Autumn 2015 | Edition #107 | Circulation 4,000 copies

Lake Wollumboola p.3 | People Power: Heart of Huski p.5 Dredging: Messing With Nature A Costly Exercise CHRIS GROUNDS & has been produced. From it go these proposals are not large for popular Whale-watching The likely net impact would be PAT THOMPSON we learn that three dredging falling below the threshold tourism and all-tides access of the eventual loss of a roughly projects have been recom- required for a full environ- tenders from visiting cruise equivalent volume of sand from hen someone mended and two prioritised, mental impact report, residents ships. Vessels are increasing in the southern end of Callala down at the pub namely Currambene Creek and should take notice of the cost to size and number to meet tourist Beach from erosion in a severe gets a good idea, Suxxex Inlet, which with Lake ratepayers, the environmental demand. storm event.” some joker always Conjola involves an estimated impact and Council’s neglect However the Consultant’s The sand is to be ‘de-watered’ Wagrees that bloody Council cost of approximately $2 million. to follow its own planning Report warns: “The sand budget in bunds on , right should do something about As I write the consultants are processes. at the entrance of Currambene near the spit, which is an impor- it. In the Shoalhaven like in busy finalising a Review of the Creek is in balance. Over- tant bird resting area used by other places you can get things Environmental Factors, which CURRAMBENE CREEK dredging the sand shoal at the ‘Threatened Species shorebirds’ going by starting a petition. is due to be released for public The push for dredging at the creek mouth would result in and migratory species. The Now who is not going to agree comment in March before the entrance of Currambene Creek temporary loss of sand from the sand is then to be moved up the that by spending a few bob and matter will return to Council for comes from commercial pres- creek’s delta system. It would beach – truck or pumped – for shifting a load or two of sand, a decision. sures with a view to increasing also open up the wharf & moor- we can improve our boating Whilst as dredging projects a larger commercial presence ings to more ocean storm swell. Continued p. 2 amenity. We all like the water and messing about in boats, as Sand spit at entrance to Currambene Creek...Chris Grounds after all that is why many of us chose to live here. Equally our politicians know a good thing when they see one. A petition with a few thousand names appended to it certainly gets their juices flowing. And so with a little pressure here and a little pressure there, money to at least do a study and see if “a good idea” gels is worth voting for. So $400,000 of ratepayers money and State taxes is advanced. Never mind that endless previous studies have found that “a good idea” is in fact a bad one. Never mind also that Council’s own Management Plan specifically pours cold water on dredging. It states, “Sediment movement is a dynamic process. Dredging will only ever provide short term improvement, followed by natural infilling of the channel from subsequent floods or tidal deposition. In addition to the significant initial costs involved in dredging there is also a size- able ongoing financial commit- ment required (Webb McKeown & Assoc., 2006).

THE NEXT STEP Having engaged consult- ants Peter Spurway & Assoc. a, Dredging Feasibility Study (available on Council’s website) 2 Autumn 2015 #107 letters State Election: Su stainable Apart from polluting the beach, Shoalhaven what about polluting the crystal clear waters of when Over the last three months, six rubbish is washed in at high tide? It’s Time To Act! of us connected with Shoalhaven Transition have been meeting and Imagine the impression given working towards developing a plan to caring tourists enthusiastic to After more 30 years of strategic planning for dedication to , for a sustainable Shoalhaven. see this wonderful icon of the and conservation initiatives, the wellbeing of to conserve the internationally signifi- Shoalhaven only to find it trashed. I is still under threat from cant natural values and Aboriginal cultural The initiative for this project comes am disgusted. massive development expansion. heritage of the Lake and catchment. from Ian Chambers, a Sydney- based business consultant, and Can we ask questions? Who Please support the Lake Wollumboola finalising both National Park dedication and co-author of the book, Plan for benefits from tourists or their Protection Association’s campaign to have rezoning issues as part of the Halloran Trust the Planet. This book focuses dollars? Not many at Hyams. the remaining undeveloped parts of the Lake Planning Proposal process, with a morato- on eleven key aspects of human catchment conserved as part of Jervis Bay rium on further development applications for activity, the urgent difficulties we Are any benefits worth the impacts National Park. the Lake and Crookhaven River catchments. face involving each of these, and to our priceless natural treasures? outlines strategies for addressing I personally think not. Write to the NSW Planning and Environment opening up the Halloran Planning Proposal these challenges using a business Ministers, Pru Goward and Rob Stokes, with process to community engagement and management approach. This Council, JB National Park and copies to Member for South Coast Shelley public comment. book provides “ a business plan Jervis Bay Marine Parks Authority Hancock and representatives of other parties framework to the global challenges need to act before the next batch requesting that they support: progressing without further delay the we face, and the coordination of of attracted tourists come and listing of Lake Wollumboola as a wetland of the solutions which will enable us ‘love’ Hyams Beach. acquisition of Halloran Trust lands in the International Importance under the Ramsar to build a sustainable world”. Lake Wollumboola catchment and surrounds Convention. Maureen Webb Ian took part in the discussion Shoalhaven resident following the screening in Huskisson of the film “The Dredging Economics of Happiness” in Saving TAFE Continued From P.1 August last year. He later linked up with members of Transition, and TAFE is bleeding to death – slowly 1.5kms to be dumped over the dynamic in response to natural The Community Engagement suggested that we work on a plan – with ongoing reductions to their vegetated fore-dune in front events such as floods and storm Policy sets out the principal for a sustainable Shoalhaven, using budgets, finding a full time TAFE of some houses – 7000m3 of seas. People in the meeting also that there will be a plan. No the same approach he used in his teacher is almost like finding a dredged sand to a depth of 1m testified to the Inlet being in a such Plan was presented at the book. unicorn! – unconsolidated. Trucking can good state and quite usable. consultation meeting nor does be highly damaging to beach There was the clear input that one seem to exist. Like the The areas of activity in the TAFE NSW has always been a sand ecology. This is claimed to the dredging-sand mining Estuary Management Plan, the Shoalhaven we are focussing on fantastic place for education, from be an erosion mitigation action proposal was unnecessary Community Engagement Plan so far, are: food production, energy trade’s to diplomas and pathways but can only afford some houses and that given the consultant apparently can seemingly be generation, waste treatment, to work, regional NSW has relied protection but not all requiring comments in response to ques- ignored. When it is comes to transport, and education. Our aims on the TAFE system to deliver some protection. The efficacy tions of how long the dredging voting contradictory matters are to investigate what the current programs for our young people and of the dredging is untested and may last, is contrary to good can easily be set aside in favour situation is, to develop strategies people interested in returning to the admission is that the dura- management and expenditure. of populist notions. On the that would move towards work or changing career. tion of effect is unknown and up-side it all makes for a good sustainability, and to take action depends on nature – really! COUNCIL yarn down at the pub. It is that in the local community based on The NSW Government has Given the nature of the feed- bloody Council again, why do these strategies. been pouring money into SUSSEX INLET back from a strongly supported we bother with them! private providers and for profit The proposal for here is that community consultative If you’d like to contribute in any organisations that are benefiting dredging is desired to improve meeting questions arise which way, or to find out more about this from new income sources and depths in parts of current must be asked and answered. project, you can contact me at directly challenging the bread channels. At the Community Consultation requires an [email protected] and butter courses that have consultative meetings organ- acknowledged two-way flow in ised by Council various views seeking a response to proposals, traditionally been provided by TAFE. THE NEW BUSH TELEGRAPH Peter Becke, Shoalhaven Privatisation by stealth. This is a were expressed that included in this case dredging, other- Transition terrible situation for regional areas comments that the dredging wise it is simply information The views expressed in this such as the South Coast where was more in the nature of sand- giving. On that basis, it would publication are not necessarily those our youth unemployment rates mining and were driven by “the be expedited that careful notes of the Editor. L ove Hyams Beach? are some of the state’s highest. petition” collected locally and would be kept by Council at Editor: Patrick Thompson We need to keep and fund our presented to Council. This peti- these meetings as a matter of [email protected] I have been dismayed, saddened TAFFE system to make it useful tion was a major focus for much record but that does not appear Tel: 0402 361 424 and downright angry to see the for training people for the services discussion and was not well to have been done. If not, the Advertising: Ingrid Leusch way visitors trash the wonderful in the region. Around 60% of the regarded across the community. meetings were not ‘consulta- Shoalhaven treasure, beautiful South Coast lives on fixed income In the case of Sussex Inlet tive’ meetings at all. But there Tel: 0417 711 128 Hyams Beach. and we are a socio-economically the Estuary Management Plan is a bigger question to put to Send your letters, comments, challenged area, all but completely should apply and was strongly Council. Council does have pictures or contributions to The You know, the one with ‘the reliant on the private vehicle for supported by many comments a Community Engagement Editor, New Bush Telegraph, PO Box whitest sands in the world transport. It makes no sense to in the consultative meeting. Policy. Why has Council not 49, St Georges Basin NSW 2540 force our people to travel long These comments of course applied this policy in relation Layout: Bungoona Technologies, My friends and myself pick up distances to train at TAFE as travel were built on first-hand expe- to these proposals. They do Grays Point NSW 0404 065 376 rubbish we find. This season the costs are often prohibitive. rience, often over decades. involve significant amounts amount and type of rubbish left Researchers and commu- of rate-payer funds and they Printer: Weston Print, Kiama NSW behind was incredible. Left by In 2014 The Greens put forward a nity alike can testify that the are likely to have significant BUSH TELEGRAPH ON THE WEB people who ‘love’ to visit but Bill that sought to stop expanding Inlet is a natural system and is impact, albeit locally. www.newbushtelegraph.org.au forget/refuse? to take away their funding for private training and rubbish and ‘stuff. restore TAFE’s budget however that was defeated. We don’t want Sussex Inlet A staggering amount of cigarette NSW TAFE to end up like Victoria jervis bay Mechanical Services butts, plastic bags, hard and soft where only 27% of training is plastic, dirty nappies, tissues, food, provided by TAFE. It’s bad for our ✔ Comprehensive mechanical services fishing line, coffee cups, rope, people and bad for our economy. KIOSK ✔ NRMA Road Service glass and plastic bottles, bottle The Greens need your help to take Huskisson’s Premier Cafe ✔ Suzuki outboard sales & service tops, toys, tents (one left erected this fight into the election and tell ✔ after being utilised for at least two all candidates that TAFE is worth Shop 1 Seriously Good Coffee! Marine servicing nights) Toilets used or bush? We saving. 138 Junction 2/66 Owen St Huskisson didn’t venture in to check. (02) 4441 1955 Amanda Findlay Court, Nowra 7am - 4pm 7 DAYS (02) 4441 3055 Unleashed dogs roaming in the Greens Candidate for South www.jervisbaykiosk.com.au bush – faeces - another story! Coast ☎ 4423 3281 Unit 2/4 Flood Avenue Sussex Autumn 2015 #107 3 Lake Wollumboola FRANCES BRAY reserve, gardens and provisions for clearing native vegetation ver the last two under the Native Vegetation Act. summers Lake These uses are also incom- Wollumboola has patible with the advice of Office displayed why it is such of Environment and Heritage Oan important coastal wetland, scientists, that uses such a golf and worthy candidate for listing course are likely to cause “cata- as a Wetland of International strophic” impacts on Lake Importance under the Ramsar Wollumboola and on the catch- Convention, attracting at least ment, thus diminishing the 10,000 birds including water conservation values of Jervis birds, nesting shorebirds and Bay National Park. migratory waders. Acquisition for Jervis Bay Last summer was a great National Park. season for the Endangered Government should also Migratory Little Terns with consider acquisition of the 46 fledglings. This summer a undeveloped Lake catchment White-Rumped Sandpiper is lands for dedication to Jervis the big attraction. It started its Bay National Park via donation migration in the Alaskan or or purchase. Whilst the high Canadian tundra on its way to Royal Spoonbill and teal at Lake Wollumboola. Narelle Wright 2014 cost of purchase of residentially South America. However it took zoned land and the possibility of a wrong turn and has spent most compensation claims associated of January-February roosting water, with the currently Scale of development not centre. with national park dedication and feeding at the Lake sand bar widespread aquatic algae ecologically sustainable. Thirdly the area proposed for is recognized, such costs should tolerating the excited presence Lamprothamnium sp. contrib- The entire proposal is “gifting” is inadequate for the be weighed against ongoing of hundreds of birdwatchers uting to high primary produc- for 6,100 residential lots at extent of loss of native vege- costs to Government and the from all over Australia. tivity and overall biological and . tation proposed for the West Culburra Beach community It is concerning that although diversity of the lake, saying: 5,400 residential lots, indus- Culburra development appli- of irreversible environmental, the Lake is considered as meeting “Given the strong trial, commercial and tourist cation as calculated by OEH cultural, social and economic 4-5 Ramsar criteria, progress control that charophytes development is proposed west Biobanking methodology. damage to Lake Wollumboola with listing has been on hold (Lamprothamnium) exert on of Culburra Beach mainly in So with a much greater area and the Crookhaven River from since 2011, apparently until lake ecology and water quality, the Crookhaven catchment but proposed for development, the massive over-development. the future zoning of the Lake we consider that the lake is also the Lake catchment. The area to be “gifted for national Moreover expansion of Jervis catchment is resolved. Ramsar vulnerable to a catastrophic proposal incorporates and adds park should be much larger and Bay National Park immediately nomination should precede not state change if key processes to existing development applica- include the most environmen- west of Culburra Beach would follow consideration of planning are disrupted by nutrient tions for a golf course and resi- tally sensitive area, Long Bow provide long term benefits to the and development proposals for enrichment and there is signif- dential, commercial and indus- Point and surrounds. local economy through opportu- the Lake catchment, as listing icant loss of charophytes and trial development for Culburra nities for nature and Aboriginal would ensure that any environ- macrophytes.” Beach in both the Lake and Department of Planning cultural tourism. Interest in mental assessment is conducted “The Lake would never Crookhaven catchments. and Environment the Lake as a significant habitat according to requirements of the recover from the loss of charo- recommendations for birds has resulting in large Commonwealth Environment phytes and macrophytes and Gifting proposal-not what compromise values. numbers of Bird observers Protection and Biodiversity the ecosystem services they it seems. The Department of Planning visiting Culburra Beach, with Conservation Act and that provide….resulting in loss of The Proposal gives some and Environment is currently benefits for the local economy. conservation measures are swans and other fauna.” recognition to the high conser- considering the application Acquisition of the Lake catch- consistent with Ramsar listing. Any future develop- vation values of the Lake and and has made recommen- ment is particularly significant ment in the vicinity of Lake catchment by offering to “gift” dations, with conditions for for he community as Lake and catchment- Wollumboola should be placed lands in the Lake catchment the application to proceed to Jervis Bay National Park is iden- expert warnings of as far from the lake as possible and at Kinghorn Point and Gateway approval, the first tified under theN ational Parks catastrophic impacts to minimise risk of contamina- Callala for dedication to Jervis stage of a 2-year time frame for and Wildlife Act for return from development. tion of ground water aquifers Bay National Park. However the completion. of ownership to traditional It is concerning also that, which may be directly linked value of this proposed gift is not The conditions recommended owners and joint management whilst the Lake bed, sand bar to the lake.” (ie ground water what it seems. by the Department of Planning with NPWS, should the tradi- and south west catchment aquifers outside the surface Firstly the proposal does not and Environment represent a tional owners and Jerrinja Local are already part of Jervis Bay catchment.) include Lake catchment lands significant improvement on the Aboriginal Land Council agree National Park, the northwest “The demonstrated ecolog- most critical in protecting the Halloran Trust Proposal as they to negotiate such arrangements. catchment remains zoned for ical significance of the lake, the sensitive lake ecology that is the recommend E 2 private prop- Finally whilst the Planning urban development. Yet this relative rarity of its biotype and northwest catchment including erty Environment Conservation Proposal process involves area, most importantly Long its sensitivity to catastrophic Long Bow Point. zoning for all the Halloran lands Shoalhaven City Council, repre- Bow Point, has long been recog- state change justify the current Instead Long Bow Point and in the Lake catchment, investi- sentatives of the landowner nized as critically important limitations to development in surrounds south of Culburra gation of alternative sites for a and Government agencies, the for maintaining the Lake’s the catchment.” Scanes et al Rd are proposed for “low envi- golf course and require overall community is shut out of the water quality and ecology as it (2013) (ie South Coast Regional ronmental impact community justification for the scale of process until the very end, when is a major source of Lake water Strategy.) recreation with private conser- urban expansion. a 60-day public consultation supply from surface drainage, vation zone” to allow recrea- However there are problems period is proposed. creeks and wetlands and ground Concerns with Halloran tional activities including a golf also with E 2 zoning. The local Culburra Beach water. Planning Proposal. course, tourist accommodation, Firstly it is not consistent community, particularly the Office of Environment and Despite the strength of these whilst the northwest catch- with E 1 National Park zoning Aboriginal community and Heritage 2013 research reaf- warnings, the Halloran Trust is ment north of Culburra Rd is adopted for the area included those concerned with the future firms the recommendations determinedly pursuing devel- proposed for investigation for in the South Coast Regional well-being of the Culburra of three previous independent opment applications for a golf residential development. OEH Strategy 2007. Beach environment and the Inquiries regarding the sensitive course at Long Bow Point and warnings are ignored! Secondly Shoalhaven City general public, are entitled to of Lake Wollumboola to devel- for residential, commercial Secondly two alternative sites Council added uses to the E 2 expect that decisions regarding opment expansion in its catch- and industrial development in the same ownership have zone, which are clearly incom- the Planning Proposal and asso- ment. The OEH Report titled mainly in the neighbouring been identified as more suitable patible with protecting and ciated developments are not “Environmental Sensitivity Crookhaven River catchment for a golf course. The sites in the conserving Lake Wollumboola driven by development interests. of Lake Wollumboola: input but also in the Lake catch- Crookhaven catchment are on and the threatened species Instead decisions should be into considerations of devel- ment. Now a Planning Proposal cleared and degraded land and habitat and wildlife corridor made on merit in the longterm opment applications at Long for urban development expan- there are questions in any case values of the catchment. public interest, within the Bow Point, Culburra,” Scanes sion has been lodged, following regarding the economic viability E 2 zoning would allow existing legal framework, P et al 2013 explains why Lake the decision by the then NSW of another golf course in the dwelling houses, bed and break- consistent with expert advice Wollumboola is considered so Minister for Planning and region. Moreover, pportunities fast accommodation, home and following community sensitive to impacts of develop- Infrastructure in March 2014 are also available for residen- businesses, eco-tourist facilities consultation, engagement and ment on water quality. to defer rezoning of the area tial and commercial develop- including temporary or short scrutiny throughout the process. The research report empha- from the Shoalhaven LEP to ment and consolidation with the term accommodation and recre- sises the Lake’s dependence enable a Planning Proposal to existing Culburra Beach urban ation areas such as community [email protected] on low phosphorous ground be considered. area, opposite the community sporting facilities, public park, www.wollumboola.org.au 4 Autumn 2015 #107 Arthur Boyd: Kangaroo An Active Witness Valley Arts DI BUCKLEY their produce and products. A Bundanon Trust touring It is the first major exhibition to drawings and ceramics. An expanded Sculpture in the exhibition, Jervis Bay consider the social and political The Kangaroo Valley Arts Valley is also on the agenda and Maritime Museum, 28 consciousness that influenced Ar- Alongside the Boyd collection will Festival is held every 2 years and is expected to once again attract February to 19 April 2015 thur Boyd’s art and contains a rich be a small archive of photographs, 2015 is shaping up to be bigger large crowds. The Exhibition of collection of significant artworks letters and other documents that and better than ever. From outdoor and indoor sculpture is In conjunction with Bundanon by Boyd and his dynastic Australi- provide insight into Boyd’s histori- Friday 1 May through to Sunday being held at ‘The Willows’ – a 3 May the Festival will be a cele- spectacular property in Grahams Trust, Arthur Boyd: An Active an artist family members. cal, cultural and social milieu. Also included are selected works by bration of music, art and sculp- Road Kangaroo Valley. The Witness opens at the Jervis Bay Curated from the Boyd Collection ture. Intimate recital concerts idyllic setting is a perfect back- his significant modern Australian Maritime Museum on 28th Febru- at Bundanon, this will be the with leading performers and drop for the exhibits which are contemporaries, such as Sidney ary and runs until 19th April 2015. only presentation of the exhibi- creative artists will be comple- all available for purchase. The Nolan and Charles Blackman. mented by a general festive air prize money this year is $20,000. The exhibition honours the work tion in the area and represents a collaboration between two of the Arthur Boyd: An Active Witness within the village. Local prov- A Photographic Competition of this internationally recognised finest cultural organisations in the launches the exhibition program idores will also be showcasing is also being held in conjunc- Australian artist and the potential tion with the sculpture exhibi- Shoalhaven. for 2015 at the Jervis Bay Mari- of the artist to influence society time Museum, (formerly known tion and is open to all visitors to through their role as an active The exhibition contains a range of as the Lady Denman Maritime ‘The Willows’ during the 3 days witness. artworks including large paintings, Museum). of the Festival. Parking is free and unlimited and there will be lectures twice daily by leading landscape architect Michael Bligh.

For further information please visit www.artsinthevalley.net.au or Fiona Phillips phone 0467 209 819 Labor for 1 MAY – 3 MAY 2015 – 10 am to 4 pm South Coast ‘The Willows’ 198 Grahams Road, Kangaroo Valley

A major Exhibition of Outdoor and Indoor Sculpture

Total prize money $20,000 All exhibits available for purchase on site Free and unlimited parking A café will be operating for light refreshments Visitors welcome to picnic on the lawn Free lectures twice daily by landscape architect Michael Bligh www.artsinthevalley.net.au/sculpture

Phone: 0467 209 819

PROUST BUSHLAND SERVICES offers a wide variety of ecological services: • Bush Regeneration • Management Plans • Remote Field Works • Community Group Support • Site Assessments • Ecological Systems Audits • Weed Control • Vegetation Surveys • Project Design and Management • Training and Workshops in Conservation and Land Management “Proust Bushland Services aims to provide quality, best practice ecological restoration services to a range of land maangers to assist in restoring degraded environments.” Serving the communities of Wollondilly, Wollongong, Wingecarribee, Shellharbour, Kiama, Shoalhaven and Eurobodalla CONTACT DETAILS: Phone: 092 4443 6537 Mobile: 0417 236 181 Our Community, Our Future Fax: 02 4443 6537 Email: [email protected] Authorised by V Husted, 66 Ethel St, NSW 2540. Printed by Jeffries Printing, 5/71a Milperra Rd, Revesby NSW 2212. Web: www.pbsregen.com.au Autumn 2015 #107 5 People Power: The Heart Of Huski Kate Broadhurst cally after the council voted to Within 24 hours of setting up a facebook account and the change. put in a tender. Ironically, the e have to do good news from council meant something about org petition, we had hundreds of fans and signatures, and they that everyone seemed now this!” said Ben were all writing heartfelt comments… In just ten days we had assumed they were going to ‘buy Hutchings, owner the block’. On every street corner Wof Paper Bark camp. It seemed and in shops, cafes everywhere, I secured more than $1,000,000 in pledges an insurmountable task. overheard people saying to each Jervis Bay Tourism had called other “No! It’s okay! Council’s an urgent committee meeting, going to buy it!” and top of the agenda was the In these last few days before imminent sale of the empty block the tenders close, we have of land at the centre of Huskisson, written to the board of directors owned by the RSL. Wendy Smith, at Club Jervis Bay, to ask them to President of Huskisson Chamber consider a community commit- of Commerce was already on our ment to fundraise in order to committee, and we had invited boost council’s bid, if it turns Garry Kelson, from Huskisson out not to be high enough, to Community Voice to get them to the figure they need come along. to reach. We have explained to The three local associations the Club’s board that we can had come together almost a now directly contact everyone year before, to try to persuade who has already pledged money, council to buy the 59 Owen plus 3000 of our nearly 5000 Street site. All three groups petitioners and 4000 Facebook firmly agreed that the block’s followers. We genuinely think iconic view and potential as we can raise a serious amount public space was critical to the of money, with a new ‘keep-all’ economic and social future heartfelt comments. Media Ulladulla Printers sponsored cafes underneath at wharf level. crowd funding campaign to help of Huskisson, Jervis Bay and interest picked up immediately ten thousand colour leaflets. In They donated hours of talent bring the community’s wishes indeed, our whole region. with local radio interviews Berry, when shop owners were and expertise for no fee at all. for the block into reality. We were all somewhat in a and newspaper articles. WIN asked if we could put up a sign We started crowdfunding We are also hoping that state of shock that day, because TV requested that we organise in their window, they offered to after many weeks of research although the Club’s board is not only had Shoalhaven City a few people to come along to take a couple, and leaflets too. and advice. We’d had to become bound to act in its members’ Council voted not to buy the the block, so they could film us “Where do you think we go on an incorporated group (not a best interests, they will find land in a recent meeting, but we with the famous view for a news our days off?” they’d say when simple thing to arrange over a way to ‘do the right thing’ were now being told that the RSL story. After getting permission thanked. “We love Husky too!” the Christmas break), with for this community that they (now called Club Jervis Bay), from the Club President to hold Behind the scenes an army of more pro bono help from a are such an integral part of. had decided to put the block a small rally on the site (we volunteers letterboxed the whole Nowra solicitor’s firm, Marriott We hope more than anything, up ‘for sale by tender’ within thought about 20 people might Jervis Bay region, and Sandy Oliver. The aim was to try to they decide to choose coun- two weeks’ time. The tender’s turn up at such short notice), Smyth organized a roster of raise an ambitious million cil’s bid over any controver- end-date was only three months we sent an invitation to our helpers for our information stall dollars towards a community sial ‘big development’ option. away and the timing, right facebook followers. The next in the main street of Huskisson. bid – as a way to top up coun- No one wants to see a three- across the busiest December and morning the block was filled A local IT designer, Alex Penny cil’s bid, or even find a private storey building block out that January period, could not have with a heaving mass of chanting made us a wonderful website, philanthropist. We also wanted magnetic view. As everyone been worse as most of us run locals, as well as a few repre- and another generous helper to show how the community keeps saying to us: Huskisson tourism related businesses, and sentatives from the Club who created a graphic breakdown of was prepared to “put its money would lose it’s magical its point work every single day for the had come along to support our the petition by postcode, which where its heart is”. of difference. Without that entire summer season. cause (from ‘arms length’). The helped us back up our argu- On January 22nd council view, light and space, our town Ben Hutchings came up with Sydney Sun-Herald wrote about ment that people all over the finally voted at their extraor- would just become the same as the bright idea of employing us and their story was syndi- Shoalhaven were supportive, dinary meeting to a) put in a anywhere else. someone to help us run a cated in the Times. and that Jervis Bay had a huge tender to try to buy the block Whatever happens, we know campaign, so we agreed to get Everyone wanted to help. national and international and b) commit to preserving the in our hearts that we have done permission from our associa- Shop owners donated paint reputation. entire view from Owen Street, everything we could humanly tions to pool resources and find and cardboard for posters. We Several respected Shoalhaven should their bid be successful. do to save the centre of our someone with the skill set and arranged a public meeting and elders contacted us to offer This was a huge win for us, but town, and ultimately turn the time to help us. It didn’t take about 200 people attended, advice. Some had the wisdom of we were still very concerned, as block into a breathtaking public long to find Rachael Stewart, a signing up in droves to help decades of local knowledge, and all along our goal was for them space for all residents and visi- visionary campaign consultant, on the stall, write letters, raise one even had hardcopy archives to negotiate directly with the tors to enjoy. We have shown and within ten days we were up money and distribute leaflets. of development control guide- Club and buy the block outright. the world that Huskisson is a and running with our ‘Save the At that meeting, several people lines and plans, which helped In just ten days we had secured little town with a very big heart, Heart of Huskisson’ Campaign pledged large sums after Belinda us show how the block had more than $1,000,000 in pledges and, we can all be very proud – even before the ‘for sale’ sign Bunter explained her ideas been designated the ‘town focal with Ozcrowd – an Australian of our shared passion which went up on the land. about crowdfunding: that we point’ with its iconic views ‘to crowd funding platform – but has brought our community Ben, myself, Garry and could try to raise funds towards be enhanced and protected’ for the donations stalled dramati- together like never before. Wendy formed a committee and a ‘Community bid’ ourselves. at least 20 years. very soon after, Belinda Bunter, That public meeting was As a business community who has run businesses in held only one week after the we always understood that any Huskisson for many years such campaign had officially started, purchase, by any government WIRIN WIRRA as The Waterhouse restaurant, and it resulted in a commitment body, would mean the site would came on board as an enthusi- from Shelley Hancock, Member need to be partially developed astic addition. Because of my for South Coast, who promised to become revenue-raising and Native Nursery media background I agreed to to hold a meeting with the three job-creating. We wanted to show Full range of locally grown flowering be spokesperson. tiers of government, and try to how we believed that the land We knew that many people see if there was any possible way could be developed possible by ornamentals, screening, local species & in the Jervis Bay area – business to get council, state and federal building underneath the block owners and residents alike were government, collectively, to find and thereby still preserving the bush food - tubestock to advanced all behind us, and we knew that a means to buy the block. Out of space, and the all important Wholesale Prices - All Welcome saving the block was a cause that that ‘three tiers meeting’, Mayor view, from Owen Street. united the entire community, Jo Gash called a Shoalhaven We were contacted by a Eftpos Available but I don’t think any of us real- City Council extraordinary very experienced Sydney town ised at the outset, just how huge meeting to discuss the block planner, who put us in touch 0488 332562 Mob and widespread the ground- issue to be held in mid January with Allen Jack + Cottier, one swell of support would be. – more than a month away. of Australia’s award-winning 4443 4029 Ph/Fax Within 24 hours of setting Officeworks in Nowra architecture firms. They agreed up a facebook account and the donated our printing costs for to create photo-montages and [email protected] change.org petition, we had our first few hundred urgent drawings of our idea to turn wirinwirra.com hundreds of fans and signa- posters and leaflets. Integrity the site into a ‘green-roof’ park/ tures, and they were all writing Real Estate Jervis Bay and amphitheatre with shops and Located crn. Evelyn Rd & Hill St, 6 Autumn 2015 #107 COMMUNITY NEWS The NBT supports local business which is such a vital part of our community . We also depend on local advertisers so with each issue of the paper we would like to introduce one such business both to inform and invite your support. This issue we have chosen a new local business that is changing the lives of women in developing communities…….

The Interior Trading communities have excellent floating homes then the women in Lao where there is a strong weaving patterns have been Company is working with handicraft skills but they do work their magic and create tradition of fine silk weaving lost and Kelly is working with women’s groups and non-gov- not have access to profitable beautiful baskets, placemats using all natural dyes to create weavers to recreate antique ernment organisations in south- markets. To make a living a and floor mats from the raw stunning ikat textiles with designs using the traditional east Asia to design and develop lot of women take up other material. At this stage there detailed designs. Many Laotian weaving and dying processes. a range of ethically produced work and traditional handicraft is very little being done about homewares for the Australian skills are sadly being lost.” says environmental weed issues in market. Kelly Upton from The Interior Cambodia as there are many “Many women in rural and Trading Company. other priorities. Through this remote areas of developing “I thought that if the product project we are able to provide was valued appropriately, then some basic education about the women artisans should environmental issues and work be able to make a good living to create stable employment from their skills, work in their opportunities for women and local community and actu- their families”. ally increase their income and The product range is always status by maintaining cultural expanding and now includes www.interiortradingco.com.au traditions.” an aromatics range of incense, Over the past two years handmade soaps, candles and ETHICALLY PRODUCED HOME WARES Kelly has been working with bath salts. There’s also lots of women’s groups to establish a beautiful batik and raw silk E: [email protected] supply of high quality, ethically cushions and woven sedge floor made products that are now mats. available in Australia in stores The latest project is based Ph: 0419 123 539 and online. “In Cambodia, one of the Enter Promo Code: NEWBUSHTELE worst environmental weeds is water hyacinth so we have during checkout to receive 10% discount developed a range of water hyacinth woven products. The Offer valid until May 31 2015 water hyacinth is harvested by hand, the stems are dried on the rooftops of the weaver’s Autumn 2015 #107 7 What Do You Negotiating A New & Know? Unexpected World GRAEME GIBSON www. An intended outcome from BERNADINE MORGAN was teaching Permaculture in energy production, using local morethanjusttalk.com. the forum was the formation Totnes, England. As part of this building materials, rethinking au of a reference group to make a n we face the chal- course he asked his students to how we manage waste, all build recommendations to Council. lenge of climate change imagine a future Totnes, one that resilience and offer the poten- rit e what you This was reported to Council in and still enjoy the ride? was happy, resilient and sustain- tial of an extraordinary renais- know” is a writer’s December: 100 years before Plato able for people and planet. Then sance – economic, cultural and maxim, so here’s a “Dune vegetation at Ccame on the scene, Heracitus, using permaculture principals, spiritual.” few things I know. Collingwood Beach has been (my new hero) wrote, “The only they mapped out what would Since 2005, thousands of WOr think I know. the subject of polarised views thing that is constant is change” need to change in order to bring Transition initiatives have been Elsewhere in the New Bush for some years. Some members I love change: the kind of that future into reality. established in diverse communi- Telegraph Kate Broadhurst has of the community believe change that governs the life of Walking around their town ties across the world. written about the campaign to some vegetation should be a young child as they negotiate they identified many endemic These communities have bring a block of land in Owen removed from the dune whilst their way around a new and practices, economic, social and started up projects around food, Street Huskisson into public others believe a more balanced unexpected world. Their life environmental that not only left energy, transport, education, ownership. The land is owned approach that preserves and is pretty much a rollercoaster the town vulnerable to external arts etc. as small-scale local by Club Jervis Bay (formerly the enhances the vegetation should of successes and failures but pressures (think GFC, low food responses to the global challenge Hukisson RSL). be adopted.” (Source: SCC Policy somehow with care, love and security, disaffected youth) but of climate change, economic The Club need to sell the and Resources Committee, 9 encouragement they flourish. also functioned in a way that hardship and shrinking supplies land, which is their right. They December 2014) Well, it is no revelation to contributed to our worlds no. 1 of cheap energy. need a decent price and are enti- What’s this you ask? A council observe that our world is not problem: the increasing use of Essentially, Transition is the tled to market value. Their pref- report highlighting a “more flourishing. As we continue fossil fuels. opposite of us sitting in our erence has been for Council to balanced approach” to preserve to push the balance of nature What emerged from this armchairs and complaining buy the land. and enhance dune vegetation! closer to tipping point, everyday exercise was a simple but inspi- about what’s wrong. It’s about Citing financial constraints Strewth! The Greenies must be scientists and environmentalists rational idea. Starting at the getting up and doing something Council decided, last October, running the show. Views will raise the climate alarm. level of your local community constructive about it, with our not to buy. The Save the Heart of disappear. Property values must Yes, climate change is a - take a proactive rather than neighbours, in our town. Huskisson campaign convinced surely plunge. A calamity in BIG story. But it is also a very a reactive approach - introduce Of course Transition is Council (at a January meeting) the making. This is clearly and personal one. It’s the story of new projects and initiatives an experiment, there are no to attempt to purchase the land. un-mistakenly biased reporting millions of individuals like you and shape the way the future certainties, but I’d rather live Save the Heart of Huskisson from the Council, favouring one and me: struggling to come to unfolds. in active hope than in passive has been urging Council to meet “side” in this issue. Something grips with a future scenario full To quote Rob Hopkins, “The despair. (Bound to be more with the club and the agent and must be done to restore of seemingly insurmountable time for seeing globalisation enjoyable, yes?) work it out – to everyone’s satis- objectivity. problems. as an invincible or unassail- What is certain? That with faction. At the time of writing, But hold on. I created a false- This is OUR story of transi- able behemoth, or localisation every choice we make today, we 10 days before tenders close hood. The actual passage from tion to a new and unexpected as some kind of lifestyle choice contribute in some way to our it isn’t known if this is taking the Council report is below: world. is over. The end of the Age of future story. In my preferred place. “Dune vegetation at And our story will unfold Cheap Oil is rapidly coming upon version, we not only survive, but But it seems to me a circuit Collingwood Beach has been according to how we respond to us, and life will radically change, flourish. breaker out of left field is needed. the subject of polarised views this challenge. whether we like it or not. And this is where the appoint- for some years. Some members About ten years ago a guy Rebuilding local agriculture https://www.transitionnetwork.org/ ment of the new Greek Finance of the community would like by the name of Rob Hopkins and food production, localising http://shoalhaventransition.org/ Minister, Yanis Varoufakis, to preserve and even enhance suggests a creative approach. the vegetation on the dune Varoufakis, a dual Greek- whilst others believe a more Australian national was an balanced approach that involves academic in the area of political vegetation removal should be economy at the University of adopted.” (Source: SCC Policy Sydney for more than 10 years. and Resources Committee, 9 His specialty of game theory is December 2014) about getting the best outcome The emphasis is mine and the from a difficult situation. It emphasis does show a clear loss shows how people can rationally of objectivity at best, outright come to a decision which is in bias in favour of a preferred the best interests of neither – but position at worst. still provides the best outcome. I’d like to be surprised at Applying game theory to this. I’m not. Council have this difficult situation will erase not responded to a request for lines previously drawn in the comment. sand. Council will pay a price Look out for the development it can live with. The Club will of a dune vegetation manage- accept a price it can live with. ment plan for Collingwood And the land comes into public Beach. Although specific to ownership. Any development just one area of Shoalhaven won’t impede the view. it’s likely to have implications Imagine what might be learnt anywhere there’s a tree in the from a new approach to diffi- way of someone’s outlook. cult situations. Harmony defeats * * * FOLLOW THE WOOL ROAD TOUR – 14-15 MARCH 2015 rancour. Game on. A proposal for a large devel- (Almost forgot the declara- opment between Kangaroo The National Parks and Wildlife Service is celebrating Parks Week tion. I live in Huskisson and Valley and Berry has stirred support the Save the Heart of a great deal of interest, the with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take a guided bus tour Huskisson campaign.) great majority of that interest * * * being opposition. More than exploring the region’s natural and cultural heritage sites. Vandalism of foreshore vege- 200 people attended a public tation at Collingwood Beach, meeting in Berry in December This fully catered guided tour follows traditional trading routes and Council’s wavering response and well over 100 submissions from the coast to the highlands, returning via the Wool Road, to it, reached such a spike of have been made. interest tinged with both resent- The Rockfield Park Eco camping overnight at historic Bungonia National Park. ment and disappointment that Tourist Resort includes 42 Council hosted a public forum accommodation units, 100 car Prices start at $150 twin share, including meals and tent hire. last July. I previously wrote spaces, 120 person function about this at http://www.more- centre, 90 seat restaurant, onsite For details visit www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au or phone the thanjusttalk.com.au/i-think- that-i-shall-never-see/ c ontinued on p. 8 NSW National Parks and Wildlife office in Nowra on02 4423 2170. 8 Autumn 2015 #107

What do You Know? continued from p.7

Squid Studio sewage treatment plant, pool/ definition of an eco-tourism and services, this is sometimes Sq uid Studio Nowra is an Squid Studio V.3 has planned gym and day spa facilities, wild- facility and there is nothing Eco used in cynical and mis-leading artist run initiative and culture a number of innovations for this life centre, and new residences. about this development – which spin. hub on the side of the Princes year including Squid Studio Opposition is based on envi- is really just a large hotel. The Australian Competition Highway heading south a block School of the Arts evenings, ronmental impacts (such as Precedent setting is feared. and Consumer Commission, down from Rd. This initi- music workshops, expanded art on-site sewage disposal, the With limited native vegetation provides a checklist in its publi- ative was established in 2012 exhibition opportunities and amount of water taken from and no environmental activities cation Green marketing and the through a participant proposal participation in international art aquifers), the traffic hazard (on in the proposal this is seen as a Australian Consumer Law. This to Renew Australia. Stockland events that extend into digital narrow, winding often foggy ploy to get around the planning advises: acuired the former Clyde art practices. roads), and the questionable controls. “Make sure any claims you Poulton Real Estate building Squid welcomes proposals permissibility of this develop- People of course are often make about your product can and have included part of this from local culture workers who ment on the land in question. tempted to try and get around be substantiated. Think about building in their Stockland would like to exhibit, perform Under the Shoalhaven obstacles. When The Planning how you would answer a query Spaces project, which provides and stage workshops onsite. Local Environment Plan 2014, Assessment Commission regarding the environmental local arts and cultural industry Drop a line into the rockpool via the land is zoned RU1 which knocked back the residential benefits you are claiming about activities access to commercial [email protected] and we can disallows hotels or motels. development and golf course in your product. For example, property that is affordable. send you our monthly updates Ecotourism IS allowed on RU1, the Shaolin Foundations plans what scientific authority could The basis of tenancy through about exhibitions and other however opponents claim the for Comberton Grange, Mayor you use to justify the basis of Renew Australia is not a tradi- activities Squid is hosting. proposal does not meet the SLEP Gash said she would be meeting your claim?” tional commercial lease and any with Shaolin representatives Meet your definitions, in of the parties involved in this to try and get around the deci- other words. arrangement can give 30 days High Flight sion. Getting the job done. Well For more detail see notice of termination. A reality Oh! I have slipped in the surly bonds of Earth trying, anyway. RA14/1004 at DA Tracking on that some might find difficult to And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings; One of the most curious Council’s website. The final consider. Sunward I’ve climbed, and joined the tumbling mirth aspects of the Rockfield Park decision will be made by the On February 1st 2015 Jillian Of sun-split clouds – and done a hundred things claims to be Eco was a proposal Joint Regional Planning Panel Hayden signed up to explore You have not dreamed of – wheeled and soared and swung to establish a breeding program after a hearing in February. the third iteration of this site. High in the sunlit silence. Hov’ring there, for the endangered Brush- * Over the previous 2 years Jen I’ve chased the shouting wind along, and flung tailed rock-wallaby. A small I have a variation on write Saunders and then Lissa Jane de My eager craft through footless halls of air . . . population of these does exist what you know. It’s “write Sailles have built a following for Up, up the long, delirious burning blue in Kangaroo Valley, but there what you want to know”, art exhibitions, workshops and I’ve topped the wind-swept heights with easy grace, was no likelihood of this ever which for me means writing as performance events that have Where never lark, or even eagle flew - going ahead. While a creative a means to understand. And I seen this potentially abandoned And, while with silent, lifting mind I’ve trod and superficially appealingwant to better understand the site transformed. The high untrespassed sanctity of space, approach, this was viewed by conflicted conundrum that is Put out my hand and touched the face of God. John Magee many as deliberately deceptive. Lake Wollumboolla. That part of the proposal has With high conservation My Country been withdrawn. values and international recog- I love a sunburnt country, Green marketing is an nition for its significance as bird A land of sweeping plains, increasingly popular appeal habitat there’s a proposal to Of rugged mountain ranges, to caring folk to consider the build a golf course in it’s catch- Of droughts and flooding rains. environment in buying their ment. Supported by you know I love her far horizons, various goods and services. who. I love her jewel-sea While it is legitimate to market Never dull in Shoalhaven. Her beauty and her terror - an environmentally responsible The price of freedom is eternal The wide brown land for me! Dorothea Mackellar approach to producing goods vigilance.