It’s hoped the closures at Preddys Wharf will fit around the holiday season. Photo: Karyn Starmer.
Boaters and fishers are losing access to the popular Preddys Wharf, but the local council has promised it won’t clash with the holiday season.
Eurobodalla Shire Council is replacing the wharf and boat ramp at Moruya Heads.
In an environmental review for the project, its condition was described as a safety risk for user groups.
“Currently, the timber boards are rotting, [and] this creates a risk of tripping and other incidents as people navigate around the wharf,” the report says.
“The grant will allow for the replacement of the existing wharf and pontoon structure and renewal of the boat ramp.”
While the council considered other approaches such as keeping the existing wharf or removing it, it was decided a full replacement was the best approach.
The project includes the replacement of the boat ramp, a relocated gangway, installation of a new L-shaped pontoon and a clearly defined berth for Marine Rescue operations.
There will also be a dedicated kayak launch platform and lighting upgrades.
But the fix will be lengthy as the upgrade works are set to last from this month until March 2027.
The wharf will see staged closures to allow for the works.
A council spokesperson confirmed the works are on track to start later this month.
“The first stage runs mid-October to mid-December 2026 to rebuild the boat ramp before Christmas,” they said.
“Work pauses over the summer school holidays so the facility is open during this high-demand period.”
During the initial closure, the boat ramp, wharf and fish cleaning table will be closed for use.
Half the car parking spaces will also be lost.
However, the fishing platform and public toilets will remain open.
A visualisation of what the finished project is expected to look like. Image: Eurobodalla Shire Council.
A second closure, which will allow for the installation of a new floating pontoon, will take place in February 2027.
The spokesperson did not give specific dates for the closures.
Marine Rescue zone commander Mike Hammond expected the local unit would receive further details in the coming days around what the initial closure means for their operations.
He confirmed the unit will still have access to the wharf.
“We know from experience that it’s not an exact science,” he said of the closure’s start date.
“It’s so dependent on conditions. … Anyone that’s built a house knows you can’t predict what’s going to happen. The marine environment is harder again.”
He said the existing wharf was “showing its age”, with the planned replacement able to accommodate a larger vessel and give safer access to the unit’s volunteers.
The council spokesperson said boaters would need to launch from other sites during the closures.
“There may be some temporary changes onsite to progress work, for example access for construction vehicles, equipment and materials,” he said.
Region contacted Transport for NSW with questions about changes to access, but was directed to the council.
The project has a $714,000 price tag, which is being covered by a NSW Government grant and a council contribution.
