Published: 18 February 2021

Eurobodalla Councillors will receive a further briefing next week on the Coopers Island Road issue.

Local fishers have expressed frustration that a landowner has restricted access to the popular fishing and kayaking spot south of Tuross Head.

Coopers Island Road is a public road that provides access to the waterway and a privately owned farm. Members of the public can legally fish or launch kayaks from the causeway, provided the area is left in a clean condition and traffic flow is not obstructed. Eurobodalla Council maintains the road, causeway and the bridge.

The land owner has raised concerns about public use of this area, and initial discussions have been held with the owner, as well as local fishers. Progress was delayed, however, as Council’s focus switched to bushfire and flood repairs.

The land owner has erected new fencing which inhibits public access and parking near the waterway. The location of this fencing and the position of the physical road compared to the public road reserve adds complexity to the matter.

The land owner has indicated they may wish to purchase the road reserve from Council, citing concerns about safety and possible conflict with farming activities when members of the public are on the bridge and causeway.

Discussions continue with the land owner to fully understand the issues and determine how their concerns can be allayed while retaining access for the community.

If required, a report will come to Council for deliberation late in March. It is hoped a mutually agreeable solution can be found.

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