Ettalong Channel dredging
to begin in coming weeks
The Ettalong Channel will be dredged in coming weeks, with the arrival of the dredge vessel planned for 24 May (subject to weather) and due to take approximately four weeks to complete.
Liesl Tesch, Member for Gosford, at Ettalong Beach Ferry Wharf.
14 May 2025
AS a result of recent sand build-up in the channel following recent swell events, Palm Beach to Ettalong & Wagstaffe ferry services has now been diverted to Patonga.
The diversion timetable to Patonga is now in place, and Transport for NSW has established a free alternative transport service, which commenced as from Friday 9 May.
Minister for Roads and Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said, “We’re committed to maintaining safe and reliable transport links for the Central Coast community. This dredging work is essential to restore safe navigation through the Ettalong Channel.
“While we understand the inconvenience to our passengers, safety is our top priority. We appreciate everyone’s patience as we work to restore normal ferry services.”
Alternative transport arrangements:
A free shuttle ferry service between Wagstaffe and Ettalong for passengers to meet the free shuttle bus at Ettalong.
A free shuttle bus service, between Ettalong and Patonga, to meet the Palm Beach to Patonga ferries.
The shuttle bus will leave approximately 30 minutes prior to the Palm Beach ferry departure from Patonga Wharf.
*Full timetable will be available shortly.
Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said, “The NSW Government continues to have a proactive approach to dredging of the Ettalong Channel, with planned dredging work scheduled following recent sand build up in the channel.
“To minimise disruption, we have again arranged free shuttle bus and ferry services to ensure passengers can continue their journeys with minimal delay.
“These temporary changes are a small step toward a long-term dredging plan. I am thrilled to see the NSW Government investing in the infrastructure our region depends on.
“We thank passengers for their patience and encourage them to allow extra travel time for their journeys.”
This alternative transport services will be in place for approximately six weeks, until the dredging work is finished in late June. The community will be advised when normal services resume.
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