Wallamba ferry operator Ray Horsfeld said he has been operating the ferry for around six years and has not been able to travel through the shortcut since he began.

“There has been a rapid decline in the water (since June 2007) and after two severe winters it has led to this,” he said.

Mr Horsfeld has concerns the other route will silt up and stop the ferries from getting through.

Already the Wallamba, a relatively high-sitting boat, touches the bottom on low tide and it is impossible for larger boats to come through.

“It stops tourists in large vessels as they can’t get out unless it’s on a high tide.

“It is depriving the town of tourist dollars,” Mr Horsfeld said.

The Port Stephens Ferry Service, Wallamba, Simba and Myall Tourer use the entrance for business purposes.

By dredging the shortcut and allowing the ferries to run through, around 20 minutes will be taken off the trip.

It will also decrease fuel costs for ferry operators.

“People are coming over on the ferry on their annual trips and recognising something is happening to the river,” Mr Horsfeld said.

Mr Horsfeld represents ferry operators on the newly- formed Myall River Action Group.

“The main priority is to get the river flowing; the health and well-being of the lakes and river system is paramount for tourists because it is what we are selling,” he said.