A recent study on issues surrounding current boating safety, access, and boat storage in the area found that locals were more than satisfied with their safety on the water, and how they get in and out of it. Where they store their boats however, is another matter.  

The first draft of the Taree/Great Lakes Boating Plan was released this month, after consultation between the local boating communities and the three local councils who share the region’s waterways – Great Lakes Council, Greater Taree City Council, and Gloucester Shire Council. The project is part of a state-wide initiative implemented by the Maritime Management Centre within Transport for NSW, with Roads and Maritime Services and consultants with expertise in coastal infrastructure. As one of 11 boating plans for major waterways in NSW, the plan identifies the priority projects for funding over the coming years to keep waterways safe, accessible, and enjoyable. 

There are approximately 15,000 boat licence holders in the Taree and Great Lakes region, and 8,700 registered recreational vessels. The waterways are a large economic asset to the region, and are used in a diverse number of recreational and business ways.

Whilst the Maritime Management Centre’s consultation with local stakeholders reflected a high level of satisfaction with current boating safety in the area, areas of concern were linked to hazards from siltation build up, the subsequent placement of navigation aids, and on-water behaviour, particularly within areas of high activity. 

Similarly, online feedback indicated that most respondents were more than satisfied with access to the waterways, although the boat ramps themselves were too slippery and parking was inadequate particularly during high season.

Lastly, boat storage has emerged as the main topic of waterway dissatisfaction, with 70 per cent of those surveyed dissatisfied. As a region which experienced one of the largest growths in boat ownership across NSW in 2010, on-water storage has been identified as a key area requiring action. 

The draft Plan further details the spending of over $1million for waterways projects in the region between 2005 and 2014 through the Better Boating Program. This program will be replaced by the proposed final Regional Boating Plan at the year’s end.

Great Lakes residents are encouraged to respond to the Draft Boating Plan at a public information session at Club Forster on Wednesday July 30, between 6 and 7pm. Feedback can also be emailed to mmc@transport. nsw.gov.au until Sunday August 10.  For the full Draft Regional Boating Plan, go to www.transport.nsw. gov.au/mmc. The final plan is due for release by the end of the year.

Have your say on boating plan

THE Great Lakes region is invited to have its say on the draft Regional Boating Plan for the Taree/Great Lakes area, released this month. 

The public information session for the Taree and Great Lakes region will be held at Club Forster on Wednesday July 30, between 6 and 7pm. 

For those interested but unable to attend, feedback can be emailed through to mmc@transport.nsw.gov.au until Sunday August 10.

The draft regional boating plan is available at www.transport.nsw. gov.au/mmc. The final boating plan is due for release by the end of the year.