Port MacDonnell Dredging Project 2022

Port MacDonnell requires a major dredging campaign to remove significant accumulation of sandy materials at the harbor entrance and mooring grounds as well as seaweed (wrack) removal from the channel. The wrack present in the channel is mostly green, mobile and of a low density, however, can be extracted and separated from the water. Wrack dredged from the channel will be screened, drained, and transported to the adjacent western beach or offsite. Sand dredged from the harbor entrance will be deposited for replenishment of sandy beaches located east of the harbor area.

Dredging will ensure the safe and continuing access for those using the Port MacDonnell Harbor, boat ramp and mooring grounds.

Works will be undertaken between late March 2022 and July 2022 (weather permitting) as this is a quieter period on the water. During this time the Harbor entrance will still be accessible but boats using the boat haven entrance are advised to use caution and follow the 4-knot speed limit that applies and maintain a safe speed within 100m of the dredge and discharge pipelines. The safe speed recommended is 4 knots.

The boat ramp will be limited to one lane through to approximately the end of April 2022. After this time, two lanes are expected to be available until the completion of the works. This will also assist in reducing disruption to the tuna festival in mid-May. Please allow extra time to launch your boat or choose an alternative boat ramp to launch.

To ensure the dredging works are completed as quickly as possible they may be undertaken at any time during the April to July period, however there are strict guidelines for noise levels between 10 pm and 7 am to ensure we minimise the impact on local residents

Department for Infrastructure and Transport (DIT) and Council will provide updates on the works as they progress and we thank you for your patience during this time.

UPDATE: It is expected full access to the harbor will be available early August and the Port MacDonnell community will see completion of remediation works by late September (weather permitting).

Consultation Opportunities

• To book a call back from the project team / contractor to ask any further questions about the dredging works, please head to the DIT website (www.dit.sa.gov.au/portmacdredging).
• Submit a question or complete the feedback form below.
• Visit the Port MacDonnell Community Complex (5/7 Charles St Port MacDonnell) to complete and submit a hard copy feedback form.