28 March, 2006

Oyster Leases in Hardys Bay

Following community pressure over an 18 month period, Fisheries and Gosford City Council approved the cleaning of the foreshore area along Hardys Bay Parade and work commenced in October 2005.

Oyster farmers  have worked in with the community to remove debris from the derelict leases.

The old tile and rock culture on the entire foreshore of Hardys Bay Parade has been surrendered by the pearl farmers to Fisheries (now Dept of Primary Industries).

Stage 1 removal of roofing tiles, concrete and rocks has been completed on the northern side of the extension wharf in Hardys Bay Parade.

Over 35 tons of debris has been removed and relocated to create a sea wall in the cul-de-sac near the extension wharf.

What’s next?

– May 2006, removal of oyster fences between the extension wharf and the northern wharf.

– Southern side of the extension wharf - reducing from 4 lines to 1 line and removal of fence leaving only the black floating buoys.  This remaining line with Akoya pearls will be removed when a more suitable area is obtained.  This could be a year or so.

– To remove the remaining derelict tiles and rocks another permit has to be obtained through Dept of Primary Industries and Gosford City Council.  Approval for the placement of debris to backfill Hardys Bay Parade prior to the final stages 2 and 3 of the road upgrade by Council.

– Ian Crisp has been trying to obtain funding for the clean-up of abandoned sections of oyster leases in the outer bar in Hardys Bay.  Tim Gipple, Dept Primary Industries has advised that funds were not available at the time.

– Representation from Hardys Bay Residents Group and Ian Crisp to meet with local bodies to explore avenues for funding the clean-up of abandoned outer bar leases.

Further information contact:

Terry Feltham

Ph: 4360 1633