Lake Macquarie boaties have a bigger, safer and more accessible way to enjoy Lake Macquarie, with a new 71-metre public wharf now open at Belmont.
The Minns Labor Government has invested $1.6 million through the Boating Infrastructure for Communities Program to help deliver the new wharf in partnership with Lake Macquarie City Council.
10 metres longer and 2.4 metres wider than the timber wharf that served the community for around 50 years, the new structure provides more room for recreational and commercial vessels to pull alongside and safely access the foreshore.
It also includes a new marine waste pump-out facility, giving boat owners a safe and responsible way to dispose of waste while helping protect the health of Lake Macquarie.
More than 20,000 vessels are registered across the Lake Macquarie area, making modern, safe and reliable boating infrastructure essential for locals, businesses and visitors.
The new wharf has been built to withstand the demands of a busy marine environment. The wharf features steel piles, reinforced concrete supports, durable decking, marine-grade fixings and protective vessel fenders.
A new concrete abutment provides a seamless connection between the wharf and the existing foreshore pathway.
The opening follows the announcement of a $7.5 million commitment from the Minns Labor Government to repair and reopen the Swansea Seawall at Belmont Street.
Minister for the Hunter and Member for Swansea Yasmin Catley said:
"Lake Macquarie is made for days on the water and now Belmont Street has a wharf to match.
"We have more than 20,000 boats registered locally, meaning this is infrastructure our communities use every day.
"Just as importantly, the new pump-out facility will help boaties do the right thing and keep our magnificent lake clean.
"The old timber wharf served boaties well for around half a century. This replacement is bigger, better, stronger and safer."
Minister for Roads and Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said:
"The Minns Labor Government is investing in modern boating infrastructure that makes our waterways safer, more accessible and more enjoyable.
"This new wharf is a significant improvement for the Belmont community, replacing an ageing structure with a larger, stronger and more accessible facility.
"With more than 20,000 vessels registered across Lake Macquarie, infrastructure like this is essential to support the community's growing use of the lake.
"The new marine waste pump-out facility will also help protect this beautiful waterway so it can continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.
"This is a great example of the NSW Government and Lake Macquarie City Council working together to deliver practical improvements for local communities."
Mayor of Lake Macquarie City Council Adam Shultz said:
"Boating is one of Lake Macquarie's most beloved hobbies, so it's critical we continue to deliver modern, accessible infrastructure that makes it easy for our community to get out on the water and do what they love.
"This new wharf will serve the boating community, as well as locals and visitors, for many years to come, offering a purpose-built place to enjoy the lake and take in the spectacular scenery."
Transport for NSW Maritime Executive Director Nicole Watts said:
"The Boating Infrastructure for Communities Program supports projects that make our waterways safer, more accessible and more enjoyable.
"The new Belmont wharf provides an improved facility for vessels entering and leaving the lake, as well as those stopping temporarily.
"Its durable design will help ensure the wharf can continue serving the community for many years to come.
"The addition of a marine waste pump-out facility also delivers an important environmental benefit, helping waterway users protect Lake Macquarie."
