Former Kearns Boatshed, Yamba

We are working to address safety concerns at the former Kearns Boatshed at Yamba, a locally listed heritage structure located on Crown land (waterway) below the Mean High Water Mark.

Independent assessments have confirmed the boatshed is in poor condition and presents an ongoing public safety risk, including damage sustained during ex- Tropical Cyclone Alfred. The work underway is focused on managing these risks while working with Clarence Valley Council, the Yaegl Registered Native Title Body Corporate and other stakeholders to consider options for the site’s future.

• The former Kearns Boatshed is a locally listed heritage item built before 1950.
• Independent assessments have confirmed the structure is in a severely deteriorated condition and presents public safety risks, particularly during low tide when it’s possible to access.
• Heritage and condition assessments in 2025 recommended the structure be demolished or made safe.
• Work is underway to progress the required approvals, which are also subject to funding availability, heritage considerations, site access arrangements and identification of a long-term site manager.
• Timing for any works will be confirmed once approvals and agreements are finalised.
• The Department will confirm if re-building is feasible or alternatively look to make the site safe and return to public use.

If approved, during any future works, there may be:

• temporary restrictions to access around the boatshed site
• short term noise associated with construction/removal activities.

We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and will provide advance notice where possible.