Woollamia boat ramp upgrade

The recent upgrade of Woollamia boat ramp and wharf precinct by Shoalhaven council has led to more space not only for launching a boat, but also for some marine residents of Currambene Creek.

Acting Manager of Jervis Bay Marine Park, Sam Davis, said Shoalhaven Council were open to working with her to make the new facilities multi-purpose.

“When I saw the original plans, I saw an opportunity for adapting the rock revetment along the site into an eco-friendly structure in the habitat protection zone of the marine park, with special niche habitat for some threatened species such as black rock cod,” she said.

Ms Davis worked with council to design a marine habitat that has slots, gaps and caves as part of its structure.

“We now have high density housing for fish, with safe places for marine creatures at high and low tide.

“Every five metres there are purpose-built caves and overhangs to provide shelter not only for the rock cod but many other marine species that live here.

Before the upgrade, the area for people to enjoy the creek, either sitting on the bank or fishing, was restricted.  The new retaining walls, made from sandstone, have increased the area for people to enjoy Woollamia boat ramp, which is one of the most popular boat ramps in the Shoalhaven.

“Shoalhaven council sent the sandstone to be independently tested to make sure it was the right fit for what was needed,” Ms Davis said.

She said that retaining walls in other popular areas, including Barrangaroo in Sydney, has visual appeal and also the added benefit of being designed with marine life in mind.

“The Woollamia precinct upgrade took two years from design to implementation, and Shoalhaven council has made sure the new facilities will last.”

These facilities are a great example of the benefits gained when councils work with marine experts to benefit everyone’s enjoyment of the marine estate.

Read more marine estate news.