Lake Cathie dredging program set to begin next week

Port Macquarie Hastings Council (PMHC) said that a significant milestone in the efforts to support and safeguard Lake Cathie and its surrounding environment will take place tomorrow, with the dredging vessel being lifted into the water and operations expected to start next week.  

The works are being undertaken to support Lighthouse Beach at Lake Cathie against the adverse impacts of coastal erosion.

PMHC and the contractors have needed to wait for the optimal lake conditions and water levels to align before initiating the operations. 

Mayor of Port Macquarie Hastings Council, Cr Peta Pinson, said: “Lake Cathie is a treasured recreational gem for our region. It’s wonderful to see this day finally arrive and seeing the machinery on the water will mark a significant moment.”

“The dredging is crucial not just for the health of the lake, but also for the community. Lake Cathie is dearly loved and the project holds immense significance for the residents, especially for those at Lighthouse Beach and along Illaroo Road,” she said.  

The dredge vessel will be lifted into the lake on Wednesday morning at the Jabiru Reserve Boat Ramp and navigated under Ocean Drive Bridge to the main lagoon.

Weather permitting, the dredging will kick off next week, with the operation expected to take six to eight weeks.