Bonnie Vale boat launch closed over long weekend

To reduce traffic congestion and improve visitor safety, the Bonnie Vale boat launch will be temporarily closed over the Australia Day long weekend following last year’s successful trial.

Bonnie Vale Day Use Area, adjacent to the Bundeena township, is one of the most visited locations in Royal National Park particularly on the long weekend when the car park can be full by 8am.

The boat ramp is primarily used to launch small boats and jet skis on the Port Hacking River. On busy summer days when Royal National Park is at full capacity, the use of the ramp causes significant traffic congestion within the visitor precinct.

In addition, the large number of swimmers and passive watercraft users, such as kayakers and paddleboarders, interacting with powered vessels creates major safety issues.

The temporary closure was effective last year and will improve safety for everyone by separating swimmers and watercraft users and taking pressure off the roads.

The Bonnie Vale boat launch will be closed to the public from late afternoon on Friday 23 January, reopening on the morning of Tuesday 27 January.

There are plenty of other options for boat launching in the Sutherland Shire and National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) encourages people to consider these alternatives over the Australia Day long weekend.

To view the list of boat ramps in the Sutherland Shire please visit the Sutherland Shire council website.

NPWS works closely with NSW Maritime and Sutherland Shire Council who have been informed about the temporary closure of the boat launch on the Australia Day long weekend.

Quotes attributable to Brendon Neilly, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Royal Area Manager:

"Public safety will always be the number one priority for NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and the temporary closure will ensure that park visitors can safely enjoy the beaches and waterways around Bonnie Vale this coming Australia Day long weekend."