Mallacoota's controversial Bastion Point boat ramp has once again caused disappointment with the ramp closed over the busy public holiday weekend.
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On Thursday, September 26, Gippsland Ports released a notice advising mariners to take precaution when using the boat ramp due to the compromised depth caused by shoaling.
"East Gippsland Shire has reported that shoaling has occurred in the approach channel to the Bastion Point boat ramp. The shoaling has encroached across the entire width of the approach channel and extends from the end of the break wall approximately 10 metres along the approach channel towards the boat ramp," the report stated.
Australian Community Media received unconfirmed reports of a boat becoming stuck in the sand when trying to access the ocean on Thursday morning.
"Despite the area being dredged two to three weeks ago, weather conditions created a sand bar outside the harbour entry in open water, making it difficult to launch and retrieve boats at low tide," East Gippsland Shire Council general manager of assets and environment Fiona Weigall said.
Council confirmed dredging the area was brought forward to make allowances for the busy holiday period and it was expected the boat ramp would remain open over the holiday period.
However, last Sunday the ramp remained closed and early morning boaters were unable to access the ocean.
Residents are also complaining, stating the ongoing dredging is using up rates money that could be used in other areas.
"Originally dredging was supposed to be a few times a year, but this is getting costly, not to mention our council workers' time being taken up attending to the constant issues," a resident complained.
Surfers on the other hand have taken advantage of the sand bank, which has created a few good waves. They could be seen taking to the water throughout the busy weekend.
Ms Weigall said further dredging work will be undertaken again later in this week, "when weather forecasts and swell suggest that the conditions will be favourable to get the dredge back on the water".
"The dredge can only operate in relatively calm waters. Council was pleased to be able to address the sand issue late last week and keep the boat ramp open."
At the time of printing the boat ramp remains closed.
