MV Cape Don in discussions with NSW Maritime
Ports and Waterways Minister Joe Tripodi said a proposal to relocate the old lighthouse vessel, the MV Cape Don, is being considered by NSW Maritime.
'MV Cape Don'
MV Cape Don
"NSW Maritime met with volunteers of the MV Cape Don Society yesterday to discuss plans for the relocation of the vessel," Mr Tripodi said.
"The MV Cape Don is currently moored at the derelict Old Coal Loader wharf at Balls Head which is not safe for public access to the vessel.
"The MV Cape Don Society is aware of the problems with the wharf and has presented a proposal for relocation which NSW Maritime has agreed to assess.
"There are no promises beyond an agreement to assess the proposal. NSW Maritime will cover the cost of this assessment which will involve independent engineers.
"The relocation has to meet safety and statutory requirements. We have said from the beginning the main reason for the move is safety and we want to make sure any relocation meets these standards." 
NSW Maritime's concern for the safety of public accessing the MV Cape Don was heightened after an independent engineering report stated the former Coal Loader wharf was unsafe.
To ensure public safety, NSW Maritime last week removed and stored a section of ramp and stairs from the wharf.
The owners of the MV Cape Don were asked in July to relocate their vessel and were offered an alternative mooring at Snails Bay at no cost.
The Society has since proposed the alternative location which is not far from the current berth and which they believe may be clear of the derelict and unsafe sections of the wharf structure.
The Society also offered to complete work at the alternative location to ensure it is safe.
The alternative berth has been requested for 18 months to allow completion of the next phase of vessel restoration works.
by Vickie Smiles 
Click on thumbnails to enlarge and find more photos:
Port Macquarie, NSW
