Motorists, politicians and media commentators often talk about it, but how many people know what lies within the land set aside in 1951 for a future extension of the F6 motorway?
Independent filmmaker Sumi Skellam counts herself among those with limited knowledge about the road reservation, which passes through swamps, parks, playgrounds and sports fields in St George and Sutherland Shire.
Ms Skellam set out to inform herself and those involved in the debate, including the politicians who will ultimately make the decision on any road extension.
She used maps and historical archive footage from Rockdale Council and articles from the Leader.
The result is a 22-minute documentary, The Corridor, (above) which examines the route section between Cooks River and Georges River.
The film was released on Sunday June 7, on the internet.
Former ABC journalist and news anchor Tracey Kirkland, who lives in the shire, presents the documentary, made by Eucalyptus Leaf Films, which Ms Skellam started three years ago.
"I think the opportunity existed because I live in the St George area and I wasn't aware of what was in the corridor space, and nobody was talking about it," Ms Skellam said.
"I thought it would be a good idea to put all the facts on the table."
Ms Skellam said the film investigated the conflict between the desire to hold on to natural areas and the ever-pressing push for development.
It includes images of the environment within the corridor, and information on costs and other matters relevant to building a road in a tunnel or surface level.
There are also interviews with experts, residents and politicians.
"It explores arguments for and against, but ultimately leaves the viewer to make up their own mind," she said.
Rockdale Mayor Shane O’Brien went to a special preview screening of the documentary recently. He was also interviewed for the film.
‘‘I think this is a great way to inform residents about the impact the F6 motorway will have on the sporting parks and amenities as it cuts through our suburbs,’’ Cr O’Brien said.
‘‘Our community stands to lose a valuable and irreplaceable land resource.
‘‘The F6 must be built in a way that accommodates the needs of our growing city while sparing playing fields and habitat.’’
FEASIBILITY STUDY
Last year’s state budget provided $11million for a feasibility study into extending the F6.
The study was to look at the route through St George and the shire and upgrading the route from Heathcote through Menai and Alfords Point to the M5 motorway.
The results have yet to be released.
Visit: facebook.com/the.corridor.doco to see more.