Member for Bega Andrew Constance said the dredging will signal the start of major works on the $44 million project that will see the Eden Breakwater Wharf extended by 110 metres.

“Over 30 weeks, Heron Construction Company will excavate over 170,000 cubic metres of sand and rock from the sea bed to allow larger vessels to berth at the Port of Eden,” Mr Constance said.

“I have made it quite clear that we are cracking on and getting this project moving and this is the next major step to what will be a fantastic investment into our region.

“At the completion of the project some of the world’s biggest cruise ships of up to 325 metres in length and capable of accommodating up to 3200 passengers will be able to berth directly alongside the wharf extension rather than anchor offshore.

“In the coming months, dredging equipment will be moved into place and once dredging starts, work will take place 24 hours a day seven days a week to ensure the entire project remains on track for completion in 2019,” Mr Constance said.

The start date for dredging is dependent on receipt of development consent. 

Minister for Lands and Forestry Paul Toole said it’s a significant project for the region that will boost tourism numbers and create jobs in the tourism, hospitality and stevedoring industries.

“NSW dominates the domestic cruise market, which is worth almost $3 billion a year and it’s fantastic that we’re able to support further growth of Eden as a cruise tourism destination,” Mr Toole said.

Eden residents are encouraged to stay in touch with the project through the project’s Community Liaison Group, which next meets on Wednesday 28 June. 

The Eden Breakwater Wharf Extension project is jointly funded by the NSW Government ($32 million), Australian Government ($10 million), and the Bega Valley Shire Council ($2 million).