Transport for NSW · 1. Introduction . The NSW Government is seeking to improve the experience of...

Transport for NSW Regional Boating Plan Sydney Harbour Region Consultation Draft August 2014

Transport for NSW 18 Lee Street Chippendale NSW 2008 Postal address: PO Box K659 Haymarket NSW 1240 Internet: www.transport.nsw.gov.au Email: [email protected]

ISBN Register: 978 -1 -922030 -68 -9

© COPYRIGHT STATE OF NSW THROUGH THE DIRECTOR GENERAL OF TRANSPORT FOR NSW 2014

Extracts from this publication may be reproduced provided the source is fully acknowledged.

Report for Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan | i

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Table of contents 1. Introduction.....................................................................................................................................4

2. Physical character of the waterways..............................................................................................6

2.1 Background..........................................................................................................................6

2.2 Sydney Harbour ...................................................................................................................7

3. Waterway users .............................................................................................................................9

3.1 Analysis of existing user data ............................................................................................12

3.2 Regional site visits .............................................................................................................13

3.3 Consultation to date ...........................................................................................................14

4. Safety ...........................................................................................................................................17

4.1 Overview of existing safety activities .................................................................................18

4.2 Consultation feedback .......................................................................................................20

4.3 Key findings .......................................................................................................................20

4.4 Actions ...............................................................................................................................21

5. Access..........................................................................................................................................23

5.1 Overview of existing access facilities.................................................................................24


5.3 Key findings .......................................................................................................................29

5.4 Actions ...............................................................................................................................30

6. Storage.........................................................................................................................................34


6.2 Key findings .......................................................................................................................36

6.3 Actions ...............................................................................................................................37

7. Other issues raised during consultation.......................................................................................40

7.1 Overall analysis of ‘other’ issues .......................................................................................40

7.2 Snapshot of ‘other’ issues..................................................................................................40

8. Detailed opportunities to support actions.....................................................................................42

Summary of key actions...............................................................................................................42

9. References...................................................................................................................................60

Table index Table 1 External stakeholders consulted at a regional level...............................................................14

Table 2 Profile of survey respondents.................................................................................................15

Table 3 Perceived importance of safety issues survey responses ..................................................20

Table 4 List of grants provided to Sydney Harbour region through the BBP projects ........................25

Table 5 Perceived importance of access and infrastructure issues survey responses ...................29

Table 6 Perceived importance of storage issues survey responses................................................36

Table 7 Location based key issues, potential solutions and opportunities .........................................43

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Figure index Figure 1 Map of regions ........................................................................................................................4

Figure 2 Sydney Harbour ......................................................................................................................8

Figure 3 Survey response overall safety satisfaction.......................................................................20

Figure 4 Examples of safety issues ..................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.

Figure 5 Example access facilities within the region...........................................................................25

Figure 6 Completed BBP projects examples within the region ...........................................................28

Figure 7 Survey response overall satisfaction with access and infrastructure facilities...................29

Figure 9 Examples of access issues/opportunities .............................................................................32

Figure 10 Examples of existing types of on water storage .................................................................35

Figure 12 Survey response overall satisfaction of storage facilities ................................................36

Figure 13 Examples of existing boat storage issues...........................................................................38

Appendices Appendix A – Details of Stakeholder Consultation

Appendix B – Maps

Report for Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan | iii

1. Introduction

The NSW Government is seeking to improve the experience of recreational boating across NSW through the development of Regional Boating Plans. These plans will identify the priority projects and actions over the coming years in order to keep our waterways safe, improve accessibility and enhance the overall boating experience.

The Regional Boating Plans are being developed by the Maritime Management Centre (MMC) in Transport for NSW, working closely with Roads and Maritime Services (Roads and Maritime) and consultants with expertise in coastal infrastructure. The plans will be used to inform projects to be funded out of a new boating infrastructure partnership program. The new program will replace the successful Better Boating Program and will see more funding available for boating facilities across NSW with a stronger focus on delivering projects that will provide the greatest strategic benefit to each region.

The State’s major waterways have been grouped according to geography and waterway management to form eleven distinct regions as shown in Figure 1. A Regional Boating Plan will be developed for each of these regions.

Figure 1 – Map of regions

Each Regional Boating Plan is being developed through a two-stage process involving the development of a Consultation Draft and then a final plan for each region. This Consultation Draft has been informed by the feedback received through an initial consultation program

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including engagement with local Councils and boating stakeholder groups as well as an online survey process open to all waterway users.

The project team has also undertaken site visits of infrastructure in each region including on-water inspections with local Roads and Maritime Boating Safety Officers (BSOs).

Following release of this Consultation Draft, the project team will return to each region to discuss the key findings and proposed priority projects with Councils. The project team will also seek further community views on the Consultation Draft through a public information session.

Submissions on the Consultation Draft can be made via email to [email protected] by 7 September 2014

Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan | 5

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2. Physical character of the waterways

2.1 Background

This region covers Sydney Harbour and its tributaries which is an extremely popular waterway for a wide range of recreational boating activities in addition to many passive boating activities such as rowing, kayaking, cannoning and dragon boat racing. Sydney Harbour also supports various commercial vessel operations such as commercial fishing vessels, an extensive charter vessel fleet, ferries, commercial shipping and naval operations. Further details on waterway users are provided in Chapter 3.

Sydney Harbour has a large presence of commuter ferries that provides an extensive network of services between numerous commuter wharves around the Harbour. The Sydney Ferries fleet (operated by Harbour City Ferries) consists of 28 vessels which travel around 1.3 million kilometres per year. In 2011-12, 173,329 ferry services were scheduled, carrying 14.7 million passengers. Circular Quay is the hub of the network, providing access to 37 other wharves ranging from Manly at the northern end of Sydney Harbour, through to Eastern and Lower North Shore suburbs, suburbs adjacent to the Parramatta River, the Balmain peninsula and Darling Harbour.

The waterway is covered predominately by 13 councils:

Auburn City Council (ACC);

City of Canada Bay Council (CCBC);

The City of Ryde Council (CRC);

Council of the City of Sydney (CCS);

Lane Cove Municipal Council (LCMC);

Leichhardt Municipal Council (LMC);

Manly Council (MC);

Mosman Municipal Council (MMC);

North Sydney Council (NSC);

Parramatta City Council (PCC);

The Council of the Municipality of Hunters Hill (CMHH);

Willoughby City Council (WCC); and


Woollahra Municipal Council (WMC).

Most councils have plans in place to manage their waterways and associated infrastructure. The main objectives of these plans have been to manage and co-ordinate waterfront development, improve public accessibility and to protect the visual character and natural landscape of the waterways.

The sections below outline the physical characteristics of the waterways where boating mainly occurs rather than the entire catchment and tributaries.

2.2 Sydney Harbour

Sydney Harbour is a natural harbour which is further broken up into North Harbour, Middle Harbour, and the Parramatta and Lane Cove Rivers which form Port Jackson (see Figure 2). It is a large drowned river valley estuary and the system has a foreshore perimeter of 310 km and is approximately 30 km2 in size.

There are 11 islands scattered throughout the Harbour. Of the 11, only Fort Denison, Shark, Clark, Rodd, Goat, Cockatoo, Snapper and Spectacle Islands remain as true islands. Cockatoo Island is the largest of these and is regularly serviced by Sydney Ferries. In addition to the waters in the vicinity of Clark and Shark Islands, the waters in the vicinity of Spectacle and Snapper Islands are designated naval waters in which anchoring restrictions apply. Several of the islands form part of Sydney Harbour National Park and are readily accessible to the public, including ferry and taxi passengers.

Outer Harbour

Outer Harbour is a wide waterway between the entrance to the Heads, the Opera House and Admiralty House. This area is open and has relatively deep waters which are exposed to most swells.

North Harbour

North Harbour also borders the Outer Harbour area. This is typically the area between Cannae Point and Dobroyd Head extending a short distance to Manly.

Middle Harbour

Middle Harbour borders the Outer Harbour. It begins at a line connecting Middle Head and Grotto Head, and extends north beyond the Roseville Bridge to its tidal limit which is near “Bungaroo” in the Garigal National Park.

Parramatta and Lane Cove Rivers

The Parramatta River begins at the weir near the ferry wharf at Parramatta and flows in an easterly direction through Homebush, Gladesville, Drummoyne and on to Yurulbin Point at Balmain and Manns Point at Greenwich. Vessel access is limited to only Rivercats operated by Harbour City Ferries and certain work vessels west of the Silverwater Bridge.

The Lane Cove River borders the Parramatta River. It forms in between Clarkes Point and Greenwich Point, and extends in a north westerly direction to a weir approximately 200 m upstream of the Fullers Bridge. This river is a relatively narrow and shallow waterway.

Inner Harbour

Inner Harbour is comprised of the high traffic area between Outer Harbour and Parramatta River. It encompasses the Opera House (including Sydney Cove and Darling Harbour), White Bay, Blackwattle Bay, Johnstons Bay and Rozelle Bay.


The foreshores of the main harbour and the Parramatta River are mostly urbanised and developed while much of the foreshores in Middle Harbour, North Harbour and the Lane Cove River retain a more natural state. Facilities related to foreshore access and leisure activities are common in most parts of the estuary and include a large number of private and commercial structures such as wharves, jetties and boatsheds.

Figure 2 – Sydney Harbour


3. Waterway users

Sydney Harbour is one of the world’s busiest waterways, on which cargo, commuter ferries, tourist, and leisure craft share what is considered to be an increasingly congested space. Sydney Harbour also has a large commercial vessel fleet, with 20% of the State’s commercial vessels based here. Commercial activities include charter vessels, work boats and barges, adventure vessels, water taxis, passenger ferries, and sea-going commercial ships.

Recreational boating is extremely popular in Sydney Harbour. The waterway hosts a diverse range of recreational activities including fishing, water skiing, wake boarding, pleasure cruising, sailing, yachting, rowing, dragon boat racing, canoeing and kayaking. Kitesurfers are not allowed on the Harbour mainly because of safety concerns related to their visibility, in such a high traffic environment, when the kite is down and the sailor is in the water. Additionally, the entire estuary is within the Sydney Basin personal watercraft restriction zone whereby all personal watercraft activity is prohibited.

The Harbour is particularly popular with the sailing community and there is a wide variety of vessels involved, including keel boats, dinghies (e.g. Lasers) skiffs and sailboards. In addition to the large amount of informal recreational sailing on the Harbour, organised sailing events/races are conducted every week on the Harbour under Aquatic Licences issued by Roads and Maritime. The race courses are laid out to achieve a good competitive outcome given prevailing wind conditions at race time.

The Royal Australian Navy’s Fleet Base East is located at Garden Island which is the homeport for twelve of the Navy’s most significant vessels. The establishment serves as maintenance facility for these vessels and incorporates the Caption Cook Graving Dock. Other naval facilities in Sydney Harbour also include HMAS Watson, HMAS Penguin and HMAS Waterhen. Vessel exclusion zones apply at a number of these locations.

Sydney Harbour is a working port serving the cruise shipping industry at the Overseas Passenger Terminal at Circular Quay and at White Bay, the dry bulk trade at Glebe Island and petroleum products at Shell’s Gore Cove facility. Vessel exclusions zone also apply at these locations and around commercial ships.

Outer Harbour

The Outer Harbour is mainly used for the following activities:

Sailing and yachting;

Leisure boating;

Passive craft use such as kayaking in the sheltered bays;


Recreational fishing typically in the sheltered bays;

On water storage in large mooring fields such as Rushcutters Bay, Double Bay, RoseBay, Vaucluse Bay, Parsley Bay, Watsons Bay, Mosman Bay and Sirius Cove;

Swimming and diving in the Camp Cove area and in Chowder Bay; and

Major events such as New Year’s Eve, Australia Day and the start of the annual Sydneyto Hobart yacht race.

In addition to the above recreational activities, the Outer Harbour also accommodates a number of commercial activities. Large commercial traffic, including ocean liners and naval vessels, enter the Harbour through the Heads and then make their way through either the eastern or western shipping channels to berths at Sydney Cove, Darling Harbour, White Bay or Garden Island. Smaller commercial vessels including ferries, water taxis, charter and adventure vessels also utilise this area. The bays of the southern and northern foreshores host a number of marinas, motor yacht clubs and boating clubs. In addition, there is a seaplane base in Rose Bay which is in close proximity to the commuter ferry wharf.

North Harbour

North Harbour comprises of the area around Manly and is a busy part of the Harbour for the following activities:

Recreational fishing, especially around Cannae Point. Vessels are often launched fromthe boat ramp in Little Manly Cove;

Swimming and snorkelling especially in Little Manly Cove and Spring Cove;

Non-powered craft use in the protected waters of Little Manly Cove, Spring Cove andFairlight; and

On water storage in mooring fields such as Fairlight.

Commercial activity is also present in North Harbour, including the main Manly Ferry service to Circular Quay provided by Harbour City Ferries. Also present are parasailing and hire and drive businesses, two yacht clubs and a Marina in Fairlight.

Middle Harbour

Middle Harbour is mainly used for the following activities:

Swimming in Hunters Bay, Chinamans Beach and Clontarf;

Rowing between Pearl Bay and the Roseville Bridge;

Water skiing and wakeboarding upstream of the Spit Bridge;

Sailing typically between Hunters Bay and The Spit;

General cruising;

Kayaking and canoeing throughout the waterway, especially in the vicinity of the RosevilleBridge; and

On water storage in large mooring fields in Pearl Bay, Quakers Hat Bay, Willoughby Bayand Sailors Bay.

Middle harbour is also host to various commercial activities. Many marinas and clubs, several hire and drive operations and the Marine Rescue NSW base are located around the deep waters at Clontarf and The Spit. Long Bay and Sailors Bay, west of the Spit Bridge, also have a number of marinas, boatsheds and clubs.


Parramatta River

The Parramatta River is mainly used for the following activities:

Rowing in relatively shallow bays such as Homebush Bay, Hen and Chicken Bay and IronCove. A number of rowing clubs are located in these bays and the northern foreshore;

Other non-powered craft use including sailing, dragon boating and kayaking;

General cruising by small and large vessels. There is a history of on water conflictbetween motorised vessels and non-powered craft which has resulted in the people innon-powered moving to more protected bays; and

On water storage in large mooring fields such as Five Dock Bay, Morrison Bay, GladesBay and Abbotsford Bay.

Commercial activity is also present on the Parramatta River including commercial and private marinas. Regular ferry services operate from commuter wharves along the River.

Lane Cove River

The Lane Cove River is a relatively natural, narrow and shallow tributary of the Parramatta River. Given these characteristics and the surrounding Lane Cove National Park, non-powered recreational activities tend to dominate. However, there is some cruising and fishing undertaken by motor vessels. Rowing, sailing and paddling are particularly popular with a number of club and school facilities located along the river. The shallow Woodford Bay is a large bay which accommodates a large number of moorings.

The area between the mouth of the Lane Cove River and the Harbour Bridge is mainly utilised by the navy (HMAS Waterhen facility at Waverton) and a number of commercial marinas.

Inner Harbour

Inner Harbour is a particularly popular and congested part of the waterway. Recreational activities include:

Pleasure craft and cruising around iconic landmarks of Sydney including the OperaHouse and the Harbour Bridge;

Limited power boating in the vicinity of the Harbour Bridge, Sydney Cove and the OperaHouse due to the designated 15 knot zone;

Dragon boating in Blackwattle Bay; and

Cruising during major events such as the New Year’s Eve fireworks display and theannual Australia Day celebrations held on 26th of January.

In addition to these recreational activities, the Inner Sydney Harbour also accommodates a number of commercial activities. Circular Quay and King Street Wharf at Darling Harbour are the major ferry hubs; Circular Quay has vessel access restrictions. A number of private ferries, water taxis, commercial adventure vessel operations, cruise ships and other commercial vessels using a variety of landing and berthing facilities.

The Overseas Passenger Terminal serves the cruise ship industry, particularly for large international cruise ships that are unable to fit under the Harbour Bridge. The Port Authority of NSW (formerly Sydney Ports Corporation in Sydney Harbour) is responsible for managing navigation, security and safety needs of seagoing commercial shipping and the protection of the port’s infrastructure and environment.


3.1 Analysis of existing user data

3.1.1 Licence data analysis

There are approximately 52,000 boat licence holders in the Sydney Harbour Region. This represents approximately 9.6% of all boat licence holders in NSW.

The majority of licence holders in the region carry a General Boat Licence. Although there is a PWC ban across the region, there are approximately 13% of holders licensed to operate PWCs. This contribution from PWCs is slightly greater than the State average.

The 2011 census (between 2006 and 2011) of the LGAs that surround Sydney Harbour has revealed the Sydney Catchment (the 13 LGAs listed in Section 0) had a collective population of 934,828 and experienced a population growth of 8.7%.

The population growth of Sydney Catchment is above both the national average growth of 8.32% and the NSW average of 5.63%. Significant areas of growth were Auburn, Canada Bay and Parramatta which are all on the banks of the Parramatta River.

3.1.2 Registration data analysis

There are currently approximately 20,000 registered recreational vessels in the Sydney Harbour region. This represents approximately 8% of all registered vessels in NSW. This figure is less than the proportion of State-wide registrations in the region. It is important to note that there are smaller boats that may not require registration to use the waterways. A considerable proportion (approximately 60%) of vessels are between 2 and 6 m in length which are defined as trailerable. This has a strong influence on the boating access and storage requirements in the region, with a strong demand for other boat ramps and trailer parking. The average vessel length in the region is 6.6m and 14% of all vessels in the region are greater than 10 m which also places a strong demand for on-water storage.

Open runabouts dominate, accounting for 44% of all registered vessels. Yachts, cabin runabouts and motor cruisers are popular in this region, each comprising of more than 10% of all vessels. Inflatables, PWCs, punts and powered catamarans have a modest presence on the region’s waterways.

3.1.3 Other users

While the above data provides information on licence holders and vessels registered in the Sydney Harbour region, it does not capture vessels from other regions, in particular from the surrounding Botany Bay, Georges River, Port Hacking Region and the Hawkesbury River, Pittwater and Brisbane Water Region. This can significantly add to the local demand at certain times of the year. It should also be noted that a proportion of Sydney residents also travel north/south to alternate boating destinations during the holiday periods.

Roads and Maritime’s licence and registration data does not capture non-powered craft numbers such as kayaks, canoes, beach-launch sail craft which do not require registration. Based on the estimated total number of these vessel types in NSW, it is likely that in the Sydney Harbour region these numbers may be significant.

In recent years the boating and commercial sectors have estimated that over one million people use boats as a form of recreation on the harbour. Additionally approximately 15 million passengers used ferry service across Sydney Harbour and the rivers in 2011-12.


3.1.4 Future demand

In 2010, the then NSW Maritime released a report titled NSW Boat Ownership and Storage Growth Forecasts to 2026. The report forecast a continuing growth trend in vessel ownership of 2.9% annually across NSW.

The report noted that while the Sydney Harbour region was home to 8% of the State’s boats, it had more large boats (relatively) than the other regions with close to 40% of its boats falling in the 6 m and above category. Sydney Harbour was also identified as having one of the largest number of boats per square kilometre as well as the lowest number of boats per person throughout the State.

Further to the 2010 report, in February 2014 the MMC released the Sydney Harbour Boat Storage Strategy which provided an update on forecast growth in Sydney. Strategies and actions arising from the 2014 report are discussed below in Chapter 6.

3.2 Regional site visits

Regional site visits and consultation with local stakeholders were an integral part of the study process. This section summarises key findings and observations from these visits and consultation. Further details are provided in Chapters 4, 5 and 6.

During the site visits, a number of key storage and access sites were visited. It was clear that there have been substantial upgrades to the ramps in the region through the Better Boating Program. However, stakeholder feedback highlighted that there was insufficient parking capacity to cater for peak period demand at numerous boat ramps, as well as the need for improved amenities at some of the smaller ramps. Some boat ramps such as at Rose Bay demonstrated the conflicts that can occur in highly urbanised areas where transport and recreational needs are shared both on water and on land, in particular in relation to parking. This was similar to the Hawkesbury River, Pittwater and Brisbane Water region with its high numbers of commuters requiring land-based facilities.

Stakeholders also highlighted the need for new boat ramps central to the Harbour as well as on the Parramatta River to meet current and future demand.

While recognising the positive steps taken by the Government in providing ‘destinations’ through commercial sites such as marinas, stakeholders also highlighted the need for more destination opportunities to provide ‘anchorages’ predominantly around the National Park and Wildlife Services islands (Clark, Shark and Rodd), east of the Harbour Bridge and in Middle Harbour. Moreover the need for more pontoons to access popular parks and suburbs such as at Manly and Olympic Park was highlighted during site visits and consultations.

The need for additional on-water and dry storage capacity in this region was identified during the site visits and highlighted in feedback from substantial numbers of stakeholders. The numerous long mooring waiting lists in the region were identified as limiting boating access in the affected areas. In addition, the minimal availability of dry storage and a lack of long-term trailer parking facilities were also identified as issues. Access and storage for dinghies and non-powered craft including rowing boats, sailing dinghies, kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddle boards and dragon boats were both observed on site and highlighted by stakeholders as issues. The above observations and feedback in relation to storage support the findings of the Sydney Harbour and its Tributaries Boating Safety Plan and Sydney Harbour Boat Storage Strategy.

The physical characteristics of the harbour and rivers indicated the preference of both individual and commercial users to store vessels and recreate in sheltered bays due to the prevailing conditions.


3.3 Consultation to date

Stakeholder consultation was undertaken in this region with the councils, Roads and Maritime’s Boating Safety Officers (BSOs) and other groups through facilitated workshops and meetings. Appendix A provides a comprehensive list of State-wide stakeholders consulted as part of this study. Table 1 outlines the groups consulted specifically for this region.

Table 1 – External stakeholders consulted at a regional level

Agency / Group Represented

Boating Safety Officers responsible for the region

Auburn City Council (ACC);

City of Canada Bay Council (CCBC)

The City of Ryde Council (CRC)

Council of the City of Sydney (CCS)

Lane Cove Municipal Council (LCMC)

Leichhardt Municipal Council (LMC)

Manly Council (MC)

Mosman Municipal Council (MMC)

North Sydney Council (NSC)

Parramatta City Council (PCC)

The Council of the Municipality of Hunters Hill (CMHH)

Willoughby City Council (WCC)

Woollahra Municipal Council (WMC)

National Parks and Wildlife Services

Rowing NSW

Sailing NSW

Dragon Boating NSW

Individual and other representative stakeholders from community organisations, sporting clubs and marinas.

Stakeholders provided direct feedback both verbally and in writing in addition to responding to the online survey which was also open to the broader community. In total 399 survey responses were received for this region. The outcomes of the survey should not be viewed as representative of all users of this waterway. A detailed profile of the survey respondents is summarised below in Table 2.


Trailerable powboat, 17.0%

er Sailing dinghy, 9.0% Yacht, 30.0%

C11.0%

anoe / kayak, Other 18.0%

Number of

respondents 399 (Individuals 342, Government 57)

Respondent

Category

Industry/commerci al, 1%

Individual boater, 70%

Club/ Group Rep, 11% O

ther

,11

%

General Public, 6% Government, 1%

20-29, 5.0%

30-39, 11.0% 40-49, 19.0% 50-59, 27.0% 60+, 35.0% Age Group

Licence type

Less than 20, 3.0%

Personal Young Adult PWC Watercraft (PWC) Licence, 0%

Licence, 5%

General Licence, 63% No licence, 27%

General Young Commercial Adult Licence, 0% licence, 5%

Yes, 261 No, 81 Boat ownership

Boat type

Power boat, 14.0%

Personal Watercraft (PWC),

1.0%

More than 6 metres, 57%

Boat length Less than 6 metres, 43%

Boat Category

Recreational

Boating

Activities

Recreational, 99%

Fishing, 14% Cruising, 23% Sailing, 25%

Commercial, 1%

Oth

er,

13%

Water sports, 15% Special events, 8%

Table 2 – Profile of survey respondents


Summer (October - March)

Winter (April - September)

Boating Frequency

Less Weekly Fortnightly Monthly frequently


4. Safety

Key findings

• Stakeholder consultation suggests high levels of satisfaction with current boating safety measures in the

region.

• Analysis of safety data demonstrates that a considerable portion of infringements are by boaters speeding and not carrying the necessary safety equipment such as lifejackets.

• Stakeholder feedback suggests that the large contingent of motorised vessels over 6 m regularly create

excessive wash without consideration for other waterway users.

• Less experienced people in non-powered craft, often lack knowledge in regards to on-water regulations

and protocols.

• Stakeholder feedback suggests that signage and navigation aids are generally good in the region however; improvements could still be made to enhance the overall boating experience.

Actions

Refer to Sydney Harbour and its Tributaries Boating Safety Plan

Sydney Harbour and its Tributaries Boating Safety Plan

Following extensive public consultation, the MMC published the Sydney Harbour and its Tributaries Boating Safety Plan (Boating Safety Plan) in August 2014. The purpose of the Boating Safety Plan is to underpin the development and implementation of a range of initiatives which aim to address navigation safety issues specific to the waterway. Issues that are identified in the Boating Safety Plan include user behaviour and compliance and enforcement across the region, as well as detailed analysis on campaigns, complaints, infringements and incidents not covered in this plan.

In response to the issues raised in the Boating Safety Plan, the MMC and Roads and Maritime have developed and are progressively delivering targeted local education and compliance campaigns to educate boaters on safe boating practices. This Regional Plan should be read in partnership with the Boating Safety Plan.

The Sydney Harbour and its Tributaries Boating Safety Plan can be viewed and downloaded at http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/mmc


http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/mmc

4.1 Overview of existing safety activities

The MMC has led a campaign with Roads and Maritime to promote the wearing of lifejackets, especially in small vessels. The campaign is a response to the fact that 9 out of 10 people, who drown when boating, are not wearing a lifejacket.

The campaign has been the most comprehensive, targeted program on boating safety in NSW history. It included an extensive and targeted advertising campaign, an innovative mobile lifejacket promotional van which took the safety message to the boating public State-wide (including visits to the Sydney Harbour region), a zero tolerance on-water compliance approach and a host of supporting activities.

Roads and Maritime is responsible for the operational delivery of marine safety in NSW, including the operational aspects of the regulation of recreational and commercial boating activity throughout the State. The enforcement role is chiefly performed by BSOs who conduct regular on-water patrols and inspections throughout the Sydney Harbour waterways to provide boating safety education and ensure compliance with safety requirements (such as lifejackets), speed, wash, distance off, aquatic licences, commercial operations and mooring requirements.

Roads and Maritime also operate a Mobile Safety Education and Compliance Team which is a team of specialist BSOs who can be deployed throughout NSW.

The BSOs work in close partnership with the local NSW Police Force (both general duties police and the local Marine Area Command), often conducting joint patrols, although police officers are solely responsible for conducting random breath testing on NSW navigable waters.

BSOs also work in partnership with officers of the Department of Primary Industries (Fisheries) and National Parks’ rangers in relation to matters of common interest. In addition to the BSOs, Sydney Ports Corporation (SPC) operates a Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) which monitors the movement of vessels 30m or more in length within the VTS area in Sydney Harbour to improve the safe and efficient movement of vessels and protect the ports environment and infrastructure from possible adverse effects.

In addition to State-wide regulatory requirements and boating safety campaigns, specific boating safety restrictions that apply in the Sydney Harbour region are shown on the map included in Appendix B and online at http://www.maritime.nsw.gov.au/publications/maps.html. These are summarised as follows:

• Speed restrictions such as:

– 4 knot zones, specifically at:

Darling Harbour;

Blackwattle Bay and Rozelle Bay;

Iron Cove;

Exile Bay;

Burns Bay;

Upstream of Fig Tree Bridge on Lane Cove River;

Around the Spit Bridge;

Folly Point;

Bantry Bay;

Echo Point (around Roseville Bridge);

Parts of North Harbour;


http://www.maritime.nsw.gov.au/publications/maps.html

Spring Cove and Little Manly Cove;

Around Fairmile Cove (close to the Ferry crossing); and

Camp Cove.

– 7 knot zone upstream of Silverwater Bridge on the Parramatta River for authorisedcommercial vessels;

– 8 knot zones at Circular Quay and Overseas Passenger Terminal, White Bay, parts ofDarling Harbour, Chinamans Beach and Killarney Point; and

– 15 knot zone around the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

• “no wash” and “no towing” zones; and

• restriction on the use of PWCs.

Further controls exist in the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea which are observed in NSW and include, but are not limited to, the following:

• The skipper (master of the vessel) is responsible for the safety of the vessel and allpeople on board;

• The skipper must always:

– keep to a safe speed for the conditions (eg., slower speeds at times of reducedvisibility, rough water, congested waterway);

– keep a proper lookout;

– be prepared to take action to avoid a collision; and

– display appropriate navigation lights at night.

In addition, there are also a number of general “distance off” restrictions which apply on all NSW waters – for example, vessels travelling at 10 knots or more must remain at least 60 m from people in the water and 30 m from structures, shorelines and other powered vessels. Where it is not possible to maintain the specified distances, a “safe distance” should be maintained. This is the distance which will ensure that a vessel will not endanger or injure people or damage property, having regard to relevant factors such as prevailing weather conditions, visibility, speed and any obstructions.


4.2 Consultation feedback

Survey respondents generally rated their satisfaction level with respect to safety positively, with 72% stating it to be acceptable or above.

Figure 3 – Survey response – overall safety satisfaction

2%

15%

26%

31%

19%

7% Very satisfied

Satisfied

Acceptable

Dissatisfied

Very dissatisfied

Not applicable

Respondents that rated the overall safety of the region as ‘dissatisfied’ or ‘very dissatisfied’ were typically concerned about: wash, speed and on-water behaviour. Respondents specifically mentioned large motor boats travelling at high speed and in close proximity to moored vessels or smaller vessels creating wake. Overall the respondents’ results were tallied to identify the perceived importance of various safety issues. The resulting rankings are shown in Table 3.

Table 3 – Perceived importance of safety issues – survey responses

Rank Issue

1 Wash

2 Speed

3 On-water behaviour

4 Vessels not observing correct distance

5 Navigation aids

6 Hazards

7 Emergency response

4.3 Key findings

The consultation feedback suggests that boaters in the Sydney Harbour region generally have a high level of satisfaction with current boating safety. Of the online survey respondents, 72% indicated that safety in the region was at least acceptable. However, analysis of complaints, infringements and incidents data suggests that, as busy waterways with multiple types of users, Roads and Maritime must continue to actively manage safety on the waterways through its compliance activities and education campaigns. This waterway also services a considerable number of ferries and commercial services. Some stakeholders provided positive feedback on the prohibition of the use of PWCs in Sydney Harbour commenting that the preventative measures have increased safety on the waterway for the many user groups.

This region has a large proportion of vessels over 6 m compared to the other regions. This region also services a large variety of waterway users from large motor cruisers and sailing


vessels (both visiting and local), smaller sailing vessels (yachts and dinghies), non-powered craft, stand-up paddle boards (SUPs) and swimmers. It was identified, through analysis and stakeholder consultation, that some operators of motorised crafts do not observe appropriate distance off. However, people in non-powered craft, particularly the less experienced passive craft users, are perceived to have a lack knowledge regarding on-water regulations and protocols. As a result, on occasions people in non-powered craft are seen paddling on busy navigation channels utilised by commuter ferries, other commercial vessels and large recreational boats instead of staying on the less congested fringes of these channels. Examples of such locations include the channel between Clontarf Reserve and The Spit, as well as Manly Cove. Feedback was also received in regards to the inconsistencies in the safety interventions and requirements for people in non-powered craft. For example, sailboarders and kite surfers are restricted to operate within specific bays and channels. Similar restrictions, however, do not apply to kayakers/canoeist and SUPs in Sydney Harbour.

It is also clear that there are areas of dissatisfaction where improvements to the boating experience can be made. Various stakeholders including sporting clubs have provided feedback regarding the generation of excessive wash particularly by larger vessels along with vessels not complying with speed and wash regulations. This was identified to be of specific concern in areas such as Abbotsford Point, Balmain and the channel between Cockatoo Island and Birchgrove. Excessive wash has also been highlighted as an issue during competitions and events including club sailing regattas and races.

Similar to the Hawkesbury River, Pittwater and Brisbane Water region, it was noted through stakeholder workshops that sporting bodies such as Rowing NSW and Dragon Boating NSW are willing to work together to investigate the feasibility of shared facilities. Further investigating this strategy may ease on-water conflicts between different waterway user groups in the region. This is further discussed in Chapter 5.

Whilst, generally, navigation aids in the region were considered to be satisfactory, the boating experience could be enhanced through their ongoing maintenance and upgrades at specific locations mentioned in Chapter 8. Signage, especially regarding wash and speed restrictions, are sometimes unclear due to the extensive distances from navigation channels to land. These issues have been identified at specific locations listed in Chapter 8.



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5. Access

Key findings

• Over the past five years, approximately $8.3 million has been spent on boating improvements in the Sydney Harbour region through the Better Boating Program.

• Given the large population, there are a relatively limited number of boat ramps in the region. Howeverthere are a reasonable number of other waterway access points such as wharves and jetties.

• Access infrastructure facilities at most locations do not meet demand during peak periods and generallyhave insufficient parking facilities.

• More can be done to improve the condition of some of the region’s boating infrastructure.

• Lack of access facilities to utilise popular land based destinations was identified as a limit to recreationalboating.

Actions

a. Work with councils on options to improve the capacity, condition and amenity of existing access facilitiesin the region

b. Identify strategic locations for new boating access infrastructure on Sydney Harbour, specificallyreviewing opportunities to develop a new ramp and associated facilities at Glebe Island/White Bay

c. Work with councils on options to increase the capacity of car and trailer parking at boat ramps region-wide

d. Investigate opportunities to increase temporary access at popular recreational boating destinations,including opportunities to improve and promote access to certain ferry wharves.


5.1 Overview of existing acces s facilities

Vessels access the waterways of the Sydney Harbour region in several ways including boat ramps, private and commercial moorings, marina berths and club or private landing facilities. Trailered vessels are the most common type of vessel in the region and can be launched and retrieved at public boat ramps, some of which have facilities such as trailer parking, fish cleaning tables and toilets. This region also has a significant proportion of larger vessels compared to other regions. Public wharves and jetties are also located on the region’s waterways and provide alternate access to recreational and commercial vessels. Formal and informal dinghy storage facilities exist and are used to access moored vessels. Waterfront landowners can also gain direct access to the waterway through private landing facilities.

There is also informal access for smaller vessels (including canoes and kayaks) from a number of public reserves and beaches.

Boat ramps

There are approximately 16 formalised boat ramps.

Location:

– ten of these ramps are located on the Parramatta River;

– two are in Middle Harbour;

– two are located on the Lane Cove River;

– one is in North Harbour; and

– one is in Outer Sydney Harbour.

Material:

– 15 of these are made of concrete;

– The remaining ramp is the skiff ramp for public access at Longueville.Public jetties, wharves and pontoons

Further analysis of the region’s infrastructure found that there are 137 public access points including wharves, jetties, pontoons and landings.

Location:

– 47 are located on the Parramatta River;

– 39 are in Inner Sydney Harbour;

– 26 are in Outer Sydney Harbour;

– 15 are in Middle Harbour;

– seven are on the Lane Cove River; and

– three are in North Harbour.Courtesy moorings

Current courtesy moorings include:

• Eight in Bantry Bay;

• Five in Athol Bay;

• Four in Castle Cove/Crag Cove;

• Three on the eastern foreshore opposite Clontarf;

• Two to the west of the Spit Bridge near Pearl Bay;

• Two to the east of the Spit Bridge near Fisher Bay; and

• Two in Hen and Chicken Bay near Cabarita.


In addition, emergency moorings are provided at 23 locations.

Figure 4 – Example access facilities within the region

Boat Ramp and Pontoon at Rhodes Margaret Street Boat Ramp and Pontoon

Homebush Bay Armoury Davidson Park Boat Ramp and Pontoons

5.1.1 Better Boating Program grants

Through the Better Boating Program, Roads and Maritime has provided grants of approximately $8.3 million for 49 projects in the Sydney Harbour region between 2009/10 and 2013/14. A selection of these can be seen in Figure with all projects listed in Table 4 below. It is important to note that the total cost of the projects is not depicted in this table. For total cost of the projects refer to http://www.maritime.nsw.gov.au/mpd/success_projects.html.

Table 4 – List of grants provided to Sydney Harbour region through the BBP projects

Recipient Project Final Grant

Auburn Council Landing Jetty at Silverwater Park Boat Ramp, $38,477 Parramatta River (Additional Funding)

Bailey's Marine Fuels Sewage Pumpout Facility at White Bay 6, $84,250 Australia Balmain Balmain Sailing Club Balmain Sailing Club Pontoon Facility and $150,000

Access Upgrade, Balmain* City of Canada Bay Council Bayview Park Boat Ramp Upgrade & New $242,082

Pontoon, Concord (Construction) City of Canada Bay Council Bayview Park Boat Ramp Upgrade, Concord $8,675

(Beach Regeneration)* City of Canada Bay Council Blaxland Road Boat Ramp Facility $350,000


http://www.maritime.nsw.gov.au/mpd/success_projects.html


Improvement (Boat Ramp & Pontoon), Rhodes - Additional Funding

City of Canada Bay Council Blaxland Road Boat Ramp Facility Improvement (Boat Ramp & Pontoon), Rhodes - Additional Funding

$96,853

City of Canada Bay Council Blaxland Road Boat Ramp Facility Improvement (Car/Trailer Parking), Rhodes

$274,859

City of Canada Bay Council City of Canada Bay Dinghy Storage Plan of Management*

$20,000

City of Canada Bay Council Taplin Park Boat Ramp Parking Upgrade, Drummoyne (Additional Funding)

$796,699

City of Canada Bay Council Thompson Street Wharf Feasibility Study $15,000 City of Ryde Council & Parramatta City Council

Wharf Road Boat Facilities Improvement, Ermington (Additional Funding)

$137,500

City of Sydney Council Glebe Foreshore Upgrade - Stage 5, Glebe* $50,000 Concord & Ryde Sailing Club Restoration of Soft Water Access at

Bennelong Park, Putney (Investigation Study)*

$10,000

Dobroyd Aquatic Club Dobroyd Aquatic Club Replacement Pontoon, Rodd Point

$36,906

Glebe Rowing Club Inc. Glebe Rowing Club Pontoon, Blackwattle Bay $132,790 Hunters Hill Council Dinghy Racks at Murray Prior Reserve,

Hunters Hill $20,492

Hunters Hill Council Margaret Street Boat Ramp Upgrade, Woolwich (Construction)

$384,000

Hunters Hill Council Margaret Street Boat Ramp Carpark Upgrade, Woolwich (Additional Funding)

$350,000

Hunters Hill Council Margaret Street Boat Ramp Carpark Upgrade, Woolwich (Additional Funding)

$245,000

Hunters Hill Sailing Club Hunters Hill Sailing Club Floating Pontoon, Woolwich

$93,538

Lane Cove Council Burns Bay Boat Ramp Upgrade, Riverview (Additional Funding)

$155,000

Lane Cove Council Burns Bay Boat Ramp New Pontoon, Riverview*

$150,000

Lane Cove Council Woodford Bay Dinghy Storage (Planning & Design), Longueville

$10,000

Leichhardt Council Cove Street Wharf Dinghy Storage, Birchgrove (additional storage racks)

$12,550

Leichhardt Council Fitzroy Park Dinghy Storage, Birchgrove $8,125 Leichhardt Council King George Park Dinghy Storage, Rozelle $12,278 Leichhardt Council King George Park Pontoon, Rozelle $52,500 Leichhardt Council King George Park Pontoon, Rozelle

(Additional Funding) $61,667



Leichhardt Council Leichhardt Park - Foreshore Access Steps & Dinghy Storage Facility

$17,805

Leichhardt Council Mort Bay Park Dinghy Storage, Balmain $4,500 Leichhardt Council Propeller Park Dinghy Launching Ramp,

Balmain* $15,000

Manly Council Clontarf Reserve Public Jetty & Pontoon, Clontarf*

$90,000

Manly Council Pickering Point Public Pontoon and Jetty, Seaforth

$89,496

Manly Council Sandy Bay Reserve Dinghy Storage Facility, Clontarf

$12,500

Middle Harbour Amateur Sailing Club

MHASC Car Park Refurbishment, The Spit $7,000

Middle Harbour Yacht Club Middle Harbour Yacht Club New Public Sewage Pump-out Facility, The Spit*

$23,153

Mosman Municipal Council Rehabilitation of Clifton Gardens Jetty, Mosman (Additional Funding 2)

$117,075

Mosman Municipal Council Rehabilitation of Clifton Gardens Jetty, Mosman (Additional Funding 3)

$66,024

Mosman Municipal Council Repairs to Balmoral Jetty and Inkerman Street Jetty, Mosman

$28,618

Mosman Rowing Club Pearl Bay Pontoon, Mosman (Additional Funding)

$29,900

North Sydney Council Berry Island Reserve Dinghy Storage and Water Access Upgrade, Wollstonecraft*

$43,738

North Sydney Council Tunks Park Boat Ramp Floating Pontoon, Cammeray (Additional Funding)

$43,143

National Parks & Wildlife Service

Bantry Bay Jetty Repairs $24,300


Davidson Park Boat Ramp Facilities Improvement, Killarney Heights (Stage 1B -Boat Ramp & Pontoons)

$525,540


Davidson Park Boat Ramp Facilities Improvement, Killarney Heights (Stage 1B -Boat Ramp & Pontoons) - Additional Funding

$563,407


Davidson Park Boat Ramp Facility Upgrade, Killarney Heights (Stage 2 - Carpark)

$400,000


Davidson Park Boat Ramp Facility Upgrade, Killarney Heights (Stage 2 - Carpark) -Additional Funding

$300,000


Davidson Park Boat Ramp Facility Upgrade, Killarney Heights (Stage 2 - Carpark) -

$273,000



Additional Funding

Parramatta City Council Lake Parramatta Reserve Education & Water $100,000 Access Precinct Upgrade, North Parramatta

Parramatta City Council Wharf Road Boat Ramp Facilities $298,575 Improvement, Ermington

Woollahra Council Lyne Park Boating Access Options Study $25,200 Woollahra Council Lyne Park Boat Ramp Improvements, Rose $72,066

Bay (Design) Woollahra Council Lyne Park Boat Ramp Improvements, Rose $350,000

Bay (Boat Ramp & Pontoons) Woollahra Council

Woollahra Council

Lyne Park Boat Ramp Improvements, Rose Bay (Boat Ramp & Pontoons) - Additional Funding Lyne Park Boat Ramp Improvements, Rose Bay (Boat Ramp & Pontoons) - Additional Funding

$800,000

$76,361

Woollahra Council Steyne Park Dinghy Storage, Double Bay $10,127 TOTAL $8,276,269

* denotes Active projects as of 21/01/2014

Figure 5 – Completed BBP projects examples within the region

Taplin Park Boat Ramp, Drummoyne Leichardt Park Pontoon

Shepherds Bay Wharf, Meadowbank Mosman Rowers Pontoon



Approximately 58% of survey respondents rated their satisfaction level with access and infrastructure facilities as acceptable or higher and 34% were dissatisfied or very dissatisfied. These values are represented below in Figure 4.

Figure 4 – Survey response – overall satisfaction with access and infrastructure facilities

4%

21%

33%

23%

11%

8%

Very satisfied

Satisfied

Acceptable

Dissatisfied

Very dissatisfied

Not applicable

Respondents that rated the overall access of the region as ‘dissatisfied’ or ‘very dissatisfied’ were typically concerned about the limited access points given the large number of boaters, insufficient capacity of infrastructure and adjacent car parks, the condition of infrastructure and a lack of disabled/less abled access. Overall the respondents’ results were tallied to identify the perceived importance of various access issues. The resulting rankings are shown in Table 5.

Table 5 – Perceived importance of access and infrastructure issues – survey responses

Rank Issue

1 General access

2 Capacity

3 Condition

4 Safety

5 Car parking

6 Amenity

7 Accessibility to moorings

8 Trailer parking

9 Disability access

5.3 Key findings

As evident from Section 5.1 above, the Sydney Harbour region has a limited number of boat ramps; however the region has numerous other access points such as wharves and jetties. Over the last five years this region has benefited significantly from the BBP, which has seen


approximately $8.3 M of funding for infrastructure upgrades. However, consultation feedback suggests a lack of capacity at most access points to accommodate demand at peak times and to keep pace with the expected growth in boat ownership over the next decade.

Stakeholders including councils have highlighted the need for new access points particularly in proximity to or east of the Harbour Bridge. With the scarcity and value of foreshore space there are limited opportunities for such developments. The Government is currently working on projects such as the Bays Precinct and the Urban Activation Precinct for Wentworth Point. It is important that these projects consider the provision of access and storage for recreational boating. With the limited amount of public foreshore left in Sydney Harbour, this may be one of the few opportunities that can be utilised to enhance the capacity of the access and storage facilities.

Stakeholder feedback suggested that boating access could be enhanced by making some of the ferry wharves across the harbour more accessible for use by recreational vessels. Analysis indicates that short-term parking arrangements at many wharves tend to complement demand from different users. During weekdays, the parking at these facilities is typically occupied by ferry commuters, whilst during weekends recreational users tend to utilise the parking.

Conversely, at some access points, particularly boat ramps, such as at Rose Bay, Five Dock Bay and Little Manly Cove, there is inadequate trailer parking facilities to cater for recreational boaters. As well as restrictions with parking capacity, further limitations such as time restrictions and cost further decrease parking availability for recreational boating.

Owing to the BBP upgrades and council maintenance, the existing boat ramps were observed to be in a serviceable condition.

Rowing and dragon boating associations highlighted the need to support current facilities and identify new opportunities for storage and access in the region including opportunities for for shared locations where possible.

It is noted that the Sydney Harbour Boating Destinations Plan launched by NSW Government in November 2013 has increased the number of services and amenities available to the general boating public on Sydney Harbour (http://www.maritime.nsw.gov.au/boating-destinationsplan.html). As part of this plan, numerous commercial marinas have provided access to facilities such as water, fuel, toilets, sewage pump-out and other services.

Some other popular locations, however, generally lack appropriate foreshore access options to enhance and promote recreational boating use. Locations such as Darling Harbour and the Fish Markets currently offer public short-term berthing for recreational vessels, allowing boaters to moor temporarily to access the land facilities. Stakeholder feedback suggests that there are a range of other locations that provide both natural and commercial amenities that would benefit from increased access options. Congestion at these locations as well as utilisation of on-land facilities could be enhanced by increasing and formalising access options.

5.4 Actions

a. Work with councils on options to improve the capacity, condition and amenity ofexisting access facilities in the region

Given the large number of facilities in the region and the fact that Regional Boating Plans are also being developed concurrently in 10 other regions across the State, a detailed analysis of each facility in the region was not undertaken. However, the consultation with councils, key stakeholders, the on-line surveys and site inspections at regionally significant waterways have identified key boating access issues and potential solutions by location. Details on these issues and potential solutions are described in Chapter 8.


http://www.maritime.nsw.gov.au/boating-destinations-plan.html

http://www.maritime.nsw.gov.au/boating-destinations-plan.html

Increasing the capacity of existing infrastructure can be achieved through widening ramps, placement or extension of pontoons and jetties and introducing designated queuing and ramp approach lanes. Potential opportunities to increase capacity at existing facilities are identified in Chapter 8, although it is noted that some opportunities may be constrained by limited land availability.

Stakeholder feedback suggests there are opportunities to upgrade some of the existing boat ramps and jetties to maximise usability, safety and efficiency of existing infrastructure. Such upgrades to improve the condition of existing facilities include re-surfacing of boat ramps and/or surrounding areas, upgrading and extension of jetties, pontoons, wharves or boat ramps to improve access at low water levels or the maintenance and upgrade of structural aspects of access facilities. Improving these facilities will not only improve safety and usability of these existing access facilities, but will also assist in meeting current and future demand with waterway users encouraged to use a more extensive network of facilities.

Any potential upgrades should be considered along with improving or providing other facilities such as toilets, lighting, fish cleaning tables, boat wash-down and sewage pump-out facilities or further promoting locations where they are currently accessible. Potential locations where the condition of assets could be upgraded include Manns Point, Silverwater and Drummoyne (Thompsons St). With any potential upgrades, it is also important to consider safety signage and education programmes to inform the users of etiquette and right of way at boat ramps, pontoons and jetty access facilities.

The MMC will hold further discussion with councils across this region to assist in developing an approach to improve the condition of existing facilities by identifying a list of priority projects that will deliver the greatest improvement to the boating experience for the region. Other stakeholders and the general public are also encouraged to identify specific access improvement projects in the region to add to those outlined in Chapter 8.

b. Identify strategic locations for new boating access infrastructure on SydneyHarbour, specifically reviewing opportunities to develop a new ramp andassociated facilities at Glebe Island/White Bay

Sydney Harbour access facilities are congested due to the large amount of boating taking place and limited boat ramp access to the waterways. The development of new public access facilities at strategic locations may disperse users to different access points and relieve the pressure from popular access facilities such as at Rose Bay and Five Dock Bay boat ramps. However, the lack of available land in many parts of the harbour means that opportunities for new access facilities are limited.

The NSW Government has previously announced that opportunities are being explored to establish a recreational boat ramp and associated trailer parking facility within the Bays Precinct.

c. Work with councils on options to increase the capacity of car and trailer parking atboat ramps region-wide

Analysis and stakeholder feedback suggests that most boat ramps and areas with high density of on-water storage require more car and trailer parking. Some locations suggested include Cabarita and Manns Point.

As limited land availability restricts parking expansion opportunities in a number of areas, suggestions are invited from Councils or other organisations seeking to partner with Government to deliver innovative parking solutions, such as making use of land or existing car parks that are away from the water, with valet or shuttle services provided to the nearest ramp.


d. Investigate opportunities to increase temporary access at popular recreationalboating destinations, including opportunities to improve and promote access tocertain ferry wharves.

The Sydney Harbour Destinations Plan has provided a significant boost to the boating experience on Sydney Harbour by creating a range of new access points where recreational boaters can temporarily tie-up to use facilities at participating marinas or nearby locations. Stakeholder feedback has suggested a number of locations to provide access opportunities including Watsons Bay, Armoury Point (Newington), Kissing Point, Castle Rock and various National Park destinations. The above locations provide on-land amenities including shops, parks and picnic areas, toilets, swimming areas, etc. On-water access to these could be greatly enhanced through the provision of infrastructure such as jetties and pontoons and further provision of courtesy moorings. Roads and Maritime is currently working on the installation of an additional 19 courtesy moorings across the region.

A number of ferry wharves on the harbour are no longer used for regular ferry services and provide an opportunity to increase access for recreational boaters. MMC and Roads and Maritime will identify opportunities to improve recreational boating access at wharves such as Birkenhead Point, Bayview Park and Balmain West. This could include the additions of pontoons or other facilities to facilitate recreational vessels.

There are also a number of wharves that are used for ferry services relatively infrequently outside of the commuter peaks and could accommodate further recreational vessel access for passenger pick-ups and drop-offs.

A review of recreational vessel access opportunities at commuter wharves will be undertaken with the results to be incorporated into the Sydney Harbour Destinations Plan, with clear information provided to boaters about which wharves can be accessed at which times, including rules or etiquette to be observed to ensure no disruption to ferry services.

Figure 6 – Examples of access issues/opportunities

Little Manly Cove boat ramp provides limited access

capacity compared to high demand

Silverwater boat ramp and jetty provides difficult

access at low tides


Newington Armoury. Additional upgrades would Thompson Street Wharf, Drummoyne. Opportunity to increase berthing potential and boating destination upgrade and provide pontoon access

appeal


6. Storage

Key findings

• Achieving the growth targets identified in the Sydney Harbour Boat Storage Strategy requires ongoingcollaboration between Government and industry as well as innovative infrastructure solutions and policy

reforms.

Actions

e. Continue to work towards the growth targets identified in the Sydney Harbour Boat Storage Strategy f. Roads and Maritime to develop campaign targeted at reducing “mooring minders” to help reduce waiting

lists g. Explore the feasibility and benefits of alternate on-water storage methods that increase capacity while

minimising the overall impact of boat storage. h.

Introduce measures to better manage the problems caused by trailers being stored on residential streets in many waterside suburbs around Sydney Harbour.

Sydney Harbour Boat Storage Strategy

In February 2014 the MMC released the Sydney Harbour Boat Storage Strategy. The Strategy seeks to identify the optimal mix of growth across the various forms of boat storage that will be required to accommodate the estimated 5,000 additional vessels will be on the harbour by 2021. The Strategy was developed following public consultation on a draft version released in 2013. A full copy of the strategy is at: http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/content/sydney-harbour-boat-storage-strategy

The targets identified in the Strategy are not intended to limit growth in any category, but have been developed as a means of achieving a common understanding among stakeholders and the community on the expansion required in each boat storage category, to deliver the best outcomes.

The Strategy notes the need for growth across all forms of boat storage but highlights, in particular, the need for dry boat storage options around the harbour. The need for measures to address the increasing incidence of long-term parking of boat trailers on suburban streets in waterside suburbs was also raised as a key action.

During consultations, industry highlighted that complexities imposed by the current planning controls on the Harbour represents the biggest challenge to meeting the storage targets.


http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/content/sydney-harbour-boat-storage-strategy

Figure 7 – Examples of existing types of on-water storage

Marina berths at Woolwich Marina berths at Rose Bay and Point Piper

Marina berths at Gladesville Bridge Swing moorings in Rose Bay

Hardstand storage at Woollahra Sailing Club Marina berths Pulpit Point

An array of on-water storage options at Sailors Bay: - fore and aft commercial moorings - marina berths at both Castlecrag boatshed

(top right) and Northbridge Marina (top left) - swing moorings interspersed

Hardstand storage at Kirribilli



Approximately 50% of survey respondents rated the adequacy of storage facilities as acceptable or higher and approximately 39% rated the adequacy of storage facilities as inadequate or very inadequate.

Figure 5 – Survey response – overall satisfaction of storage facilities

8%

15%

27%23%

16%

11%

Very adequate

Adequate

Acceptable

Inadequate

Very inadequate

Not applicable

Respondents, both boaters and non-boaters, that rated the overall storage of the region as ‘inadequate’ or ‘very inadequate’ were typically concerned about lack of parking spaces and limited availability of storage. Whilst lack of parking was ranked number one concern in the survey, it should be noted that a large proportion of comments in relation to parking spaces referred to short-term parking at ramps. Of the other comments, a small proportion referred to short-term parking at inner city bays, such as Rushcutters Bay and most others highlighted trailer parking in the Manly, Canada Bay and Woollahra LGAs as inadequate. Overall the respondents’ results were tallied to identify the perceived importance of various storage issues shown below.

Table 6 – Perceived importance of storage issues – survey responses

Rank Issue

1

2 Physical accessibility

3 Cost

4 Amenity

5 Dinghy storage

6 Waiting list

Lack of parking spaces

6.2 Key findings

Progress has already been made towards achieving the growth targets identified in the Sydney Harbour Boat Storage Strategy through the construction of new dry-stack storage facilities around the harbour over the past 12 months, including in Rozelle Bay, White Bay and Cockatoo


Island. Additional dry-stack capacity is being planned as part of developments in Berrys Bay and Wentworth Point.

There are a number of challenges involved in achieving the growth targets for on-water storage, in particular the targets to increase mooring numbers by 300 and to increase marina berths by 600 to 800. New policy approaches and innovative infrastructure solutions will be required if these targets are to be met.

Consultation feedback also identified number of storage needs for non-powered craft. For example, numerous sailing stakeholders highlighted increasing demand for minimal space to store sailing dinghies, especially those smaller clubs holding major sailing events such as Woollahra Sailing Club east and Drummoyne Sailing Club west of the bridge. Whilst these clubs operate as commercial licenses, the feedback highlighted the need for funding to support increased storage and access due to the importance of sailing generally and the events to the region.

Due to the growing popularity as well as competing uses for foreshore space, feedback from rowing and dragon boating associations highlighted the need to provide support for current facilities as well as to identify new opportunities for storage and access in the region and where possible determining any shared locations for future development. Similarly, kayak, and canoe usage continues to grow. While there is some formalised storage such as at public storage racks and commercial marinas, there is a need for more storage options.

Consultation feedback also highlights the increasing concern from residents in many waterside suburbs about the impact of boat trailers being left parked on residential streets for lengthy periods of time. Achieving the targets in the Sydney Harbour Boat Storage Strategy should help provide alternative storage options in the longer term that will help reduce the number of boats being stored on residential streets. However, there are also short term measures that can pursued to better manage the problems that can be caused by boat trailer parking.

6.3 Actions

e. Continue to work towards the growth targets identified in the Sydney Harbour BoatStorage Strategy

It is expected that a number of key reforms to improve boat storage on Sydney Harbour will be developed in the next stage of the Moorings Review. In March 2014, released the Moorings Review Issues Paper for public consultation as the first step in a review process designed to modernise the policy and regulatory framework governing the administration of moorings in NSW. The consultation period for the Moorings Review Issues Paper closed on 1 August 2014 and submissions are currently being reviewed.

The MMC is also continuing to work with the Department of Planning and Environment and with other relevant NSW Government agencies to identify opportunities to streamline approval processes for the development of boat storage and access infrastructure.

The Sydney Harbour Boat Storage Strategy did not identify any specific targets for increase storage capacity for non-powered craft. However, based on the consultation feedback for the Regional Boating Plans, Chapter 8 identifies a number of areas across the region identified that would benefit from increased storage options for these types of vessels.

f. Roads and Maritime to develop campaign targeted at reducing “mooring minders”to help reduce mooring waiting lists

Initial analysis of submissions received on the Moorings Review Issues Paper reveals strong feedback on the need for additional measures to reduce the incidence of “mooring minders” on Sydney Harbour. While potential regulatory changes arising from the next stage of the Moorings


Review will likely assist in this regard, Roads and Maritime have identified a number of measures that can be progressed within the current regulatory framework including a review of compliance activities and administrative policies.

Other potential options being examined include providing funding for a free vessel disposal service. Anecdotal evidence suggests that a number of vessels that are perceived as “mooring minders” may actually be vessels that the owner can no longer afford to maintain but is reluctant to sell due to emotional attachment (eg previously owned by a deceased family member) and/or not knowing how to dispose of the vessel appropriately.

g. Explore the feasibility and benefits of alternate on-water storage methods thatincrease capacity while minimising the overall impact of boat storage.

As evidenced in busy waterways in other Regional Boating Plans, for example, Lake Macquarie and Pittwater, there are many bays around Sydney Harbour that are heavily cluttered by vessels on swing moorings. The Sydney Harbour Boat Storage Strategy and the Moorings Review Issues Paper both highlight the need to explore alternate mooring configurations and systems that increase the holding capacity of a mooring area while reducing the overall footprint. The MMC will undertake further research with a view to establishing a trial of alternate mooring arrangements somewhere in Sydney Harbour.

Part of the research will involve assessing the environmental impacts of consolidating swing moorings into a more concentrated storage method. These results will help inform the development of future reforms to planning controls on the harbour, which stakeholders report pose a major constraint to boat storage development.

h. Introduce measures to better manage the problems caused by trailers being stored on residential streets in many waterside suburbs around Sydney Harbour.

In 2013, MMC released a report from a Boat Trailer Working Group that was established to investigate options to better manage long-term boat trailer parking. The report (http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/publications-reports/boat-trailer-working-group-report) highlights a number of opportunities to reduce the incidence of long-term boat trailer parking on residential streets.

The Government’s response to the options identified in the Boat Trailer Working Group report is expected shortly. The response will include additional funding to assist in the establishment of dedicated long-term boat trailer parking facilities, as well as regulatory reforms to allow Councils to better manage the issue.

Figure 8 – Examples of existing boat storage issues

Private and commercial moorings in Middle Harbour at

Willoughby and Long Bays

Informal dinghies in Sydney Harbour


http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/publications-reports/boat-trailer-working-group-report

Alternative mooring system

Moorings in Mosman Bay, shell Cove, Careening Cove and Neutral Bay


7. Other issues raised duringconsultation

7.1 Overall analysis of ‘other’ issues

The objective of the Regional Boating Plans is to enhance the boating experience in NSW by identifying the priority actions to be taken to improve boating safety, access and storage in each region. These actions will be used to inform funding to be provided under a new boating infrastructure partnership program and to help shape future maritime policy decisions.

In consulting with stakeholders and the general public on the development of the Regional Boating Plan a number of other issues were identified that do not fit neatly into the categories of safety, access or storage. Nonetheless, they incorporate suggestions on how to improve the boating experience and the broader management of NSW’s waterways.

A snapshot of other issues raised for the Sydney Harbour region is provided at Section 7.2 below. Where relevant, these issues will be considered in the implementation of the actions identified in Chapters 4, 5 and 6. The other issues will also be raised with the relevant Government agency or Council that has primary responsibility for the issue.

It was clear from the consultation feedback and site visits that concerns about the impact of boating activity on riverbank erosion is the most significant ‘other’ boating issue in the region. This is discussed in detail at 7.3 below.

7.2 Snapshot of ‘other’ issues

Short descriptions of the other issues are listed below:

The major planning instrument for Sydney Harbour, the Sydney Regional EnvironmentalPlan (Sydney Harbour Catchment, 2005), was highlighted as a significant issue fornumerous stakeholders. Feedback was that the instrument needs to be updated as amatter of priority and the resulting plan should form the basis for planning in otherwaterways. There was strong feedback that failure to do so could inhibit the delivery of thestrategies and actions from this study, in particular those related to storage.

Similar to other regions but with more substantial feedback numbers, the lengthyprocessing time of development approvals for on-water amenities with waterfront accesswas seen as unnecessary and an impediment to progress.

Environmental impacts from boating are often perceived as having a significant impactwhen in many instances there are other catchment-wide causes that may have a more


substantial environmental consequence. For example, conflicting views exist on the effect of boating numbers on water quality.

There were mixed views about the impacts on seagrass from boating and numerousstakeholders suggested solutions such as more courtesy moorings to address some of theimpacts

Noise from vessels, in particular at boat ramps in residential areas, is considered by someas a nuisance.

Concerns were raised about the need for increased transparency and improved value formoney from revenue raised by recreational boating

Some stakeholders expressed the view that there should be limits on boating in theSydney Harbour region, while others viewed boating as an iconic part of the Harbour, anintegral part of supporting the boating industry and as a means of increasing tourismrevenue and adding to property values.

Need to ensure all types of recreational boating activities, whether motorised or passive cancontinue safely on the waterway.

Addressing the above issues, unless as part of a particular Action identified in Chapters 4, 5 and 6, is beyond the scope of project to be funded out of the new boating infrastructure partnership program; however they will be raised with the relevant Government agency or council that has primary responsibility for the issue.


8. Detailed opportunities to support actions

Summary of key actions

The waterways in the Sydney Harbour region are highly utilised and essential to public amenity, importantly of great economic value to the region. The current infrastructure requires modernisation, expansion and future proofing and is in need of investment to enhance the experience of the recreational boaters. Based on our key findings in Chapters 5 and 6, the region will most benefit from the following:

a. Work with councils on options to improve the capacity, condition and amenity of existing access facilities in the region

b. Identify strategic locations for new boating access infrastructure on Sydney Harbour, specifically reviewing opportunities to develop a new ramp aassociated facilities at Glebe Island/White Bay

nd

c. Work with councils on options to increase the capacity of trailer parking at boat ramps region-wide

d. Investigate opportunities to increase temporary access at popular recreational boating destinations, including opportunities to improve and promoteaccess to certain ferry wharves

e. Continue to work towards the growth targets identified in the Sydney Harbour Boat Storage Strategy

f. Roads and Maritime to develop campaign targeted at reducing “mooring minders” to help reduce waiting lists

g. Explore the feasibility and benefits of alternative on-water storage methods that increase capacity while minimising the overall impact of boat storage

h. Introduce measures to better manage the problems caused by trailers being stored on residential streets in many waterside suburbs around Sydney Harbour.


Key findings and actions have been identified for Access and Storage as summarised at the start of Chapters 4, 5 and 6 respectively. As discussed, these were derived through comprehensive analysis of stakeholder consultation (including BSOs, Councils, clubs and organisations, online survey respondents and other individuals), combined with the review of available data, literature and site visits. These key findings and actions, where appropriate, have been identified and supported by location specific opportunities as seen below in Table 7. For safety actions refer to the Sydney Harbour and its Tributaries Boating Safety Plan

Note: the potential solutions and opportunities seen in Table 7 are the final intended outcomes and are in no way definitive. It is the responsibility of the eventual proponent to undertake the relevant detailed feasibility reviews including planning consent requirements, design and cost estimates prior to undertaking the projects. The issues are not arranged in any order but are instead listed logically based on their locality.

Table 7 – Location based key issues, potential solutions and opportunities

Location Issue Category S St A

Issue Summary Description of Issue Potential Solutions and Opportunities

Quarantine Bay Capacity Insufficient/ inadequate public jetty and pontoon capacity to cater for temporary land access and safe waterway access

Review opportunities to install a public jetty and/or pontoon at Quarantine Bay or liaise with NPWS to review restrictions on public access to the existing jetty

Supports action D

Store Beach General access Waterway users anchoring in restricted areas threatening seagrasses and species

Investigate opportunities to provide courtesy moorings to act as a barrier to restricted anchoring zones

Supports actions D

Little Manly Cove

Condition

Trailer parking

Stakeholder feedback suggests boat ramp requires maintenance and provides difficult access

Limited car and/or trailer parking at access points

Review opportunities to upgrade Little Manly Cove boat ramp (Craig Avenue) and locations for alternate boat ramp and access facility

Limited opportunities to increase car and trailer parking capacity at Little Manly Cove boat ramp (Craig Avenue). Investigate opportunities for trailer parking at Carey Street car park

Supports actions A and C

Storage availability Limited available off-water storage facilities for clubs

Liaise with council to identify opportunities for off-water storage facilities for clubs

Supports action E

Amenity Insufficient shower and change room facilities Review opportunities to install showers and change rooms at Little Manly Cove

Supports action A




Capacity Insufficient/ inadequate public jetty or pontoon capacity to cater for temporary land access and safe waterway access

Review the feasibility of a new jetty and pontoon access facility at the existing boat ramp location (adjacent to existing pool structure at Little Manly Point)

Supports actions A

Manly Cove


Review the opportunities to provide a jetty and/or pontoon access facility and review use of wharf at Manly Sea Life Sanctuary

Supports action A and D

Moorings

Limited mooring capacity due to existing mooring minders, configuration and placement of swing moorings

Restricted navigation channels and access issues associated with configuration of moorings

Roads and Maritime to review opportunities to increase moorings capacity whilst minimising restriction of navigation channels and access issues

Supports action E

Clontarf Reserve

Trailer parking Limited car and trailer parking Review opportunities to formalise and expand trailer parking on Holmes Avenue

Supports action A and C

Passive Craft Storage No facilities provided for non-powered craft storage

Review opportunities to install dinghy and non-powered craft storage facilities at Clontarf Reserve (Holmes Avenue)

Supports action E

Moorings




Supports action E


BBP funding allocated to a Public Jetty and Pontoon at Clontarf Reserve. Monitor progress

Supports action D




Pickering Point Amenity Inadequate facilities provided

Review opportunities to provide facilities such as toilets, fresh water, lighting and garbage disposal facilities at Pickering Point as well as an upgrade to existing swimming enclosure structure (off Gurney Crescent)

Supports action A

Killarney Point Moorings

Limited mooring capacity due to possible mooring minders, configuration and placement of swing moorings



Supports action E and F

Roseville Bridge

Trailer parking

Amenity


Insufficient facilities such as sewage pump-outs and fresh water

Inadequate security in parking areas

Review opportunities to increase car and trailer parking capacity at Davidson Park boat ramp (Healey Way)

Review feasibility in providing sewage pump-out facilities and fresh water at Davidson Park boat ramp jetty/pontoon.


Sugarloaf Bay


Review the feasibility of installation of gangway and pontoon access from existing infrastructure at Wallis Road or alternate jetty and pontoon access

Supports action A

Northbridge Capacity

Insufficient/ inadequate public jetty or pontoon capacity to cater for temporary land access and safe waterway access

Review the feasibility of installation of jetty and pontoon access to service Sailors Bay and Long Bay mooring areas such as at Hallstrom Close

Supports action A




Capacity

Trailer parking

Access to boat ramp is at capacity during peak periods


Car and trailer parks being occupied by single cars

Review opportunities to widen Tunks Park boat ramp (Brothers Avenue) and increase capacity to cater for future demand

Refer to council to review trailer parking signage at Tunks Park boat ramp (Brothers Avenue) and enforce restrictions

Review opportunities to increase car and trailer parking capacity at Tunks Park boat ramp (Brothers Avenue)


Quakers Hat Bay

Condition

Stakeholder feedback suggests that access steps require maintenance / upgrade

Review opportunities to upgrade waterway access steps at Quakers Hat Bay

Supports action A

Condition

Stakeholder feedback suggests that jetty requires maintenance / upgrade

Review opportunities to upgrade Inkerman Street Jetty and access facilities including dinghy storage in Quakers Hat Bay

Supports action A

The Spit

Trailer parking

Limited available dry storage facilities for trailerable vessels

Explore opportunities to expand dry storage facilities at The Spit/Clontarf Reserve

Supports action E

Car parking Limited car and/or trailer parking at access points Review opportunities to expand parking capacity at Spit Reserve

Supports action C

Storage availability Limited capacity for storage of large vessels Review opportunities to expand capacity of on water storage for large vessels

Supports action E

Chinamans Beach General access Limited quantity and access to courtesy moorings

Investigate opportunities to provide further courtesy moorings at Chinamans Beach

Supports action D

Hunters Bay Moorings








General access Limited quantity and access to courtesy moorings

Investigate opportunities to provide further courtesy moorings at Hunters Bay

Supports action D

Balmoral

Condition

Amenity

Stakeholder feedback suggests that jetty requires maintenance/ upgrade

Inadequate lighting

No fish cleaning tables provided

Review opportunities to upgrade Balmoral Jetty

Review opportunities to improve lighting at Balmoral Jetty

Council to liaise with DPI to provide fish cleaning tables at Balmoral Jetty

Supports actions A

Chowder Bay Condition Stakeholder feedback suggests that jetty

requires maintenance/ upgrade

Review opportunities to upgrade Clifton Gardens Jetty and landing


Watsons Bay

General access Limited quantity and access to courtesy moorings

Investigate opportunities to provide further courtesy moorings at Watsons Bay

Supports action D

Capacity Insufficient facilities for safe waterway access and temporary land access to support and encourage boating and boating destinations

Review opportunities to provide boat tie-up or courtesy mooring options adjacent to swimming area


Parsley Bay

Condition Stakeholder feedback suggests that wharf requires maintenance/ upgrade

Review opportunities to upgrade Parsley Bay Wharf

Supports action A

Capacity Insufficient facilities for safe waterway access and temporary land access to support and encourage boating and boating destinations

Review opportunities to provide boat tie-up or courtesy mooring options adjacent to swimming area

Supports action D

Shark Bay General access Limited quantity and access to courtesy moorings

Investigate opportunities to provide further courtesy moorings at Nielsen Park

Supports action D

Mosman Amenity Insufficient access to fish cleaning tables Council to liaise with DPI to provide fish cleaning tables

Supports action A

Hermit Bay General access Limited quantity and access to courtesy moorings

Investigate opportunities to provide further courtesy moorings at Hermit Bay

Supports action D




Rose Bay

Capacity

Access to boat ramp and launching area does not meet demand

Explore opportunities to expand launching area and support installation of appropriate access facilities at Rose Bay (Woollahra Sailing Club)

Supports action D

General access

Limited quantity and access to courtesy moorings

Investigate opportunities to provide further courtesy moorings at Rose Bay

Supports action H

Capacity

Condition

Trailer parking

Amenity

Access to boat ramp is at capacity during peak times and is unlikely to meet future demand

Stakeholder feedback and analysis suggests that pontoon fenders require maintenance



Insufficient access to fish cleaning tables

Insufficient access to boat wash down facilities

TfNSW and Roads and Maritime to work with council to maintain pontoon facility

Review feasibility of the development of alternate boat ramp and pontoon access

Review opportunities to increase car and trailer parking capacity at Rose Bay boat ramp (Lyne Park)

Refer issue to council for enforcement of trailer parking

Council to liaise with DPI to provide fish cleaning tables

Review feasibility of providing boat wash down facilities at Rose Bay boat ramp (Lyne Park)


Darling Point General access Inadequate access to waterway

Review opportunities to improve access to the water for small non-powered craft at McKell Park

Supports action A

Rushcutters Bay Moorings








Car parking

Limited car parking facilities, especially for extended time

Review opportunities to increase the capacity of car parking by providing rear to curb or multi storey facilities. Council to review opportunities to extend timed car parking maximum durations

Supports action A

Disability access Limited options for waterway access infrastructure with disabled/less abled access facilities

Review opportunities to provide infrastructure with disabled access facilities at Rushcutters Bay

Supports action A

Storage availability Limited available hardstand storage facilities for sailing boats and other dry storage facilities

Review opportunities to expand dry storage capacity

Supports actions E

Capacity Insufficient/ inadequate public pontoon capacity to cater for safe waterway access

Review opportunities to increase capacity of public pontoon at Yarranabbe Park (New Beach Road)

Supports action A

Disability access Limited disabled car and bus parking facilities

Liaise with Council to review opportunities to increase the capacity of disabled car parks including possible opening of Sir David Martin Reserve for a designated disabled bus parking area

Supports action A

Capacity Inadequate access to waterway Review opportunities to provide two sets of access steps at Yarranabbe Park

Supports action A

Elizabeth Bay Moorings





Little Sirius Cove Moorings








Mosman Bay

Moorings





Capacity Insufficient/ inadequate public wharf capacity to cater for temporary land access and safe waterway access

Review opportunities to install public jetty or liaise with commercial operators or clubs to provide public access to existing infrastructure

Supports actions D

Woolloomooloo Bay Capacity

Insufficient/ inadequate public jetty or pontoon capacity to cater for temporary land access, safe waterway access and passenger pick up/set down

Review opportunities to install public jetty and/or pontoon on the western side of Woolloomooloo Bay and Walsh Bay

Supports actions D

Careening Cove Storage availability Limited on-water storage Review opportunities to expand on-water storage at Careening Cove

Supports action E

Farm Cove General access Limited quantity and access to courtesy moorings

Investigate opportunities to provide further courtesy moorings at Farm Cove

Supports action D

Berrys Bay

Amenity Insufficient access to sewage pump-out facilities Review opportunities to provide access to sewage pump-out facilities in Berrys Bay

Supports action D

Storage availability Limited available dry storage facilities

Limited on-water storage

Explore opportunities to provide dry storage facilities at Berrys Bay

Review opportunities to expand on-water storage at Berrys Bay

Supports Action E

Condition Insufficient/ inadequate public wharf and jetty capacity to cater for safe waterway access and temporary land access

Review opportunities to upgrade wharf at existing oil refinery site (off Balls Head Road)

Supports action F

Glebe Island Capacity Inadequate access to boat ramps in the area does not meet demand

TfNSW to liaise with relevant agencies to review feasibility of incorporating a boat ramp and pontoon access into development plans for The Bays Precinct

Supports action B




Blackwattle Bay

Capacity

Limited available dry storage facilities at clubs for passive crafts

Inappropriate facilities for sporting clubs

Insufficient access for passive craft sporting clubs

TfNSW to liaise with relevant agencies to review opportunities to provide appropriate facilities, storage and waterway access for multiple passive craft sporting clubs within the proposed development of The Bays Precinct

Review opportunities to improve existing facilities for Dragon Boating at Pyrmont

Supports actions A and E

General access Limited quantity and access to courtesy

moorings

Investigate opportunities to provide further courtesy moorings at Blackwattle Bay

Supports action D

Greenwich Condition Stakeholder feedback suggests that boat ramp requires maintenance/ upgrade and provides difficult access

Review opportunities to upgrade Manns Point boat ramp (Manns Place)

Supports actions A

Birchgrove West

Moorings





Condition Stakeholder feedback suggests that jetty and fendering system require maintenance/ upgrade

Review opportunities to upgrade Cove Street Jetty and provide easy access and launching of dinghies

Supports action A

Balmain (Elkington Park) General access

The level of the jetty and pontoon restricts use by non-powered craft due

Review opportunities to provide lower level pontoons at specific sections of public facilities to provide access for smaller vessels and passive craft

Supports action D

Iron Cove

Storage availability

Capacity

Limited available dry storage facilities at clubs for non-powered crafts

Insufficient access for non-powered craft sporting clubs

Explore opportunities to provide storage and access facilities for multiple passive craft sporting clubs within the Leichhardt Council area

Supports actions D and E

Capacity Insufficient pontoons for safe waterway access and temporary land access, especially for non-powered crafts during regular events

Review opportunities to provide additional jetties and pontoon access at Rodd Point and Leichhardt Park

Supports action A




Condition Stakeholder feedback suggests that jetty requires maintenance/ upgrade

Review opportunities to upgrade and reopen Thompson Street Jetty

Supports action A

Half Moon Bay Moorings





Snapper Island Moorings





Woolwich Condition Stakeholder feedback suggests that boat ramp is too shallow for appropriate access

Review opportunities to improve access to Margaret Street boat ramp (Woolwich) for all depths

Supports actions A

Drummoyne

Moorings





Trailer parking Limited car and/or trailer parking

Review opportunities to increase the capacity of car parking with a review of possible development of additional car parking facilities. Council to review opportunities to extend timed car parking maximum durations

Supports action C and H

Tarban Creek Moorings








Capacity

Insufficient/ inadequate public jetty and pontoon capacity to cater for temporary land access, safe waterway access and passenger pick up/set down

Review opportunities to install new public jetty and/or pontoon at Tarban Creek


Five Dock Bay

Capacity

Amenity

Trailer parking

Access to boat ramp is at capacity during peak periods

Insufficient access to facilities such as sewage pump-out, boat wash down and fish clean tables

Limited car and trailer parking


Council to liaise with DPI to review opportunities to provide fish cleaning tables, sewage pump-out facilities and boat wash down facilities

Refer issue to council to review trailer parking signage at Five Dock Bay boat ramp (Taplin Park) and enforce restrictions


General access Inadequate infrastructure for appropriate waterway access for dinghies and tenders

Review opportunities to provide pontoon or fixed launching facility for non-powered craft and dinghies

Supports actions A

Storage availability Limited availability of on-water storage

Review opportunities to expand on-water storage at Five Dock Bay

Supports actions E

Looking Glass Bay

General access Inadequate infrastructure for appropriate waterway access for dinghies and tenders

Review opportunities to provide pontoon or fixed launching facility for passive craft and dinghies in conjunction with dinghy storage facility at Meditation Park (Wharf Road)

Supports actions A and E

Condition Stakeholder feedback suggests that jetty requires maintenance/ upgrade

Council have plans to upgrade wharf at Banjo Paterson Park. Monitor progress.

Supports action A

Abbotsford Point Wash Waterway users, particularly commercial and ferry operators create substantial wash that poses risk to passive waterway users

TfNSW and Roads and Maritime to review current education, communication and compliance campaigns as well as reviewing opportunities for innovative solutions including time based restrictions

Supports action A




Amenity Inadequate toilet and change room facilities Review opportunities to upgrade toilets and install change rooms at Battersea Park

Supports actions A

Car parking Limited car parking for waterway users

Review opportunities to increase capacity of car parking facilities at Abbotsford Point

Supports action A

Moorings




Supports action F

Condition

Capacity

Inadequate condition and capacity of pontoon access

Review opportunities for the pontoon upgrades

Supports actions A

Condition

Capacity

Access to ramp and access facilities for launching of rowing boats is insufficient and slippery

Review opportunities to enhance waterway access for clubs, especially where public access is also encouraged, such as at Battersea Park (Sydney Women's Rowing Club)

Supports actions A

Hen and Chicken Bay

Moorings





Capacity Insufficient pontoons for safe waterway access and temporary land access, especially for non-powered craft during regular events

Review opportunities to provide additional pontoon access at Bayview Park for non-powered craft users

Supports actions A




Cabarita Point Trailer parking



Review opportunities to increase car and trailer parking capacity at Cabarita boat ramp (Cabarita Park)

Refer to council to review trailer parking signage at Cabarita boat ramp (Cabarita Park) and enforce restrictions

Supports action C

Kendall Bay Capacity Limited waterway access facilities between Rhodes and Cabarita

Review opportunities for development of new boat ramp and access facilities at Kendall Bay, Fairmile Cove or Majors Bay

Supports action D

Kissing Point

Trailer parking Limited car and/or trailer parking at access points

Review opportunities to increase car and trailer parking capacity at Kissing Point boat ramp (Kissing Point Park)

Supports action C

Capacity Insufficient public pontoon facilities for temporary land access and safe waterway access

Review opportunities to install on ramp pontoon at Kissing Point boat ramp (Kissing Point Park)

Supports action A

Condition Stakeholder feedback suggests that pontoon off Kissing Point Park Jetty requires maintenance/ upgrade

Review opportunities to upgrade pontoon off Kissing Point Park Jetty

Supports actions A

Dinghy Access Erosion of beach impacts on access for Sailing Club launch dinghies.

Investigate measures to resolve erosion issue and improve access from beach.

Supports actions A

Wentworth Point

Storage availability Limited available dry storage facilities

Limited availability of on-water storage

Incorporate on and off-water storage capacity as part of future redevelopment of Wentworth Point

Supports actions E

Ermington Bay Amenity Insufficient boat wash down facilities

Review feasibility of providing boat wash down facilities at Ermington boat ramp (Wharf Road)

Supports action A




Armoury Bay Capacity Insufficient/ inadequate public pontoon capacity to cater for temporary land access and safe waterway access

Review opportunities to upgrade/provide jetty and pontoon access at The Armoury (Newington)

Supports actions D

Silverwater Bridge Condition

Boat ramp provides difficult access at low tide due to sediment and debris build-up

Review opportunities to upgrade Silverwater boat ramp (Silverwater Road) for improved access at low tide

Supports action A

Woodford Bay

Condition Timber access facility is too short for access at low tides

Review opportunities to extend Northwood access facility (Kelly's Esplanade) for better waterway access at low tides

Supports action A

Moorings





Alexandra Bay Condition Stakeholder feedback suggests that Alexandra Street Wharf requires maintenance/ upgrade

Review opportunities to upgrade Alexandra Street Wharf


Burns Bay Capacity

Insufficient/ inadequate public pontoon facility capacity to cater for temporary land access and safe waterway access

BBP funding allocated for a new pontoon at Burns Bay boat ramp (Burns Bay Reserve). Monitor progress.

Supports action A

North Harbour in general

Capacity Capacity of boat ramps does not meet demand

Investigate opportunities to develop alternate boat ramp and associated access facilities

Supports action B

Trailer parking On street storage of trailered boats is restricted

and restricts car parking

Review opportunities to provide dry storage facilities for trailered vessels at strategic locations

Supports action H

Middle Harbour in general Dinghy storage

Inadequate storage facilities provided for dinghy storage

Review opportunities to install dinghy and non-powered craft storage facilities at strategic locations throughout Middle Harbour. Stakeholder feedback raised the following potential locations: Clontarf Reserve, Seaforth Bluff, Powder Hulk Bay, Pickering Point, Killarney Point, Roseville Bridge, Long Bay, Beauty Point, Chinamans Beach




Supports action E

Capacity Capacity of boat ramps is inadequate to meet demand


Supports action B

Outer Harbour in general

Dinghy storage Inadequate storage facilities provided for dinghy storage

Review opportunities to install dinghy and non-powered craft storage facilities at strategic locations throughout the Outer Harbour. Stakeholder feedback raised the following potential locations: Parsley Bay, Hunters Bay, Rose Bay, Rushcutters Bay, Little Sirius Cove, Blackburn Cove, Double Bay, Darling Point, Elizabeth Bay, Shell Cove, Neutral Bay

Supports action E

Amenity Insufficient access to sewage pump-out facilities Review strategic locations to provide access to sewage pump-out facilities

Supports actions A

Capacity Insufficient/ inadequate public access to jetties and pontoons for safe waterway access and temporary land access

Review opportunities to install pontoon access at strategic locations

Supports action A

Capacity Capacity of boat ramps does not meet demand


Supports action B

Inner Harbour in general


Review opportunities to install dinghy and passive craft storage facilities at strategic locations throughout the Inner Harbour. Stakeholder feedback raised the following potential locations: Berrys Bay, Birchgrove, Rozelle Bay, Snails Bay, Balls Head Bay

Supports action E

Capacity Capacity of boat ramps does not meet demand TfNSW to liaise with relevant agencies to investigate opportunities to provide an

alternate access facility within the Bays Precinct development plans

Supports action B




Parramatta River in general


Review opportunities to install dinghy and non-powered craft storage facilities at strategic locations throughout the Parramatta River. Stakeholder feedback raised the following potential locations: Iron Cove, Five Dock Bay, Tarban Creek, Abbotsford Bay, Looking Glass Bay, Canada Bay, Brays Bay, Shepherds Bay, Meadowbank

Supports action E

Lane Cove River in general Dinghy storage

Inadequate storage facilities provided for dinghy storage

Review opportunities to install dinghy and non-powered craft storage facilities at strategic locations throughout the Parramatta River. Stakeholder feedback raised the following potential locations: Greenwich and Gore Creek

Supports action E

Region-wide

Capacity

General access

Insufficient access to public wharves and jetties as well as courtesy moorings for safe waterway access and temporary land access and encourage boating destinations

Review opportunities to provide boat tie-up options at seawalls with associated access steps and jetties and/or pontoons

In conjunction with access jetties and pontoons, investigate opportunities to provide further courtesy moorings at boating destinations and at harbour islands

Supports actions A and D

Storage availability

Limited availability of on-water storage, including for temporary visiting vessels

Review opportunities to expand on-water storage

Supports actions E

Disability access Insufficient infrastructure that provides appropriate access for disabled/less abled

Review opportunities to incorporate disabled access facilities at strategic access locations

Supports action A




Capacity Access capacity at boat ramps does not meet demand

Investigate opportunities to provide boat ramps and associated access facilities at strategic locations across the region

Supports action B

Moorings Limitations placed on the time period that a vessel can be away from its mooring restricts storage options for cruising vessels

In collaboration with the outcomes of the Moorings Review Issues Paper, review the regulations around mooring use

Supports action E

Trailer parking

Trailered boats are stored on streets restricting parking by other users

Stakeholder feedback suggests on street storage of trailered boats is too restricted in some areas

Government response to recommendations put forward by the Boat Trailer Working Group expected to be announced shortly, including funding for dedicated off-street boat trailer parking facilities.

Supports actions H


9. References 1. AECOM, (2010), Parramatta River Estuary – Process Study, Prepared for Parramatta

River Estuary Committee.

2. Applied Ecology Pty Ltd, (2012), Woodford Bay – Dinghy Rack Project – Concept Plan Design Report, Prepared for Lane Cove Council.

3. Australian Bureau of Statistics (2011), 2011 Census QuickStats, Australian Bureau of Statistics, Canberra, viewed 18 February 2014, <http://www.censusdata.abs.gov.au/census_services/getproduct/census/2011/quickstat/L GA14650?opendocument&navpos=220>

4. BMT WBM, (2013), Lane Cove River Coastal Zone Management Plan, Prepared for Lane Cove River Estuary Management Committee.

5. Environment & Heritage, (2012), Estuaries of NSW: Physical characteristics, tidal surveys and hydrographic surveys, NSW Government, viewed 11 June 2014, <http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/estuaries/list.htm>

6. Gondwana Consulting and Associates, (2009), Lane Cove River Estuary – Recreational Facilities Needs Study, Report for Lane Cove City Council, Hunters Hill Council, City of Ryde and Willoughby City Council.

7. Manly Council, (2011), Maritime Infrastructure and Boat Storage in Manly LGA, Final Draft, Manly Council.

8. NSW Maritime (2010), NSW Boat Ownership and Storage Report, July 2010, NSW Government

9. NSW Office of Water, (2013), Basins and Catchments, NSW Department of Primary Industries, viewed 11 June 2014, <http://www.water.nsw.gov.au/Watermanagement/catchments/default.aspx>

10. Office of Boating Safety and Maritime Affairs (OBSMA), (2012), Boating Safety Plan November 2012: Botany Bay | Georges River | Woronora River | Cooks River, NSW Government, Transport Maritime

11. Office of Boating Safety and Maritime Affairs (OBSMA), (2013), Sydney Harbour and its Tributaries – Draft Boating Safety Plan, NSW Government, Transport Maritime

12. Office of Environment and Heritage, (2012), Plan of Management – Sydney Harbour National Park, NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service

13. Transport for NSW, (2011), Report on Sydney Harbour Speed Review, NSW Government

14. Transport for NSW, (2013), Sydney Harbour Boat Storage Strategy, NSW Government.

Transport for NSW - Regional Boating Plan, 21/23122

http://www.water.nsw.gov.au/Water

http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/estuaries/list.htm

http://www.censusdata.abs.gov.au/census_services/getproduct/census/2011/quickstat/L

Appendices


Appendix A – Details of Stakeholder Consultation In addition to all relevant internal stakeholders, the following external stakeholders were formally consulted as part of the development of the Regional Boating Plans across the State. Some representative groups have a seat on a related advisory committee and may have been consulted through that process.

Appendix A – Table 1 – External stakeholders consulted – State-wide level


Australian Jet Sports Boating Association

Australian Power Boat Association

Boat Owners Association NSW

Boating Industry Association NSW

Coastal Cruising Club of Australia

Commercial Vessel Advisory Group

Commercial Vessels Association NSW

Department of Planning and Environment

Department of Primary Industries (Fisheries)

Dragon Boats NSW

Fishing Industry Advisory Group

Marina Association NSW

Marine Estate Management Authority

Marine Rescue NSW

Marine Teachers Association of NSW

Maritime Advisory Council

Maritime Safety Training NSW

Ministerial Fisheries Advisory Council

National Parks and Wildlife Service

NSW Canoe

NSW Fishing Industry Training Committee

NSW Police Force (Marine Area Command)

NSW Rowing Association



NSW Trade and Investment (Crown Lands)

NSW Water Ski Federation

NSW Wavesailing (as part of NSW Water Ski Federation)

Paddle NSW

Recreational Fishing Alliance of NSW

Recreational Vessel Advisory

Rowing NSW

Sailability NSW

Scuba Clubs Association of NSW

Surf Life Saving NSW

Yachting NSW


Appendix B – Maps

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