While pedestrian ferry services have been provided for the island's residents, to further meet the needs of residents and a number of local dairy farmers who have cattle on the island, a barge service has now also been put in place.

The "Cormorant" ferry, which links and provides access, between Lower Numbaa and Comerong Island, across the man-made Berry's Canal, was taken out of service in June this year for major maintenance work, which was expected to take three to four months.

The need for the work was identified as part of routine vessel integrity inspections.

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In accordance with statutory provisions, the "Cormorant" is required to be dry docked every five years for a survey to ensure the vessel's integrity.

While the ferry was out of service, council has also replaced and reconstructed the concrete approach ramps on both sides of the canal.

The new concrete ramps are in place, with a council spokesperson saying while the ferry rebuild was progressing, "there are significant challenges particularly in respect of the ability to source materials and parts in the current COVID environment."

"That means the expected recommissioning date for the ferry is late November," the spokesperson said.

Work on the ferry includes hull repairs, renewal of deck fittings, new guard rails and hatches, new foundations for drive wheels, engine, hydraulics, dinghy davit, lifejacket bins and cabin.

Council said there are three key components of the project; the concrete approach ramp reconstruction, ferry rebuild, and pedestrian ferry services.

"The approach ramp reconstruction has been completed with the associated rock revetment works adjacent to the eastern and western approach ramps to be completed on the return of the ferry," the spokesperson said.

"The pedestrian ferry service pontoons, car park and access have been established with the residents' service operational until the return of the ferry."

However, council said in view of this delay a "residents only" freight service to Comerong Island started on Monday, September 27, for a period of four weeks.

The barge service, from Sydney's northern beaches, is not open to the public, and only operates weekdays, Monday to Friday inclusive, for eight hours per day including transit from and to the mooring.

The barge operates from 8:30am to 4pm subject to weather and river conditions.

The barge is designed for cattle transport, farm equipment, fodder transport and small freight trucks, however users will be required to provide proof of Comerong Island residency.

A temporary pedestrian service via a boat also provides residents' access during the construction period but there is no vehicular access to the island.

Island access via the temporary service is also dependent on prevailing tidal and weather conditions and the service is limited to residents, their guests and contractors.

There is no public access to Comerong Island will be available during the ferry service closure.

Council said staff continue to inform residents of updates to the project, including a monthly online meeting.

With the Shoalhaven area is still under Stay at Home orders residents are reminded all travel/transport using the service should fall under the essential travel definitions.

For more information on the project visit council's website www.shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au/Projects-Engagement/Major-Projects-Works/Comerong-Island-Ferry-Refurbishment-Works.

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