The $1.38 million replacement jetty at Wangi Wangi has finally opened.
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Lake Macquarie MP Greg Piper declared the jetty operational on Thursday but to little fanfare. It is one of the first local infrastructure projects to be completed during the COVID-19 pandemic that would usually attract an official unveiling ceremony.
Work on the project began in September and involved the old dilapidated jetty's removal and construction of an extended replacement.
"The jetty was originally owned by the RSL club but was closed when the club couldn't afford repairs, so an ownership transfer had to take place while we sought funding to rebuild it," Mr Piper said.
"The new jetty is much bigger than the old one and provides more space for watercraft to be secured in a variety of weather conditions.
"The result is really fantastic and I'm delighted to see it finally opened."
The new jetty is much bigger ... and provides more space for watercraft to be secured in a variety of weather conditions
- Lake Macquarie MP Greg Piper
The NSW government provided $717,057 for the project through its Boating Now funding program, while Lake Macquarie council added the remaining $668,779.
"While it has taken longer than planned, the upgraded facility will provide improved lake access and recreational boating opportunities for years to come," Lake Macquarie mayor Kay Fraser said.
"This project demonstrates the benefits of the NSW government and local government working together to deliver for the community."
While the new jetty is now open for use, Mr Piper urged the boating and fishing communities to adhere to social distancing regulations in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Jetty users are reminded to only gather in groups of two and stay 1.5 metres apart.
