Current Safety Notices

Dredging operations are underway with dredge equipment located at the “Dog-leg” turn within Swansea Channel.

A maximum speed restriction of 60 knots (approximately 111 kilometres per hour) is temporarily imposed on all powered vessels towing persons of any age on all NSW navigable waters

Lake Macquarie City Council is upgrading Blacksmiths Boat Ramp to improve access to Lake Macquarie’s waterways.  The boat ramp will be closed for reconstruction works from 4 May 2026 in preparation for summer. The project will include: For full project information including designs, plans, consultation contacts etc, see Lake Macquarie City Council’s Project Page. If you need to launch from a ramp inside the Swansea Bridge, see the Swansea Bridge Booking Page for opening times, booking and usage instructions and contacts.

Transport for NSW advises vessel operators that the leads into The Swansea Channel from sea through Swansea Heads require maintenance and should be used with caution at the current time. The rear lead is not clearly visible due to deteriorated paintwork and can be difficult to match to the forward lead.

The 3 x courtesy poles on the western side of Swansea Bridge have been identified as a potential hazard to persons and vessels if vessels were to be secured to them. The use of these courtesy poles will be prohibited until further notice