6.3 Key findings
Survey responses showed over 30% of respondents were satisfied with storage overall. Overall feedback from all stakeholders highlighted a small number of issues in relation to storage. These included:
the need for more on-water storage, for example a marina in Forster-Tuncurry and Taree;
improvements to ageing facilities in the region, storage and access for commercial vessels; and
Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 | 35 storage for smaller craft including dinghies and paddle craft.
As noted in Chapter 3, approximately 10% of vessels are >6 m. As outlined earlier, the remainder are predominantly trailer boats and this places higher demand on the need for access infrastructure whilst creating less demand for on-water storage methods. Given the limitations it is not possible to determine which proportion of these vessels are stored on-water or on land. As per Section 3.1.4, this region experienced one of the largest growths across NSW and the average size of recreational vessel across the State is forecast to increase.
Failing to plan for boat storage growth not only impacts on the experience of boaters in the region but also risks generating negative impacts for the community more broadly. Increased storage capacity will also be needed for paddle craft and other vessels which do not require registration and therefore do not appear in growth forecasts. However, anecdotal evidence suggests that the popularity of these craft is growing at a faster rate than registered vessels. Analysis from the consultation feedback and site visits has identified two key issues that would benefit from a more strategic approach to boat storage.
Storage for dinghies and other small craft Some stakeholders have indicated concern with dinghies stored on the foreshores and reserves of the Taree-Great Lakes region. These locations include Cundletown and Forster where storage for dinghies is used by passive crafts rather than tender purposes in the foreshore area. This was evident during the site visit by the project team. Stakeholders also highlighted the need to support the use, storage and access for these small craft. Specific boater groups would benefit from provision of storage and access to the waterway.
Storage for paddle craft including kayaks, canoes and SUPs, which are being used in increasing numbers in the region was also highlighted as an issue in Forster-Tuncurry area in particular.
Increasing storage capacity in the region and improving facilities in Forster-Tuncurry and Crowdy Head harbour Harbours along the NSW coast are seen as important layovers for cruising vessels as well as focal points for tourism and commercial activities including commercial and recreational fishing and charter vessels. Both Crowdy Head harbour and Forster-Tuncurry, similar to other river entrances, offer minimal storage at a small number of boating facilities and at the small boat harbours formerly used by the commercial fishing fleets.
Feedback from various stakeholders and observations, identified issues including the need for increasing and improving on-water storage and the need to support the local boating and general community. The lack of modern facilities was seen as an inhibitor to attracting vessels and more visitors to the region. In particular, berthing with appropriate access for charter vessels was also seen as an issue in Forster-Tuncurry and in Taree.
Previous studies undertaken by councils have reviewed the need for improving the Forster- Tuncurry harbour (Forster-Tuncurry Crown Harbour Project) including expansion of on-water storage. Greater Taree City Council is also working with stakeholders to identify opportunities for boating infrastructure on the Manning River.
6.4 Actions
f. Explore the need for dinghy and passive craft storage Strategic placement of dinghy storage racks and/or paddle craft storage will help improve access and foreshore amenity in areas such as Foster-Tuncurry where some dinghies are also commonly used for recreational boating. Other opportunities are detailed in Chapter 8.
36 | Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 g. Work with Councils and other partners to help deliver projects that support strategic growth in boat storage capacity in the region and improve harbour storage facilities in Forster-Tuncurry and in Crowdy Head MMC and Roads and Maritime will hold further discussion with councils and other groups to identify a list of potential boat storage projects that will deliver the greatest strategic benefit. Other stakeholders and the general public are also encouraged to identify specific projects that will improve boat storage in the region. Potential opportunities are identified in the analysis contained in Chapter 8. Figure 15 – Examples of storage issues identified during regional site visits
Limited access and storage for commercial vessels Dinghies used for recreation stored across the foreshore in Forster
Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 | 37 7. Other issues raised during consultation
7.1 Overall analysis of ‘other’ issues
The objective of the Regional Boating Plan is to enhance the boating experience in NSW by identifying the priority actions to be taken to improve boating safety, access and storage in each region. These actions will be used to inform funding to be provided under a new boating infrastructure partnership program and to help shape future maritime policy decisions.
In consulting with stakeholders and the general public on the development of the Regional Boating Plan a number of other issues were identified that do not fit neatly into the categories of safety, access or storage. Nonetheless, they incorporate suggestions on how to improve the boating experience and management of NSW’s waterways. A snapshot of other issues raised for the Taree - Great Lakes region is provided at Section 7.2 below. Many of these issues have been provided as feedback across a number of regions. Where relevant, these issues will be considered in the implementation of the actions identified in Chapters 4, 5 and 6. The other issues will also be raised with the relevant Government agency or council that has primary responsibility for the issue.
7.2 Snapshot of ‘other’ issues
Short descriptions of the other issues raised during consultations are listed below:
Planning for Taree-Great Lakes, in particular zoning may inhibit the delivery of the strategies and actions from this study.
The lengthy processing time of development approvals for on- water amenities with waterfront access was seen as unnecessary and an impediment to progress.
Conflicting views exist on the effect of boating on bank erosion.
Some boaters believe that there are too many “authorities” and there is a perceived need for more formal consultation processes between authorities and the recreational boating community.
Some boaters believe that the impacts on seagrass from boating are overstated whereas others are concerned.
Addressing the above issues is beyond the scope of project to be funded out of the new boating infrastructure partnership program; however it will be raised with the relevant Government agency or council that has primary responsibility for the issue.
38 | Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 | 39 8. Detailed opportunities to support Actions
Summar y of key actions
The waterways in the Taree-Great Lakes region are highly utilised and essential to public amenity, which importantly is of great economic value to the region. The current infrastructure is extensive but requires modernisation, expansion and future-proofing, which requires investment to enhance the experience of recreational boaters. As seen in Chapters 4, 5 and 6, the region will most benefit from the following: a. Review strategies to improve user behaviour, particularly targeting areas of high activity.
b. Review the placement of navigation aids, especially where shifting sand bars and channels are of concern and ensure an ongoing review of existing aids in these areas. c. Work with councils to improve the condition and ongoing maintenance of existing boat ramps and other access facilities at key locations including courtesy moorings.
d. Work with councils to increase boat ramp, pontoon and trailer parking capacity at key locations.
e. Continue support for the Rescuing Our Waterways dredging program with reference to the Manning River Maintenance Dredging Strategy and Farquhar Entrance Opening Management Plan.
f. Explore the need for dinghy and passive craft storage
40 | Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 g. Work with councils and other partners to help deliver projects that support strategic growth in boat storage capacity in the region and improve harbour storage facilities
Key findings and actions have been identified for Safety, Storage and Access as summarised at the start of Chapters 4, 5 and 6 respectively. As discussed, these were derived through comprehensive analysis of stakeholder consultation (including BSOs, councils, clubs and organisations, online survey respondents and other individuals), combined with the review of available data, literature and site visits. These key findings and actions, where appropriate, have been identified and supported by location specific opportunities as seen in Table 7.
Note: the potential solutions and opportunities seen in Table 7 are the final intended outcomes and are in no way definitive. It is the responsibility of the eventual proponent to undertake the relevant detailed feasibility reviews including planning consent requirements, design and cost estimates prior to undertaking the projects. The issues are not arranged in any order but are instead listed logically based on their locality. Table 7 - Location based key issues, potential solutions and opportunities
Issue Category Location Issues Summary Description of Issue Potential Solutions and Opportunities S St A
Council to liaise with DPI (Fiserhies) to provide fish cleaning tables Amenity No fish cleaning tables Crowdy Head Review need for lead lights into harbour Navigation aids No lead lights into harbour Supports actions B and C
Refer to Crown Lands' Sustainable Dredging Strategy and Rescuing our Waterways program Hazards Shallow and irregular channels near Manning River entrances Review opportunities to further train the Manning River entrance at Harrington General access Existing navigation aids do not comprehensively Roads and Maritime to review existing navigation aids at Harrington Harrington Navigation aids mark hazards and shallow water Supports actions B and E
Investigate opportunities to provide courtesy moorings at Harrington backwater Limited quantity and access to courtesy General access moorings Supports action C
Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 | 41 Issue Category Location Issues Summary Description of Issue Potential Solutions and Opportunities S St A
Boat ramp is narrow and difficult to access with Review upgrading Manning Point boat ramp (Manning Point Road) or relocation of limited opportunity for appropriate upgrading facility upstream Capacity Power lines restrict access to boat ramp Upgrade existing or review installation of new jetty at Manning Point boat ramp Safety (Manning Point Road) with pontoon extension Poorly maintained jetty with insufficient access to Condition Manning Point pontoon for temporary land access and safe Review opportunities to formalise and extend car park at Manning Point boat ramp waterway access (Manning Point Road) Trailer Parking Limited car/trailer parking Supports actions C and D
Provide courtesy moorings at Manning Point Limited quantity and access to courtesy General access moorings Supports action C Review regulating towing activities on the Lansdowne River Environmental degradation due to excessive and Condition improper use of waterway Supports action A Coopernook Upgrade Coopernook boat ramp (George Gibson Drive) Boat ramp surface needs maintenance and Condition upgrading Supports action C Review Croki boat ramp (Ferry Street) to upgrade and/or formalise to cater for future demand. Investigate providing more trailer parking spaces to cater for current Croki Trailer Parking Limited car/trailer parking local boat ramp users. Supports action D
Waterway users not acting in accordance with guidelines and safe practices Hazards TfNSW and Roads and Maritime to review current speed restrictions and signage in Environmental degradation due to excessive and the area and update current education, communication and compliance campaigns Wash improper use of waterway Farquhar Refer to Crown Lands' Sustainable Dredging Strategy and Rescuing our Waterways Vessels not observing There is a high level of multi-user activity program correct distance resulting in conflict and safety concerns between different waterway users Supports actions A and E Speed Shallow and irregular sand bars causing difficult navigation
42 | Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 Issue Category Location Issues Summary Description of Issue Potential Solutions and Opportunities S St A
Refer to council for maintenance of boat ramp and garbage facilities and services
Slippery boat ramp Review opportunities to install toilets at Bohnock boat ramp (Manning Point Road) Hazards No toilet facilities or garbage disposal facilities Review and install pontoon at Bohnock boat ramp (Manning Point Road) Condition Bohnock Insufficient access to pontoons for temporary Review opportunities to formalise and extend car park at Bohnock boat ramp Capacity land access, safe waterway access or (Manning Point Road) emergency response Trailer Parking Note: Better Boating Program has provided grant for initially design layout of Limited car/trailer parking Bohnock boat ramp improvements. Amenity Supports actions C and D Manning River Roads and Maritime to review navigation aids and add lights where appropriate between Croki and Navigation aids Existing navigation aids require review Taree Supports action B Upgrade lighting on Neville Weiley Bridge to ensure safe navigation at night Limited existing lighting on bridge making it Oxley Island Navigation aids unsafe for navigation at night Supports action B Review position of green navigation buoy upstream of Dumaresq Island Navigation aids Existing navigation aids require review Supports action B Roads and Maritime to review positioning of navigation aids Dumaresq Island Navigation aids Existing navigation aids require review Supports action B Upgrade lighting on the Pacific Highway Bridge to ensure safe navigation at night Limited existing lighting on bridge making it Navigation aids unsafe for navigation at night Supports action B TfNSW and Roads and Maritime to review and update current education, Environmental degradation due to excessive and communication and compliance campaigns Cundletown Condition improper use of waterway Supports action A
Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 | 43 Issue Category Location Issues Summary Description of Issue Potential Solutions and Opportunities S St A
Slippery boat ramp Refer to council for maintenance and enforcement of car and trailer parking restrictions Siltation has caused difficult access Hazards Review reinstating beach access at Cundletown boat ramp (Kendall Park, River Access to boat ramps does not meet demand Street West) Condition Limited access to beach areas for boaters Upgrade Cundletown boat ramp (Kendall Park, River Street West) to increase Capacity capacity Car and trailer parks being occupied by single Trailer Parking cars Upgrade and formalise car and trailer parking at Cundletown boat ramp (Kendall Park, River Street West) and provide signage for car and trailer parking spaces Amenity Limited and informal car and trailer parking at ramp Install toilets at Cundletown boat ramp (Kendall Park, River Street West)
No toilet facilities Supports actions C and D
TfNSW and Roads and Maritime to review and update current education, Environmental degradation due to excessive and communication and compliance campaigns Dawson River Condition improper use of waterway Supports action A
Review installation of passive craft launch area at Browns Creek (off Railway Street) Insufficient access to Browns Creek for passive Browns Creek General access craft Supports actions A and D
Access to boat ramps does not meet demand Upgrade Taree boat ramp (Endeavour Place) to incorporate specified lanes to increase ramp capacity. Slippery boat ramp Capacity Grooves cut in ramp surface in May 2014 to improve safety. Siltation near boat ramp has caused difficult Hazards access Refer to council for maintenance Taree Condition Boat ramp is too short for low water levels and Review extension of Taree boat ramp (Endeavour Place) and upgrading of the toe has drop off at toe Trailer Parking Review the extension and upgrade surface of the car park at Taree boat ramp Limited car/trailer parking (Endeavour Place) Amenity Car park surface is in poor condition Review and upgrade toilet facilities to cater for disabled access
No disabled access at toilet facilities Supports actions C and D
44 | Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 Issue Category Location Issues Summary Description of Issue Potential Solutions and Opportunities S St A
Review and upgrade retaining wall near Taree boat ramp (Endeavour Place) Condition Retaining wall is in poor condition Supports action C
Refer to council for ongoing maintenance o Aquatic Club boat ramp (Macquarie Hazards Slippery boat ramp Street) Condition Boat ramp is too steep and narrow and does not Review and upgrade Aquatic Club boat ramp (Macquarie Street) providing a gravel provide appropriate access for the launching of beach adjacent to ramp Emergency response emergency vessels Supports action C
Review previous informal parking area (off Macquarie Street), upgrade and Trailer Parking formalise for possible boat storage and temporary parking or investigate alternate Car and trailer parking does not meet demand area during peak times Storage availability Supports actions F and G
Vessels not observing TfNSW and Roads and Maritime to review and update current education, correct distance Waterway users not acting in accordance with communication and compliance campaigns guidelines and safe practices Speed Supports action A Review the development of a marina in Taree Storage availability Limited availability of marina berths Supports action G Provide toilet facilities at Queen Elizabeth Park (Manning Street) Amenity No toilet facilities Supports action C Refer to council for maintenance
Slippery boat ramp Review and upgrade Tinonee boat ramp (off Cotton Street) or consider relocation to Hazards Deans Creek (Tallships Reserve) Tinonee Access to boat ramps does not meet demand Condition Note: Previous Better Boating Program funding provided for initial design layout at Poorly maintained boat ramp Tinonee boat ramp
Supports action C and D
Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 | 45 Issue Category Location Issues Summary Description of Issue Potential Solutions and Opportunities S St A
Upgrade toilets at Andrews Reserve boat ramp (Edinburgh Drive) Amenity Poor condition of public facilities Upgrade and formalise car/trailer parking at Andrews Reserve boat ramp (Edinburgh Drive) Trailer Parking Limited car/trailer parking Supports actions C and D
Review area and re-grade gravel ramp at Manning Waters Estate (off Petken Drive) and parking surface. Ramp is located close to Andrew's Reserve, upgrading to a Boat ramp surface and surrounding surface Condition sealed surface is not warranted. needs maintenance Supports action C Taree West PWCs not observing correct distance to shore, TfNSW and Roads and Maritime to review and update current education, On-water behaviour boating infrastructure or other waterway users communication and compliance campaigns
Vessels not observing There is a high level of multi-user activity Review formalising a swimming area to separate user groups correct distance resulting in conflict and safety concerns between different waterway users Supports action A
TfNSW and Roads and Maritime to review and update current education, There is a high level of multi-user activity Vessels not observing communication and compliance campaigns resulting in conflict and safety concerns between correct distance different waterway users Roads and Maritime to review 20 knot speed limit for lower estuary Speed Vessels travelling at speed in congested area Supports action A
Provide courtesy moorings at Cape Hawke Harbour Limited quantity and access to courtesy General access moorings Cape Hawke Harbour Supports action C Provide alternate sewage pump-out facility at Tuncurry Poor access to sewage pumpout facility at Amenity Forster Supports action C Roads and Maritime to review positioning of navigation aids through Tuncurry Channel Navigation aids Existing navigation aids require review Supports action B
46 | Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 Issue Category Location Issues Summary Description of Issue Potential Solutions and Opportunities S St A
Review and upgrade Tuncurry boat ramp (Point Road) to include designated lanes Access to boat ramp does not meet demand Capacity Review and upgrade Tuncurry boat ramp (Point Road) surface Slippery boat ramp Hazards Refer to council for maintenance Boat ramp surface needs upgrading Condition Review and upgrade jetty and pontoon at Tuncurry boat ramp (Point Road) Poorly maintained jetty and pontoon Trailer Parking Formalise and extend car park at Tuncurry boat ramp (Point Road) Tuncurry Limited car/trailer parking Supports actions C and D
Review the development of a marina in Tuncurry (Point Road) Storage availability Limited availability of marina berths Supports action G Review and upgrade jetty (off Palm Street) Condition Poorly maintained jetty Supports action C Review possible locations for dry storage of trailered and non-trailered boats Storage availability No available sites for secure boat storage Supports actions F and G Four-lane boat ramp rebuilt in May 2014 from Better Boating Program grant. Boat ramp surface needs maintenance and upgrading Review jetty at Forster Boat Harbour to increase capacity. Additional pontoon is Forster Capacity planned. Insufficient infrastructure (jetties/pontoons) for Condition temporary land access, safe waterway access or Refer to council for enforcement of car park emergency response Trailer Parking Review potential locations for development of alternate facility in Forster to manage Car and trailer parks being occupied by single demand cars Supports actions C and D
TfNSW and Roads and Maritime to review and update current education, There is a high level of multi-user activity near communication and compliance campaigns On-water behaviour Miles Island resulting in conflict and safety concerns between different waterway users Supports action A Breckenridge Channel Access to boat ramp does not meet demand Review current boat ramp (Little Street) and review options to replace with a passive craft launch area Capacity Limited access to beach foreshore for passive craft users Supports actions A, D and F
Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 | 47 Issue Category Location Issues Summary Description of Issue Potential Solutions and Opportunities S St A
Refer to Crown Lands' Sustainable Dredging Strategy and Rescuing our Waterways Shallow and irregular channel near Miles Island program Hazards resulting in unsafe navigation and access issues Supports action E Insufficient infrastructure (jetties/pontoons) for Install pontoon at Nabiac boat ramp (Wharf Street) Nabiac Capacity temporary land access, safe waterway access or emergency response Supports action D Insufficient infrastructure (jetties/pontoons) for Review and replace Mimi Street jetty Coolongolook River Condition temporary land access, safe waterway access or emergency response Supports actions C and D Review and install sewage pump-out facility at Coomba Park No sewage pump-out facilities west of Tuncurry Amenity Bridge Supports action C Review and upgrade Coomba Park boat ramp (Coomba Road) to increase capacity and safety
Access to boat ramp does not meet demand Install pontoon extension beyond existing jetty at Coomba Park boat ramp (Coomba Capacity Road) Access jetty does not meet demand due to Coomba Park Condition shallow waters Note: New pontoon extension at Coomba Aquatic Club completed in mid 2013 with BBP grant.
Supports actions C and D Provide dinghy and passive craft storage facilities at Coomba Park boat ramp Inadequate facilities provided for dinghy and (Coomba Road) Dinghy Storage passive craft storage Supports action F
Restricted access at boat ramp Pacific Palms boat ramp (off The Lakes Way) upgrade completed May 2014. Condition Poorly maintained jetty Upgrade and formalise parking at Pacific Palms boat ramp (off Lakes Way) Pacific Palms Trailer Parking Limited car/trailer parking TfNSW to liaise with DPI and council to provide fish cleaning tables Amenity No fish cleaning tables Supports actions C and D
48 | Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 Issue Category Location Issues Summary Description of Issue Potential Solutions and Opportunities S St A
Review formalising informal boat ramps at Green Point Green Point Capacity Access to boat ramps does not meet demand Supports actions C and D Roads and Maritime to review navigation aids and add lights where appropriate Pipers Bay Navigation aids Existing navigation aids require review Supports action B
Refer to council for maintenance Hazards Slippery boat ramp Formalise existing parking area to maximise trailer parking capacity at Forster Keys Forster Keys boat ramp (Elizabeth Parade) and review opportunities for expansion Trailer parking Limited car/trailer parking Supports actions C and D
Insufficient infrastructure (jetties/pontoons) for Install pontoon at Brambles Reserve boat ramp (Tarbuck Bay, off The Lakes Way) Condition temporary land access, safe waterway access or emergency response Supports action D
Boat ramp needs maintenance and upgrading. Upgrade Debert Park boat ramp (Amaroo Drive) for passive craft and small vessel Previous reviews indicate there are launching. environmental constraints limiting access to the Condition lake from this boat ramp especially for medium Provide dinghy and passive craft storage facilities at Debert Park boat ramp or large vessels. Smiths Lake Dinghy Storage (Amaroo Drive) Inadequate facilities provided for dinghy and Supports actions A, D and F passive craft storage
Refer to Crown Lands' Sustainable Dredging Strategy and Rescuing our Waterways Shallow and irregular channels restricting access program General Access throughout Smiths Lake and between eastern and western basins Supports action E
Refer to Crown Lands' Sustainable Dredging Strategy and Rescuing our Waterways Siltation causing shallow and irregular areas in program Hazards lake Wallis Lake in general Supports action E Review and provide emergency moorings at strategic locations Emergency response Limited access to emergency moorings Supports action A
Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 | 49 Issue Category Location Issues Summary Description of Issue Potential Solutions and Opportunities S St A
Navigation hazards created by unmarked buoys Roads and Maritime to review the placement of nets and pots used for aquaculture Hazards and other infrastructure used for aquaculture purposes Supports action B Refer to Crown Lands' Sustainable Dredging Strategy and Rescuing our Waterways Manning River in Shallow and irregular channels near Manning program General access general River entrances Supports action E
50 | Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 9. References
1. Australian Bureau of Statistics (2011), 2011 Census QuickStats, Australian Bureau of Statistics, Canberra, viewed 18 February 2014,
5. NSW Department of Natural Resources, (2007), Estuaries in NSW, viewed 5 March 2014,
7. NSW Maritime, (2005), Smiths Lake Boating Plan of Management, NSW Maritime Authority.
8. NSW Office of Water, (2013), Basins and Catchments, NSW Department of Primary Industries, viewed 30 April 2014,
9. Office of Boating Safety and Maritime Affairs (OBSMA), (2012), Boating Safety Plan November 2012: Botany Bay | Georges River | Woronora River | Cooks River, NSW Government, Transport Maritime
10. Office of Boating Safety and Maritime Affairs (OBSMA), (2013), Sydney Harbour and its Tributaries – Draft Boating Safety Plan, NSW Government, Transport Maritime
11. Patterson Britton & Partners, (2009), Manning River Estuary Management Study, prepared for Greater Taree City Council, Issue No. 3 July 2009.
12. NSW Government, (2009), NSW Marine Parks, Marine Parks, viewed 19 June 2014, < http://www.mpa.nsw.gov.au/psglmp.html>
Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 Appendices
52 | Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 Appendix A – Details of Stakeholder Consultation
In addition to all relevant internal stakeholders, the following external stakeholders were involved in state-wide stakeholder consultations on the Regional Boating Plans. Some representative groups have a seat on a related advisory committee and may have been consulted through that process. Appendix A – Table 1 – External stakeholders consulted – State-wide level
Agency / Group Represented
Australian Jet Sports Boating Association
Australian Power Boat Association
Boat Owners Association NSW
Boating Industry Association NSW
Coastal Cruising Club of Australia
Commercial Vessel Advisory Group
Commercial Vessels Association NSW
Department of Planning and Environment
Department of Primary Industries (Fisheries)
Dragonboats NSW
Fishing Industry Advisory Group
Marina Association NSW
Marine Compliance Taskforce
Marine Estate Management Authority
Marine Rescue NSW
Marine Teachers Association of NSW
Maritime Advisory Council
Maritime Safety Training NSW
Ministerial Fisheries Advisory Council
National Parks and Wildlife Service
NSW Canoe
NSW Fishing Industry Training Committee
Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 | 53 Agency / Group Represented
NSW Police Force (Marine Area Command)
NSW Rowing Association
NSW Trade and Investment (Crown Lands)
NSW Trade and Investment (Fisheries)
NSW Water Ski Federation
NSW Wavesailing (as part of NSW Water Ski Federation)
Paddle NSW
Recreational Fishing Alliance of NSW
Recreational Vessel Advisory Group
Rowing NSW
Sailability NSW
Scuba Clubs Association of NSW
Surf Life Saving NSW
Yachting NSW
54 | Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122 Appendix B – Maps