Local Navigation Warning

Port of Gippsland Lakes – Port of Sale

Location: Port of Sale

DATE:  09 February 2023 DETAILS: Mariners are advised that Gippsland Ports has received reports of fallen tree hazards, revealed following receding flood waters in the waterway systems comprising the Sale Canal, Thompson River and the Latrobe River as referred in LNW No.13 of 2022. Gippsland Ports will carry out a waterway system inspection, at the same time reducing hazards if possible, and report the assessment to interagency personnel. Gippsland Ports has received feedback that PWC and other fast recreational vessel operators may be exceeding the Speed Limit within these waterway systems. Gippsland Ports reminds all vessel operators that navigation within river systems entails risk at all times but especially if vessels are travelling at high speeds. Due to the uncertainty of tree hazards, their location, and proximity to the water surface within these waterway systems Gippsland Ports highly recommends that all vessel operators shall observe the Speed Restriction of 5 Knots that covers the whole length of the Sale Canal, Thompson and Latrobe Rivers at all times to mitigate risk of collision with an unknown object. Night Navigation in these waterways is highly risky due to the uncertainty of vessel positions in regard to navigation hazards. Gippsland Ports recommends vessel operators should avoid night navigation unless required for emergency response. Please report any sightings of navigation hazards within the river system to Gippsland Ports Harbour Master by phone 0427 610 025 or email at: bevish@gippslandports.vic.gov.au A further notice will be issued when assessments and an action plan have been made.