Boaties and locals can celebrate, the new and improved Tea Gardens jetty is expected to be ready for use by early September.
The project included widening and lengthening the existing boat ramp and the installation of a floating centre pontoon. The boat rigging area has also been extended to align with the new boat ramp width.
The project began with community consultation in 2021. MidCoast Council and community worked closely in the planning stages to ensure the design was modified to meet community needs. Almost $777,000 was secured for the project with Transport for NSW's Boating Now program providing $506,974 and the Federal Government's Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Fund providing $130,000. Council allocated $140,000 to the project to allow the design to be realised.
"We are pleased to deliver a project that accommodates as best as possible the requirements of the Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest boating community," said Amanda Hatton, Council's Manager Strategy and Projects.
"It was important that we heard from a range of users of the facility to inform the final design and had adequate funding to realise the upgrade for the community."
Federal Member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie said the improved and expanded jetty would provide additional capacity and better facilities for boaties.
"There are many local and visitors who utilise the jetty for boating and fishing, and this upgrade will make this popular facility even more user-friendly," Dr Gillespie said.
The contract to upgrade the Tea Gardens jetty and boat ramp at Apex Park was awarded to Hunter Wharf and Barge in January 2024.
The jetty, boat ramp and part of the carpark in Apex Park will be closed until the works are complete.
Alternate boat ramps, including the ramps on Marine Drive in Tea Gardens, and Moira Parade in Hawks Nest, are available for use.
