Re the article ‘‘Bayside digs in on erosion’’ (Leader, October 31) and the call for state government to take more responsibility for Botany Bay beach erosion.
I was pleased to read the state government has decided to give a grant to Bayside Council for remediation (move sand from one end of Lady Robinsobs Beach to the other) which is washed to Dolls Point.
I, like Cr Andrew Tsounis, can see the long term impact human intrusion has caused along Botany Bay foreshores.
Environmental activists like Bernie Clarke, Nancy Hillier and Bob Walshe, called out both Labor and Liberal governments before the airport was extended and Port Botany was built.
Those of us who remember the great storms which hit Brighton in the 1960-70 period, under mining cannons and pine trees which sank in the bay, are clear what continuing dredging for shipping can cause.
And now a cruise ship terminal is proposed at Yarra Bay, La Perouse, which will require yet more dredging.
I can see yet another grant application in 18 months for double the amount requested.
Time for state and federal governments to establish a science based authority to look after Botany Bay’s long term good health.
The present arrangement where councils, private companies, and public servants all try to do their own thing leaving taxpayers to pick up the pieces, just doesn’t work.
Brian Shaw, Chair
Botany Bay and Catchment Alliance
