A significant step forward in resolving the sedimentation issues of Swansea Channel is underway. Lake Macquarie City Council has opened tenders for the design and supply of a dredge vessel and sand transfer system, aiming to deliver long-term solutions to enhance navigation and safety.
The Vision for a Permanent Dredging Solution
Lake Macquarie City Council is spearheading efforts to address sediment build-up in Swansea Channel. By implementing a permanent dredging system, the Council seeks to:
- Boost boating access and tourism around the lake’s shores.
- Ensure safer navigation for vessels using the channel.
- Minimize recurring dredging costs with a sustainable, long-term solution.
Expressions of Interest Lead to the Tender Process
Mayor Adam Shultz’s Statement on the Project
Lake Macquarie Mayor Adam Shultz expressed enthusiasm for the project’s potential.
“This initiative offers immense value to our city,” Mayor Shultz said. “It will encourage greater boating activity, open doors to more tourism opportunities, and significantly improve navigation safety in Swansea Channel.”
The Council has shortlisted several contractors following last year’s expressions of interest. These contractors are now invited to submit tenders for designing, supplying, and delivering:
- A state-of-the-art dredge vessel.
- An advanced sand transfer system.
How the Dredging and Sand Transfer System Will Work
Efficient Sand Removal
The planned dredge system will function as a massive vacuum, removing sand from problem areas in Swansea Channel. The extracted sand will be transported through a pipeline that surfaces east of Naru Point.
Overland Sand Transfer
From Naru Point, the sand will travel overland via a pipeline that dips beneath the Pacific Highway, ultimately reaching Nine Mile Beach.
System Capacity
The dredging system is designed to handle significant volumes of sand:
- Daily pumping capacity: 1,000 cubic meters.
- Standard dredging campaigns: 20,000 cubic meters removed over 4–6 weeks.
- Larger campaigns: Up to 120,000 cubic meters of sand can be relocated as needed.
Funding Secured for the Project
$10 Million in Government Support
The project has secured $10 million in funding from the Australian Government’s Priority Community Infrastructure Program. This funding will also finance an upgrade to the Blacksmiths boat ramp, further enhancing the region’s boating infrastructure.
Timeline for Completion
Key Project Milestones
Mayor Shultz outlined the expected timeline:
- Early 2025: Contract awarded to the selected supplier.
- Mid-2025: Final system designs completed.
- Mid-2027: Project completed and fully operational.
Once operational, the dredging and sand transfer system will be handed over to Transport for NSW for ongoing management and operation.
Benefits of the Swansea Channel Dredging Project
Improved Boating Access
The dredging project will restore consistent navigability for Swansea Channel, ensuring safer and more efficient passage for vessels.
Increased Tourism Opportunities
With enhanced boating access, the project is expected to attract more visitors, boosting the local economy and creating new tourism opportunities along the lake’s picturesque shores.
Sustainable Sediment Management
By establishing a permanent solution, the project reduces the need for frequent and costly maintenance dredging, ensuring long-term sustainability.
Conclusion
The Swansea Channel dredging project represents a significant investment in Lake Macquarie’s infrastructure and future. By improving navigation safety, promoting tourism, and establishing a sustainable dredging solution, this initiative will deliver lasting benefits to the region.