03/09/2024
🌿 Building a Better Future for Eurobodalla Shire 🌿
As our beautiful Eurobodalla Shire continues to grow, it's essential that we embrace smart and sustainable development. I believe in smart infill development - where we focus on building up rather than spreading out into suburbia. This approach not only preserves our natural environment but also supports a vibrant, sustainable community.
However, I also recognize the need for diverse housing options, including family homes and social housing, to ensure that everyone in our community has a place to call home.
I understand how frustrating it is for our community to want more housing while being deeply concerned about the risks of wholesale, poorly planned development that could wreck our natural areas. We don’t have to choose one or the other. My goal in running for Council is to ensure that Eurobodalla grows with purpose, balancing development with the preservation of our stunning natural surroundings.
I’ve heard the fear that Batemans Bay and other towns could turn into the next Gold Coast. Let’s be clear—this fear is the ultimate form of NIMBYism and fearmongering. Would you prefer our bush areas being totally cleared for sprawling suburbia, with housing options only suitable for employed families? What about retirees wanting to downsize, disabled people striving to live independently, or young people eager to start their lives in apartments or townhouses that they can afford to rent?
As I pointed out in the About Regional article, the Gold Coast’s Broadbeach and Surfers Paradise beach front narrow strip has an average height of 30 to 60 stories. Even if we allowed more height in the Bay, it would be 10, maybe 20 stories at most. I’m tired of hearing people claim they want housing... but only the kind they deem acceptable. This mindset is the thinking of the privileged who feel entitled to keep things as they are for themselves yet happily claiming green platforms whilst in truth denying the variety of housing options that could benefit people of all ages and abilities in our area.
And side note imagine this—how great would it be to green the roofs of the Pelican Plaza and other shops so the view as you enter the Bay is lush and green, not just the tops of boring malls? Or to have apartments with living, green vertical walls?
Let's embrace our growth and do it right, creating a bright future for all. Let's be the leader in how this can be done well.
Together, let's build a stronger, more sustainable Eurobodalla. 🌱