Member for Myall Lakes, Tanya Thompson has called on the Minns Labor Government to implement a 10-year dredging strategy for Wallis Lake and the Manning River, similar to the plans the Government have put in place to dredge Swansea Channel in the Lake Macquarie region.
Mrs Thompson recently moved a motion in the NSW Parliament, once again stressing the importance of addressing the ongoing sand shoaling issues that have been affecting the Myall Lakes region.
“The Myall Lakes waterways play such an important role in the economic, environmental, and recreational aspects of our communities,” Mrs Thompson said.
“A 10-year dredging strategy for Wallis Lake and Manning River will ensure necessary dredging operations and ongoing maintenance.”
Mrs Thompson said that such a strategy would improve efficiency, reduce costs and allow for more consistent and frequent dredging activities.
“By implementing a long-term plan, the region would avoid the current delays caused by environmental approvals, studies and licensing issues, which have been significant roadblocks.”
“The economic impact of these delays has been profound,” continued Mrs Thompson.
“We’ve seen the closure of the Amaroo – a longstanding whale watching business, our local oyster industries are suffering due to sand build-up stifling production and Steber International, one of Australia’s leading boat manufacturers, faces operational challenges as they cannot safely exit the Manning River.”
“Our local businesses are suffering, I will continue to put pressure on the NSW Government to see a long-term dredging strategy introduced within the Myall Lakes,” Mrs Thompson concluded.
