Posted on May 11, 2026
By Rod Thompson
A new round of maintenance dredging will begin this week to deliver a safer waterway at the Swansea Channel.
And, it marks the fourth stage of works, following the removal of tens of thousands of cubic metres of sand and sediment from the area.
The latest phase focuses on the Dog Leg section of the channel.
It’s understood about 10,000 cubic metres of material will be removed over the next two months.
“We’ve put in a huge amount of effort to get Swansea Channel to where it is today,” Swansea MP Yasmin Catley said.
“As we move closer to a $6 million permanent strategy, we’re doing what we need to do to keep it operational.
“For locals who rely on the channel, whether for work, recreation or just enjoying the lake, this is a major step forward.
“In the meantime, I’m asking everyone to take extra care and follow the safety advice throughout the project.”
Recreational and commercial craft are being asked to stay clear of the work area while the dredging vessel operates underwater and floating pipelines to transport sand to Elizabeth Island.
As the pipelines may not always be visible, boaties have been advised to exercise caution when navigating the region or use the alternative Airforce Channel while works are underway.
“This maintenance dredging program will support safe and reliable access to Swansea Channel as we await delivery of the new sand transfer system and dredge vessel,” Transport for NSW (TfNSW) director maritime infrastructure delivery office Hendrik Clasie said.
“So, as we undertake the work, we are asking all boaties to remain prudent with their decision-making.
“Or, alternatively, avoid the dredging vessel and work area altogether.”
The announcement comes as the state government continues working with the Commonwealth and Lake Macquarie City Council to deliver a new dredge and Sand Transfer System for Swansea Channel.
The venture includes establishing temporary work sites at Elizabeth Island, Rathmines boat ramp and Naru Point, installing environmental controls and a temporary work area on Elizabeth Island, pumping dredged sand to the island, and restoring all temporary work areas once dredging is complete.
