Published: 19 October 2023

A small group sparked plenty of conversation topics at the Councillor Catchup on Wednesday 18 October.

Three councillors were in attendance at this month’s catchup at Moruya: Mayor Mathew Hatcher, Deputy Mayor Alison Worthington and Councillor Tubby Harrison.

A member of the South Coast Health and Sustainability Alliance (SHASA) expressed her appreciation of being able to informally chat with councillors over a cuppa at Blue Heron Café.

She talked about a recent workshop she attended run by the Tech Exec for get online week. She was amazed by Skyfi Internet hubs and their ability to keep remote areas connected.

She asked if Council could install these internet hubs in Eurobodalla’s small communities. Mayor Hatcher said it would be a costly Council operation making sure every small community had one. He said Skyfi Internet hubs were something individuals have been purchasing and recommended communities or groups to buy their own.

The SHASA member also talked about the upcoming EV Expo. With its growing success this year it’s expected to be their biggest yet. The Mayor was pleased to say Council was a proud sponsor.

In curiosity, she asked if Council would run and take on community events as they grow too big for small volunteer groups to handle.

Rather than managing events, Mayor Hatcher said Council has resources to support them.

In another conversation, Councillors heard from a local woman frustrated by a campground along the Deua River she understood was illegal.

She said her efforts contacting Council, National Parks and Local Land Services have all hit dead ends with no organisation taking responsibility to assess the property and situation.

“I feel everyone thinks: if it’s out of sight, it’s out of mind,” she said.

She was concerned by inadequate waste infrastructure and pollution to the river with so many campers at the site.

Councillors were also asked for an update on the old bowling club site at Batemans Bay. Mayor Hatcher said the EOI process was complete and the General Manager has begun negotiations with selected developers.

Everyone at the catchup talked about their visions for the space – with everyone mentioning the benefits of a hi-rise apartment-style housing development.

Another question councillors were asked was whether Araluen Road has been handed over to the state government following its costly repair work.

Councillor Tubby Harrison said Council has applied to transfer the ownership and was still waiting for a response

A gentleman from Tuross caught Councillors at the end of the catchup, asking for answers to whether Council can mitigate the fire risk of a 200-metre reserve alongside Hector McWilliam Drive and Trafalgar Road.

“The Tuross Head Association has been asking Council for six years about a strip of land and its fire risk to the community.”

Councillors are following up responses from Council staff on the Deua River campground and Tuross Head nature reserve and will be in touch with the respective community members.

---

Don’t miss out on Council news and events, subscribe to our monthly email newsletter.