“The project will involve the removal of around 60,000 cubic metres of sand from The Entrance channel, which will then be used to nourish The Entrance North Beach,” Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Scot MacDonald, said.

The Entrance channel is the only opening to the ocean for the Tuggerah Lakes system which includes the Tuggerah, Budgewoi and Munmorah lakes.

The state government and Central Coast Council have each contributed $225,000 for the work.

Mr MacDonald said the dredging project was being funded under the state government’s Rescuing Our Waterways program.

“This funding will help improve the accessibility, health and safety of The Entrance, which is enjoyed by recreational and commercial users throughout the year,” he said.

“Central Coast Council will also contribute $225,000 to this important work.”

The former Wyong Shire Council has dredged The Entrance channel when needed since 1993.

Dredging the channel helps the tidal flow between the ocean and Tuggerah Lakes, the council said. 

Under the terms of its dredging licence with the EPA, council is permitted to extract up to 100,000 cubic metres of sand from the channel per year.

Minister for Lands and Forestry, Paul Toole, said more than $1 million had been allocated to councils across the state for essential dredging projects in the latest round of funding.

“The inlets, lakes, rivers and creeks along the coast are the lifeblood of many communities and the NSW Government is pleased to fund this work to improve waterway safety and access,” Mr Toole said.

“All coastal councils are eligible to apply for up to 50 per cent of the cost of dredging projects under the Rescuing Our Waterways program.

“Since 2014, more than $15 million has been invested in dredging projects across NSW to increase boating safety and navigation, and ensure the continued enjoyment of our coastal harbours and rivers.”

Applications for the next round of Rescuing Our Waterways funding open this month.

Rock groyne to control sand loss at The Entrance

Dredge returns as lake’s sand solution

Best push for second lakes channel