Central Coast Council maintained the NSW Government is responsible for dredging of the Box Head and Ettalong Channels, and that Council was willing to work with the NSW Government on a long term solution, at a round-table discussion on the issue today.

Council is yet to receive formal notification from the NSW Government on the outcome of applications for grant funding, which if granted would allow the Council to purchase and operate a dredge for 5 years for the State.

Mayor Jane Smith said Council recognised there was a need for dredging in order to maintain the Channels for navigation purposes and also emphasised it was essential to understand its legal position and cost implications to ensure the right decision was made.

“Councillors need to have all the information in order to make informed decisions for the long term management of the estuary and the allocation of ratepayer money,” Mayor Jane Smith said.

“That is why at our February 12 meeting the Council resolved to request a detailed briefing and report be given on current legal advice, dredging strategies, an understanding of how the estuaries function and cost implications of purchasing a dredge.

“The information that I have received to date confirms Council’s long held view that the dredging of the channels is a State government responsibility.

“The State Government also collects millions of dollars in fees from moorings, jetty rents and fishing and boat licenses in Brisbane Water and this revenue could and should be put back into maintaining the channels and the waterways to ensure these recreational activities can continue.

“In addition, it is worth noting that our neighbouring Lake Macquarie Council does not pay for dredging, rather the State government covers that cost.

“If Council must find the funding ourselves to dredge the channel, funding would need to be taken away from other priority projects our community have told us they want funded.

“We need the State Government to come to the table with a solid funding package for the Channel and we are happy to get on board.”

The round table today brought together key stakeholders including Parliamentary Secretary Scot MacDonald, Local Terrigal MP Adam Crouch, State Government Department representatives, the Peninsula Chamber of Commerce, Fantasea Cruising, Mayor Jane Smith and Senior Council staff.

Councillors will receive a briefing this week and a report is expected to the March 26 meeting to be held in Wyong.