The Eurobodalla Shire Council built the Batemans Bay Primary School and transferred it to the Education Department. In return, the council received the old school site on which the Village Centre is located and conducted the tender process.

The council pursued the University of Wollongong and NSW Tafe to establish facilities integrated with the Batemans Bay Library, enabling students to study locally.

Apart from introducing Eurobodalla Tourism - a co-ordinated approach to Tourism Management and Promotion - I chaired South Coast Regional Tourism for 15 years when some of the most successful campaigns were conducted.

I chair Regional Development Australia, Far South Coast. Opportunities there have seen funding for alternate energy that has saved the shire thousands of dollars, $4-5 million for Moruya Airport and funds to extend Moruya Library.

As head of Cancer Carers, we have, with fantastic community support, raised $275,000 and won a new Oncology Unit at Moruya Hospital.

I have a long commitment to the growth and betterment of our shire. You won’t always agree with my decisions, but you will understand my reasons: the greatest good for the greatest number.

A small group of dedicated whingers will never unduly influence rational and fair decisions.

Do we need to get things moving? Yes. As a self-employed businessman (33 years in this shire), common sense in decisions and empathy for businesses are paramount.

I am proud of my achievements and hope to continue after September 10.

The pre-election mayoral announcement that the council has purchased the dormant Bateman’s Bay Bowling club raises many questions. I am not distracting from its potential short-term use for the community, however, it has been interpreted by some that it was purchased to enhance re-election. As community money was used, the general manager must release all details surrounding this decision. I am grateful for the tireless work of the Bateman Bay Historical Society in researching and cataloging records, including the club opening in 1950 and the third green in 1965. Extensions were made in 1971, 1973, 1980 and in the 1990’s. 

NSW Fair Trading has written to thousands of owners of properties built before the 1980s and given virtually no option than to register for asbestos inspection or face the music.The council has a responsibility to notify the government for testing clearance and compliance with relevant codes for the licensing of council controlled reserves and buildings, including its Moyura offices and chambers. Has this been carried out? The NSW Roads and Maritime Service says feasibility studies for a second or replacement bridge are underway. Elevation of any future works and services to comply with sea level rises predicted will be necessary. Properties and approaches on both sides of the Clyde River, including much of the commercial areas and the club, may be severely compromised. The public is rarely swayed by pork barreling and white elephants costing a  $2.5 million rate rise when politicians grab for straws prior to an election. The survival of both areas is at a critical stage!

Peter Bernard, Dalmeny

I and the family from Killarney Farm, Tilba Tilba, thank all who helped out during my wife Pam’s illness.

The care and compassion shown during this difficult time by all the district nurses, Dr Tracey from Cobargo, the nurses in Oncology in Bega and especially our family and friends, and paramedic Brett Lenz, who stayed by Pam’s side through the last stages of this very difficult time.

Words cannot express how grateful we all are.

Kevin Hayden

Tilba Tilba

As reported last week, former resident Dee Robinson passed away unexpectedly in Adelaide.

Her partner Anthony had no idea how he would be able to pay for her funeral, let alone get Dee back to Narooma. Many have donated money for her funeral, and, with the help of Russell from Afterlife/Dreamtime Funerals in Narooma, having Dee bought home has been made possible. Such kindness and generosity should be acknowledged. Russell does a lot of compassionate deeds under the radar, so, on behalf of us all, “thank you”. Dee’s funeral will be held on September 2, at 1pm at Broulee Memorial Gardens.

Kris and Sylvia Gauslaa

Dalmeny

I thank Tony Casu and his team for their generous support of a community event I recently facilitated at Club Narooma. 

The Dying to Know Expo would not have been the success it was, but for the club's extensive time, promotion and sponsorship of the event.

No request was too difficult to fulfil, and I am grateful for their continued support of this community. 

I would also like to thank the 24 exhibitors who showed their commitment by taking a day out to show the services and products available locally that ensure our community members live well right to the very end.

Shanna Provost

Narooma​