National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is alerting residents in the Eurobodalla region of a helicopter operation to be undertaken from Monday, 12 August until Friday, 16 August as a part of critical works to fix the jetty track on Barunguba Montague Island.
Following significant rain events in 2021 and 2022, the Barunguba Montague Island's jetty track suffered considerable damage. The concrete track was built in the 1800s and acts as the main access for visitors to the island via the jetty.
The rain events caused the track to deteriorate and erode, exposing steel in several sections, while other parts of the track have broken off and water has eroded the ground around the track.
Due to the remote nature of the track, all materials taken in, and removed from the site, will be done by helicopter and NPWS boat.
Residents around Narooma and surrounding areas may see the helicopter between 8 am and dusk.
NPWS regularly relies on helicopters to transport construction materials to tracks that are difficult to access due to the location and rugged terrain that makes vehicle access impossible.
The area will be closed to the public during the duration of the work, which has been planned to occur at the same time as the regular seasonal shutdown.
Works are funded by the NSW Government FY22 Flood Recovery Program.
Located 9 km off the coast of Narooma, Barunguba Montague Island is a culturally important location for the local Aboriginal community, as it served as a significant ceremonial area and a significant resource gathering place.
Attracting around 10,000 visitors per year, Barunguba Montague Island is a spectacular wildlife wonderland, which is the home to over 90 bird species as well as hundreds of seals.
