Deakin Reserve jetty at Oak Flats is undergoing works. Photo: Shellharbour City Council.
Essential maintenance and repair works are being undertaken on the popular jetty at Deakin Reserve in Oak Flats, closing it to the public for about six weeks from 28 September.
Ageing and showing signs of deterioration, the structure will undergo improvements to extend its safe use.
Works will be carried out by a specialised contractor and will include structural repairs to the jetty’s support system, targeted replacement of compromised structural elements, improvements to its durability and performance, and other maintenance and protective treatments.
During construction, access to Deakin Reserve will be maintained.
However, a section of the new carpark adjacent to the lake will be closed to the public and there will be an increase in construction vehicles in the area.
Shellharbour Mayor Chris Homer said the works were an important investment in maintaining community infrastructure.
“Deakin Reserve is a much-loved waterfront destination, and these repairs will help protect an important community asset,” councillor Homer said.
“By undertaking this maintenance now, we’re investing in the long-term benefit of residents and visitors who enjoy the lake for recreation, fishing and boating.”
The jetty has been used by Shellharbour City Rowing Club, Oak Flats Sailing Club and SUDU Dragon Boat Club for many years, along with other recreational users.
Those wishing to fish or launch watercraft during the construction period at Deakin Reserve jetty should look at alternative nearby locations such as Ski-Way Park at Oak Flats or Boonerah Point at Mount Warrigal.
The jetty is part of a string of capital works and upgrades in Shellharbour this year, including the Harrison Park master plan implementation; Beverly Whitfield Ocean Pool modifications; Terry Street, Albion Park road safety upgrades; Oak Flats Ski-Way Park public amenities renewal; and Cuthbert Drive, Mount Warrigal stormwater renewal.
The reserve was previously highlighted by council for a dedicated recreational bike track, but Kingston Street Park just 700 metres down the road was instead given top priority due to the significant environmental and cultural considerations at Deakin Reserve.
It came on the radar of council after children in the area took matters into their own hands by constructing an informal bike track.
A previous start date for the jetty’s construction was adjusted to accommodate a prebooked club event at Deakin, to allow it to proceed without disruption.
Works are expected to be completed mid November, weather and site conditions permitting.
This project is funded by council and NSW Boating Infrastructure Maintenance Grants, with more information available on council’s website.
