Myall River blockage to be cleared by NSW Maritime

NSW Maritime is planning to address a significant blockage in the upper Myall River to restore the waterway's functionality. The area, located near Tea Gardens, has become nearly impassable for most vessels during low tide due to heavy siltation, with some sections measuring less than half a metre deep.

Local residents, fishers, and tourist operators have campaigned for action following reports of near-misses where boats struck the riverbed. Port Stephens MP Kate Washington recently inspected the site alongside representatives from NSW Maritime, the Maritime Infrastructure Delivery Office (MIDO), MidCoast Council, and the Myall River Action Group.

Regional Transport Minister Jenny Aitchison stated that NSW Maritime will meet with Ms. Washington and the local ferry operator to resolve the identified issues. While the inspection has taken place, a specific timeline and the exact nature of the remedial works have not yet been announced. Concerns have also been raised regarding the accuracy of existing channel markers, which critics argue do not properly reflect the river's actual depth.