Recent rainfall has led to the early artificial opening of Lake Cathie to the ocean, after it was originally scheduled to take place at the end of July.
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Port Macquarie-Hastings Council will re-open Lake Cathie to the ocean on Wednesday, July 11.
The decision comes after a number of residents expressed their concerns about the water level impact on surrounding properties at the location.
The lake’s water level has risen beyond the 1.6 metre opening trigger point.
Council director Melissa Watkins said the safety of residents and protecting nearby homes and infrastructure from minor flooding is of the highest priority.
“The great news for our community is that the lake will be open during the school holidays, and with the foreshore now replenished, this beautiful area will continue to be a popular destination for locals and visitors,” she said.
“While the opening of the lake is exciting, the force of the water rushing out can be unpredictable and we encourage everyone to keep well away from the channel and to exercise common sense.”
An excavator will be used to clear a path to the ocean further south than the previous channel to protect the recently replenished foreshore from high seas and tidal surges.
Works to open the lake will take about one day to complete, and lifeguards will be present to ensure the safety of onlookers.
