THE Gantry or Government Hole is a small natural cove on Fingal Island protected from the southerly wind and boiling sea. Facing north the waters inside the Gantry are generally calm and crystal clear, being an ideal spot to anchor out of the swell. Not so long ago this peaceful getaway was the hottest spot to catch big green eyed calamari squid but like so many other popular spots the Gantry no longer holds squid.
The disappearing squid remains one of my most unanswered questions.
I have checked contacts in Sydney Harbour and Lake Macquarie for the same response.
From the late 1800s up until 1973 the Gantry was the main point of contact on Fingal Island for boats sailing from Nelson Bay bringing lighthouse supplies and passengers.
Occasionally, when conditions permitted, a supply boat would run up onto the beach in the western corner and off load onto a horse and cart, later a 4×4 jeep, for transport to the lighthouse.
Not noted as a fishing hole the Gantry does fill up with lobsters when an East Coast Low and 5-6 metre seas smash the coastline.
The lobsters scurry for protection out of the raging ocean and wait patiently until the seas abate.
There is a shallow reef system that borders the Gantry and stretches back towards Boondelbah Island.
Next time you are motoring in that area check out the rocky bottom with your sounder.
Snapper for sure.
By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE
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