Rockfall damages Pearl Beach sewer

A rockfall from the cliff face at Umina Point below Mt Ettalong has damaged the sewer main that services Pearl Beach.

Council's director of city services Mr Stephen Glen said council was currently seeking geotechnical advice regarding the stability of the escarpment.

"Concern in this area not only relates to the safety of any persons entering this area as the rock fall has also impacted upon a sewer rising main," Mr Glen said.

"Signs have been in place for many years warning the public of the hazards associated with attempting to traverse the informal track and rocks around the headland."

Council's director of water and sewer Mr Rod Williams said the sewer main had been isolated since June 5, after it was damaged in a rock fall caused by recent heavy rain in the area.

"Geotechnical engineers who inspected the site have advised that another large rock needs to be removed to ensure the cliff is stable before crews can carry out repair works," Mr Williams said.

"The area has been cordoned off for safety reasons and council is asking the community to avoid using the bushwalking track until further notice.

"Tankers will continue to transport sewage from the pump station in Pearl Beach to another in Umina so it can be transferred to the Woy Woy Sewage Treatment Plant.

"Residents in Pearl Beach are advised to continue using their household wastewater systems as per usual."

Media statement, 17 Jun 2010 Rod Williams, Gosford Council Stephen Glen, Gosford Council