The boat ramp and jetty project will refresh a tired recreational area south of Eden. Photo: Bega Valley Shire Council.
Accessibility improvements are being planned for a “much-loved” Far South Coast boat ramp and jetty, but it’s unclear what exactly will change.
Bega Valley Shire Council (BVSC) has dived into consultation for planned upgrades to Quarantine Bay, a sheltered area of Twofold Bay.
BVSC planning and projects coordinator Sam Stevenson said the recently launched feedback would guide the final design of the works.
“We are seeking feedback to help us understand how the site is used, what is important to different users, and what should be considered as the project moves through its design stages,” Mr Stevenson said.
The project is expected to include the replacement (and relocation) of amenities, improvements to fishing platform access and accessible pathways.
Also, concrete repairs will be made to the surrounding infrastructure.
The project’s page on the council’s website says the upgrades will make Quarantine Bay safer and easier to access.
“It is recognised as a key investment location under the Transport for NSW Maritime Infrastructure Plan and has been identified as a priority for funding. The site’s amenities are ageing and do not meet modern accessibility standards.
“This project will deliver a significant upgrade to the area, improving access, safety and usability for a wide range of community groups.”
BVSC is set to engage directly with key stakeholder groups throughout the consultation period, while an online survey is also open until later this month.
The council’s website says Quarantine Bay is used by several clubs and is popular among the region’s visitors.
“There is strong interest from local boating clubs to expand their membership and host more events and competitions once the upgrade is complete,” it says.
Nearby Eden is identified in Transport for NSW’s Maritime Infrastructure Plan, making it one of 14 strategic sites.
The latest version of the plan available on Transport for NSW’s website flags the need to ensure there is enough on-water storage for boaters.
The suitability of vessel maintenance and fuel facilities for local commercial fishers and the development of quality public amenities are also put forward as priorities.
“While tourism and recreational boating has relatively less significance for the region, there is an opportunity to grow both, with an emphasis on tourism, to capitalise on the significant investment in maritime infrastructure planned and underway at Eden,” the document says.
According to the council’s website, the project’s construction is expected to be completed by late 2028, after approvals are given in 2026.
Mr Stevenson encouraged all users to have their say about what they envisaged for the site.
“Quarantine Bay is a much-loved location for locals and visitors alike,” he said.
“We want to improve accessibility, safety and overall usability while maintaining the character and appeal of the area.”
The work is being jointly funded through a $527,000 grant from the NSW Boating Infrastructure for Communities program and a BVSC contribution.
To have a say on what they want in the project design, members of the public can complete an online survey through the council’s website until 11:45 pm on 24 March.
