Group presents dredging petition

Ettalong Beach Business Group has organised a petition with more than 4000 signatures calling for immediate action over the dredging of Ettalong channel.

The petition was handed to Member for Terrigal Mr Chris Hartcher on September 1, with the promise of tabling it in State Parliament when it resumed on September 23.

Group representative Ms Lindy Wilson said: "Following the alarming news that the channel had become unsafe for commercial and leisure craft, the petition was circulated among businesses in Ettalong, Umina, Hardy's Bay and Davistown in an effort to gauge public opinion on the issue.

"The response was overwhelming with over 4000 signatures collected to date.

"The group's aim is to foster the best interests of Ettalong, so the loss of boating access is seen as a vital lifeline for the community."

A letter was sent by the Ettalong Beach Business Group on August 7 to Gosford councillors, Member for Gosford Ms Marie Andrews, former NSW Premier Mr Morris Iemma and Minister for Lands Mr Tony Kelly "urging a resolution to the issue and advising them of the petition".

"As the Ettalong Beach Business Group is non-political, the intention was to give the petition to whoever could use it to get the dredging done," Ms Wilson said.

"The signatures were submitted to council on August 14, for inclusion in the minutes of the next council meeting.

"Chris Hartcher contacted us and asked for a copy so he could take it to the New South Wales Government and possibly expedite a speedy solution.

"That has now been done and the group awaits a reply from the new front bench of the NSW Government."

"This issue has been on the agenda for the last 18 months," Ms Wilson said.

"While all levels of government procrastinate and shift blame the channel is not getting any safer.

"We support negotiations to accept the $250,000 offered by the State Government to at least make a start on the dredging process with a view to a long-term maintenance program."

Press release, 10 Sep 2008 Lindy Wilson, Ettalong Beach Business Group