Hazardous river conditions due to high water levels and flooding
Where
When
Navigation warning
Transport for NSW advise vessel operators that the Murray River and its tributaries, including the Edward River, are currently experiencing high water levels, and in some areas, flood conditions.
Vessel operators using these waters are advised to exercise extreme caution when navigating, travel at a safe speed and keep a proper lookout. Known hazards include signage and navigation aids used to define channels and mark hazards may have been washed away and/or be out of position, strong currents, submerged hazards and floating debris.
Waterway infrastructure such as weirs and locks, overhead electrical crossings, bridges, moored vessels and other structures may pose a heightened risk to navigation as a result of the flood water conditions.
Vessel owners are encouraged to seek appropriate alternate mooring locations if required and continue to assess and monitor river conditions.
This navigation warning remains in place until further notice.
The status of the river level can be monitored through the River Murray system website.
Navigation Advice
Vessel operators are also instructed to significantly minimise vessel wash to protect riverbanks and adjacent properties, and reminded of the legislative provisions in relation to the creation of wash caused by the operation of vessels pursuant to Clause 11(2) of the Marine Safety Regulation 2016 which provides:
The operator of a vessel must not cause wash that damages or impacts unreasonably on:
- any bank, shore or waterside structure, or
- any other vessel, including a vessel that is moored.
- any construction or other works in progress
- any dredge or floating plant
Directions
Transport for NSW advises that in relation to these waterways:
- Persons in the vicinity of these waterways must comply with any directions given by any Boating Safety Officer or Police Officer in relation to marine safety. Failure to comply with any such direction is an offence (Marine Safety Act 1998, s.15A - Maximum Penalty $3,300.00).
Maps and charts affected
To see the area affected, refer to the Boating maps page.
- Transport for NSW Boating Maps – 19, 20, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29
Contact Transport for NSW information line
For further information concerning this navigation advice, please contact the Transport for NSW information line on:
Phone: 13 12 36
Monday - Friday
8:30am - 5:30pm
Saturday - Sunday
8:30am - 4:30pm