Site Investigations for Eden Breakwater Kick Off

Site investigations for the $15 million Eden Breakwater Wharf Extension Project will begin today, Minister for Natural Resources, Lands and Water Kevin Humphries and Member for Bega Andrew Constance announced.

The long-term economic opportunities provided by this project will greatly benefit local businesses and the community,” Mr Humphries said.

Preliminary engineering studies have identified that geotechnical conditions within Snug Cove require further investigations.

“The work will include condition assessment of the existing Breakwater Wharf as well as geotechnical and environmental investigations for the Breakwater Wharf extension and the Safe Boating Options study.

“Crown Lands has engaged Australian Marine Associates as the principal contractor to undertake the geotechnical and environmental investigations and Haskoning Australia to carry out the condition assessment.”

Mr Constance said the work is proceeding through a funding agreement made possible between the Australian Government, NSW Government and Bega Valley Shire Council.

The geotechnical and environmental investigations will include use of a jack-up barge and a floating barge to obtain rock and sediment samples within Sung Cove,” Mr Constance said.

Geophysical surveys will also be carried out using a work boat with cables towed on the surface and along the sea bed.

“Local operator Svitzer Australasia will support the investigations by supplying vessel hire and marine crews.

“Assessment of the existing wharf structure will involve load testing by a 30 tonne excavator and commercial divers will inspect the sheet piles.”

The investigations are expected to last for a period of two to three weeks, weather permitting. On-site construction is scheduled to commence in mid-2015, subject to receipt of all relevant approvals.

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