The new wharf at Spencer on the Central Coast will open to boaters this weekend as part of a key wharf implementation project to increase safety and accessibility on the Hawkesbury River.

NSW Maritime Executive Director Mark Hutchings said the NSW Government’s Boating Now program provides $98million in grants to provide NSW boaters with better and safer access to NSW waterways with upgrades and new infrastructure such as boat ramps, jetties, pontoons, car parks and sewage pump-out facilities.

“This project demonstrates how the NSW Government and local council can work together to provide boating infrastructure for boaters accessing the popular Hawkesbury River,” Mr Hutchings said.

Central Coast Council Director Roads, Transport, Drainage and Waste, Boris Bolgoff said the $317,515 project was co-funded by the NSW Government and Central Coast Council and involved removal of the existing timber structure, building a new gangway, pilings, floating pontoon and solar lighting.

“The Central Coast community can look forward to enjoying this new facility with increased visibility and accessibility in a variety of tides and weather conditions well into the future,” Mr Bolgoff said.

“Spencer is located on the Hawkesbury River and this new wharf is already being utilised to assist in launching powered vessels and non-powered vessels such as kayaks by the local community.”

Central Coast Council Mayor Lisa Matthews said the new Spencer Wharf is delivering significant benefits for the local community.

“This fantastic new amenity is helping Spencer locals and visitors to enjoy our beautiful waterways,” Mayor Matthews said. 

“Central Coast Council is pleased to work with the NSW Government through the Boating Now program to deliver new services and infrastructure to our community.

“The new wharf at Spencer is a great example of what can be achieved in partnership with the NSW Government.”

Information on maritime infrastructure funding and other projects can be found at rms.nsw.gov.au/boatingnow