Boats at wharf without water and electricity

Central Coast Council has cut water and electricity to the wharf at Gosford two days after a deadline for the moored vessels to vacate the premises.

But the majority of boats are still there.

Four days before the Council deadline, some of the boat owners received letters from NSW Maritime, a State Government department, giving them two weeks to prove their boats are seaworthy.

The owners have to provide an expert report from an accredited marine surveyor confirming operation of the vessel will not endanger anyone.

If they decide to dispose of their boat, they have to prove lawful removal from the water.

Council said it had been liaising with occupants and/or owners of vessels moored at Gosford public wharf since  February 7, when they were first advised that essential maintenance was needed to be carried out, and that notices to vacate would be issued, and the wharf closed to the public.

Notices to vacate the moorings were issued in November, with all vessels required to vacate by December 5.

Occupants of the vessels were advised that any vessels which remained at the wharf and were required to be removed by Council for impounding would be securely stored at a Council facility.

Some owners of seaworthy boats are believed to be waiting for moorings elsewhere.

Council said that following a safety inspection on Monday, December 5 power and water services were disconnected from the wharf due to safety concerns. 

“As part of the scheduled maintenance works, safety improvements to the power and water will occur allowing for future approved temporary moorings to access these services,” Council said.

“The wharf will be closed to the public and future vessel moorings until further notice. 

“Once the public wharf is reopened bookings to temporarily moor at the public wharf can be made in accordance with the terms for use of the wharf, ie maximum of four days,” Council said.