BREAKING: Tensions escalate between Cook MP Simon Kennedy and the Sutherland Shire Council over urgent beach erosion issues affecting Bate Bay and Port Hacking. At a heated council meeting, Carol Provan, a long-serving councillor, dismissed Kennedy’s petition, which has garnered over 800 signatures, as “a myth” and “emotionally charged.”
The petition, spearheaded by Kennedy, demands immediate government action to address the persistent erosion of Bate Bay beaches and the dredging of Port Hacking, vital for protecting the local marine ecosystem. “Locals have pushed for a permanent solution for years, and their persistence is starting to pay off,” Kennedy declared, emphasizing the community’s frustration with local government inaction.
Provan countered Kennedy’s claims, suggesting that the council’s scientific reports contradict his assertions. She reaffirmed the council’s commitment to routine dredging, proposing a timeline for the next operation between April and September 2027. “The last dredging was conducted almost three years ago, and we aim for a cycle of every four to five years,” she stated.
Kennedy’s petition calls for a collaborative approach involving all levels of government to develop science-based solutions. The grassroots initiative is backed by the C Care Group, formed by three passionate locals to unite residents and experts in the fight for beach restoration. “What our community wants is simple: for Council to work with us and experts to secure a funded plan,” Kennedy urged.
The council meeting also highlighted the ongoing need for long-term solutions, as noted by Cr Kal Glanznig, who is currently attending the COP30 climate summit in Brazil. He referenced the Bate Bay Coastal Management Plan, which outlines necessary actions for sustainable beach management. “We’re working to secure funding from the state government to alleviate the financial burden on ratepayers,” he affirmed.
As the community rallies for immediate action, the urgency of the situation cannot be overstated. The erosion threatens not only the local environment but also the recreational and economic activities dependent on a healthy beach ecosystem. The council’s historical resistance to shifting costs to the state government raises questions about future funding and support for necessary environmental projects.
Residents are urged to remain engaged as discussions continue. The growing support for Kennedy’s petition signals a shift in public sentiment, pushing for accountability and action from local authorities. “Council has not listened for too long, but that may finally be changing,” Kennedy concluded, igniting hope among community members for a sustainable future for Bate Bay.
Authorities confirm that immediate community involvement is essential to achieve lasting solutions. As both sides prepare for further discussions, the outcome will significantly impact the health of Bate Bay beaches and Port Hacking waterways. Stay tuned for the latest updates on this developing story.
