Take great care around The Cut, skippers told

Boat users are being advised to take extreme caution when travelling through The Cut entrance channel at Leschenault Estuary, after dangerous swells and big waves were reported.

The dangerous conditions have come about after the north groyne was damaged in the June storms, resulting in a formation of a sandbar and shallower water inside the groyne.

Recreational fisherman Brian Hovey said he worried about inexperienced fishermen using the area.

‘‘We went through The Cut about two weeks ago in a 24-foot boat and because of the outgoing tide and incoming swell a wave went straight over the boat,’’ he said.

‘‘Someone without the right gear is going to get hurt — a tinnie would have been swamped.’’

Mr Hovey said the damage, minor at first, had got worse since June and now needed major repair work.

The Department of Transport’s coastal infrastructure general manager Steve Jenkins said officers had inspected the area and offered to discuss options with coastal managers.

‘‘Our coastal specialists have been contacted by the City of Bunbury, Shire of Harvey and Department of Environment and Conservation in regard to The Cut,’’ he said.

‘‘The Department of Transport advises skippers to navigate the area with extreme caution — shallow water extends in a easterly direction inside the northern sea wall.’’

Water Police have also advised boat users to take care in the area.