Williams River Bank Stabilisation Works - Temporary 4 knot speed restriction zone

When

• Monday, 23 September 2024 until Friday, 20 December 2024

The works

Vessel operators are advised that Hunter Water Corporation will be undertaking riverbank stabilisation works on the navigable waters of the Williams River approximately 3 km downstream of the Rifle Street boat ramp, at Clarence Town from Monday, 23 September 2024 to Friday, 20 December 2024.

The works involve the mobilisation and placement of barges, work vessels, machinery and equipment, including land and water based heavy lifting equipment and vessel operations on the waterway.

Special restrictions

Due to the potential to affect the safety of navigation, Transport for NSW has imposed temporary powered vessel operating restrictions pursuant to section 11(1) of the Marine Safety Act 1998.

A temporary 4 knot speed restriction zone (‘the Zone’) will be established on the navigable waters of the Williams River, comprising the entire width of the river from approximately 60 metres upstream to approximately 60 metres downstream of the works. The Zone will remain in force for the duration of the works and be patrolled by authorised officers.

The Zone will be clearly marked by localised signage and yellow special mark aqua buoys.

Due to the nature of the works being conducted vessel operators and persons in the vicinity of the works should keep a proper lookout, comply with all buoyage and signage, exercise caution and minimise wash when navigating in the vicinity of the works.

Directions

Transport for NSW advises:

• Vessel operators within the Zone must comply with the 4 knot speed limit as indicated by the signage. Failure to comply with any such notice is an offence under the Marine Safety Act 1998, s.11(4)(b) - Maximum Penalty $1,100.
• Vessels are required to maintain a safe distance and speed from the works and operators are reminded that the production of wash which impacts unreasonably on the works is an offence (Marine Safety Regulation 2016 – clause 11(2) - Maximum Penalty $5,500.00).

Maps and charts affected

To see the area affected, refer to: 

• Transport for NSW Boating Map – 7C (PDF 2.63MB)