Sand build-up has been affecting access to the boat ramp and council is seeking community input into the options which include upgrading the ramp or building a new one at Sandy Point or on the Tuross Lake foreshore.

Mayor Lindsay Brown is inviting members of the community and ramp users to pop in and discuss the options with council staff and the project’s consultant, Royal Haskoning DHV.

“Council is serious about consulting with the community on this asset. We have received $15,000 from the NSW Roads and Maritime Services’ Better Boating Program and are contributing another $15,000 from council’s infrastructure fund to make sure we achieve the best outcome for ramp users,” Cr Brown said.

He says at this stage, Royal Haskoning DHV’s investigations have included a site inspection, bed level surveys, a review of historical aerial photography and initial discussions with government agencies. 

“On Friday, we will be showing the concept plans for each boat ramp option along with some preliminary cost estimates and a summary of the pros and cons of each proposal,” Cr Brown said.

To have your say, come to the boat ramp on Nelson Parade in Tuross Head on Friday 16 November between 12.30pm and 3pm. If it is raining, the event will be moved to Kyla Park Hall.

The Tuross progress association says “everyone who has a boat, ever fishes on a boat or financially benefits from the tourism dollars that come into this town from visitors who do fish” should attend.

John Suthern from the Tuross Boatshed has commented:

“Over the past few years much tension and controversy has occurred regarding the existing boat ramp located at the mouth of the Tuross estuary system and the construction of a new ramp at two possible locations within the estuary system.

“While this tension and controversy has continued and on many occasions been debated nothing has been done to help the current situation of the sand build up at the end of the ramp.

“Years have passed with constant complaints that boating people cannot launch or retrieve their boats. Experienced boaters have shown the less experienced on how to angle their boats at the end of the left hand side ramp to reach deeper water, arguments and aggression have continued as trailers have become stuck or boats damaged. This controversy is having a major negative impact on Tuross businesses and local tourism.

“Whilst I agree that the ramp is probably in the wrong position in the estuary I feel that a solution to the existing problem needs to be addressed as an interim solution whilst the study and consultation of a new ramp is undertaken (which may take years)

“This is a matter of urgency and one which reflects poorly on Eurobodalla council and Eurobodalla tourism!

“Whilst NOT on the agenda for discussion the Tuross residents DO want to talk about dredging of the boat ramp.”