In May, the Hon. David Elliott MP – Minister for Transport advised Ms Yasmin Catley MP - Member for Swansea that sand dredged from upcoming dredging campaigns would be transferred to Blacksmiths Beach to renourish the beach.

Now, the Government has stated that the sand dredged early next year will not be immediately transported to the beach.

Instead, it will be stockpiled on the sand islands.

This announcement is the latest example of the NSW Liberal Government failing to deliver a suitable dreading program for Swansea Channel.

Earlier this year, the Government stated that dredging would be completed prior to Christmas. It has since been delayed until 2023.

This news is also disappointing for Bring Blacksmiths Back - a local community group who are strong advocates for renourishing Blacksmiths Beach.

Ms Yasmin Catley MP - Member for Swansea said “I was extremely disappointed to hear this news from the NSW Liberal Government. It makes perfect sense to use the dredged sand to renourish Blacksmiths Beach, but the Government are failing to honour their commitment to this plan”.

“I have been a strong supporter of the Bring Blacksmiths Back group in their consistent lobbying for sand to be transported to the beach. The Liberals have well and truly let them down”.

“The local community is tired of Swansea Channel not being dredged. It is the gateway to Lake Macquarie, yet it is virtually unnavigable. It is time the NSW Liberal Government followed through with their dredging commitments”.