Beagle readers, Your Batemans Bay Boaters Association representative sits on the Foreshore Advisory Committee (FAC) and welcome the Ministers announcement regarding the design of the bridge. When it is finished in some 4 years it will hopefully solve many of the issues confronting the Bay now and over the holiday periods.
Above: a barge is now carrying out test boring of the Clyde River
The Foreshore Advisory Committee (FAC) was late in being constituted and should have been brought together months ago to include what appears to be some very creative, well thought out ideas and solutions but it was not. Yes it is just an "Advisory" body and we have no decision making powers but why waste the talent of those that spend the time and effort to contribute. The meeting last night which was delayed by the Ministers announcement was carefully orchestrated by RMS the FAC facilitators. Two representatives were feted by the Minister at his announcement while others sat and waited to be informed. At the subsequent meeting some chose to not contribute a word and leave when it was obvious that it was going nowhere as others voiced their constituents concerns very forcefully while others went through the expected motions. Was the advice listened to? We can only wait and see. As has been said elsewhere the FAC advisers only covers litter bins and latrines and not the substantive issue.
Above: The brown hatched section is that under the "advice" of the Foreshore Advisory committee though it is understood by The Beagle that the T Wharf is now off the table for further discussion leaving the committee to advise on "latrines and litter bins".
For boaters, fishers and other recreational water users the impact during the construction phase will be trying and those on the FAC did our best to get RMS to adhere to the standards, laws, guidelines and codes but it appears we failed. An article to come will outline this. So what is left? The Shire plays a pivotal role in the land/water interface and the Shire has three people at every FAC meeting. A representative and two others. So there are forums to discuss their input, response and "plans". The BB Boaters Association will continue to call out non-compliance in all its forms and locations and will represent local and ACT boaters in all forums - real or virtual. If you have a question or issue feel free to contact the Association or one of the fishing organisation and we will continue to advocate on your behalf. Have a safe and relaxing time on the water. Harry Watson Smith Batemans Bay Boaters Association Inc
