Local Navigation Warning

Port of Gippsland Lakes

Location: Gippsland Lakes system

DATE:  7 September 2021 DETAILS: Mariners are advised that recent rainfall totals of around 75mm in the river catchments of the Gippsland Lakes system has caused minor and in some cases moderate and localized flooding. Since yesterday 6^th September, River heights in the Mitchell (moderate flood level), Tambo (minor flood level) and Nicholson Rivers have peaked and are falling. Minor flooding in the Latrobe, Thomson, Avon and Macalister Rivers has also peaked and is falling. Gippsland Ports will monitor and check on River heights for further Warnings and Notices. In the meantime, Mariners are reminded that debris caused by flood water including large trees and timbers may find its way downstream and affect the safe navigation of vessels within the Gippsland River and Lake systems. For information on weather and rising flood water levels go to; http://www.bom.gov.au/ Gippsland Ports recommends downloading the VicEmergency App. Gippsland Ports strongly advises against the operation of vessels in flood affected waters or driving vehicles through flood water. Mariners should take extra precaution if it is necessary to operate vessels in rivers and creeks following rain events and be aware of the possible presence of new debris hazards. Please contact Gippsland Ports on 0351 500 500 to report navigation hazards. For the Gippsland Lakes, Mariners are advised that floodwaters from the catchment areas of the entire lakes system can only exit through the ocean entrance to the Gippsland Lakes. Floodwater increases the velocity of the flow of the ebb tide in the navigable channels near Lakes Entrance and the Entrance Channel and causes heightened safety risk when attempting Bar crossings. Mariners are advised to expect higher than predicted tides throughout the Gippsland Lakes System. The flow of the ebb tide at its peak in the Entrance channel may exceed 6 knots at times.   Vessel owners and operators should ensure that berthed or moored vessels are properly secured and regularly check mooring lines and anchor cables.