Summary
Location: Boonerah Point, Mount Warrigal
Timeframe: April 2026 - June 2029
Current project stage: Environmental and Geotechnical Investigations
About the Project:
This project focuses on the complete replacement of the Boonerah Point Reserve Jetty with a new structure. The existing jetty is aging and no longer the best long‑term option. Replacing it will provide a safer, more reliable jetty for the community.
The new jetty will be designed using modern standards and materials so people can continue to safely access and enjoy the area for recreational activities into the future.
As part of the Boonerah Point Jetty Renewal Project, a coordinated program of environmental and geotechnical investigations is required to inform both the Review of Environmental Factors (REF) and the detailed design of the proposed jetty replacement at Boonerah Point Jetty.
Timeline
Aquiatic Ecology Assessment
Monday 20 April 2026
Geotechnical and Contamination investigations
Thursday 23 April 2026
Relevant strategies or plans
Community Strategic Plan:
- 1.2.1 Inclusive, accessible and safe spaces for our entire community
- 1.2.2 Promote healthy living and high-quality public spaces that are well maintained and activated
- 1.2.3 Construct and upgrade buildings and infrastructure that meet current and future community needs
- 2.1.1 Our bushland, coast and waterways are protected to ensure safe and sustainable use for present and future generations
- 2.1.4 Our waste is managed as a valuable resource and the environmental impacts are minimised.
FAQs
What is the purpose of these investigation works?
These works are being done to collect information that will help Council plan and design a possible replacement of Boonerah Point Jetty.
The investigations will:
- Check what plants and animals live in and around the water
- Study the ground and rock under the jetty to understand how stable it is
- Test sediment in the lake to check for contamination and make sure it can be handled safely
This information is needed to make sure the project meets environmental laws and is designed safely.
What type of work will be carried out on and around the jetty?
Borehole Drilling: Narrow holes will be drilled into the rock surface within 30m of the foreshore.
In-situ Testing: Tests will be undertaken to determine the depth to the bedrock layer and assess soil conditions.
Sediment Sampling: Sediment samples will be collected using hand tools from a kayak and / or wading out to the sampling location from rock shelf. Samples will be collected from five locations positioned around the western half of the jetty
Aquatic Ecology and Marine Habitat Assessment: A field survey will be undertaken over one day using a combination of walking, wading and Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV). The survey will utilise an underwater drone ROV to access and obtain footage in deep water not accessible by wading.
When will the investigation works take place and how long will they last?
Aquatic Ecology Assessments will take place on Monday 20 April and the jetty is expected to remain open during this time.
The jetty will be closed from 7am to 6pm on Thursday 24 April to allow for Geotechnical and Contamination investigations.
Will there be any noise or environmental impacts during the investigation works?
Some noise my be experienced by residents and the local area while the borehole drilling is taking place. However, the noise will be occasional and is not expected to be disruptive.
Additionally, all works will take place within standard construction hours (7am to 6pm on weekdays).
How will pedestrian safety be ensured during the investigation works?
The drilling equipment will be unloaded in a safe area away from traffic and moved to the work site via the footpath. While the equipment is being moved, trained staff will act as spotters to guide movements and keep pedestrians at a safe distance.
Once work begins, safety barriers and clearly marked restricted areas will be put in place so members of the public cannot enter work zones.
Will there be any impacts to marine life or water quality during the works?
No impacts to marine life or water quality are expected from these investigation works. Council has prepared a Minor Works environmental assessment to review the impacts of the investigations.
A full environmental assessment will be completed later, once the detailed design of the new jetty is finished.
An aquatic ecology assessment will be completed to assess what is in area, determine the likelihood of threatened species and provide mitigation measures for the renewal of the jetty.