Jetskis threaten peace of tourist destination

Coastal charm really describes our beautiful region.

Recent tourism research shows 66 per cent of visitors surveyed come to the Coast simply to relax and rest.

We have wonderful amenities, bushland, services, beaches and lakes for this relaxation.

It would, however, be important for any campaign to consider not including any images or references to jet ski activity.

A small group of people benefit from jet skis and enjoy themselves at the expense of a lot of other people's rest and relaxation time.

They are bullies in our playground.

Skis have increased in numbers in each of the recent five years.

The sounds of summer will not just be cicadas or cockatoos.

Instead, just like our feathered noisy birds, these guys will make their presence felt.

The noise, speed and antics upset quiet fishing, a relaxing nap, picnics and quiet time on the beach.

Groaning motors, smelly fumes, yelling bad language and their constant returns to the waterfront is annoying.

Would you call it restful?

One of the most affected areas is from Blackwall Point Wharf around to half-tide Rocks.

Mostly on the weekends, long weekends, Easter, Christmas, school holidays and on New Year's Day, as well as Australia Day last year, it was bedlam.

The little Ettalong beaches are now being overtaken by flocks of jet skis.

This summer we will see a repeat of confrontations, anger, upset and probably more trailers parked on grassland at the Ettalong esplanade.

What is happening in your area?

Where do they go?

Up to the Gosford Sailing Club?

Affinity and local tourism businesses plan to market our area.

This marketing should not include images or references to jet skis as being what this area wants as part of its seaside culture.

You can consider joining the lobby to ban jet skis on our Brisbane waterway.

Be ethical when you invite tourists here to rest and relax.

Consider sending a letter or email to the ranger at Council, Ms Julie Vaughn, director of connected communities at Council, and also to Ms Liesel Tesch our Local Member.

Perhaps, you could even write to the paper about your experience with jet skis and how they affect you and your friends.

Let us reclaim our fun playground so that visitors and locals cans enjoy their rest and relaxation without the sound of a swarm of bees.

Reclaim the qualities and values that make our area special.

Return to the fun and restful times by the sea.

Email, 13 Dec 2017

Arlene Bridges, Woy Woy