Each week leading up to the Local Government Elections on
September 14, the Clarence Valley Independent will publish answers to questions provided to all 17 candidates who have nominated for the 9 positions on Council. We hope that by reading the answers of each of the candidates, it will provide some insight into how nominees feel about “ordinary” issues.
All 17 candidates agreed to participate in answering this week’s three questions listed below.
Question 4: How important is the Council role in the promotion of tourism within the Clarence Valley?
Question 5: The development on floodplain land has created some concern within the Clarence Valley. What are your thoughts on any future development approval on flood prone land?
Question 6: Do you feel the smaller Clarence Valley villages and their communities get a fair go?
Lynne Cairns
Question 4 – Councils role in tourism is one of an essential leadership role and as Council is not playing that role the Valley has hundreds of disconnected businesses. Tourism is so important to the local economy and local employment.
Years ago, Council dismissed the local Industry Committee, Clarence River Tourist Association Inc. (CRTA) that effectively ran local tourism for decades. Council sold off the assets including the award-winning South Grafton Visitor Information Centre (VIC). CRTA won numerous Regional and State Awards.
Tourism enquiries to the VIC and Ferry Park were more than 100,000 face-to-face enquiries per year to the VIC and Ferry Park. It operated 363 days a year, from 9am to 5pm.
The Grafton Regional Gallery now operates as a visitor centre, with approximately 4,000 face-to-face tourism enquiries per year. The hours of opening are not capturing the tourist trade, parking is very limited, and it is not in a suitable location to attract visitors.
The CRTA formulated a beautiful tourist book which promoted the whole Valley providing events, places to visit, maps, advertising businesses and more. It paid for itself through advertising. The book is no longer available.
Since 1990, commercially zoned properties continue to pay a special rate levee which is imbedded in the rates. This is not spent on tourism; it is deposited in Council’s general fund.
I believe tourism needs to be far better promoted and resourced to encourage visitors, and to assist and stimulate businesses in the whole Valley.
Question 5 – I believe there should be a moratorium to stop development on the floodplain in the Valley. Development on the floodplain is something akin to madness. Filling the floodplain results in small island mounds that will be isolated in even a small flood or substantial stormwater event, with no means of safe, emergency evacuation either by boat or helicopter. This does not appear to me to be justifiable.
Yamba was cut off, without warning, in the 2022 flood events. If people needed to be evacuated it would require a military grade exercise as there would be about 1,000 or more people requiring evacuation.
Developments on the floodplain in Yamba, particularly down Carrs Drive, caused stormwater flooding through existing homes, followed by riverine flooding when the flood crest reached Yamba two days later in 2022. The flooding in homes and on properties is detrimentally impacting people’s lives and livelihoods.
Future development OFF the floodplain is essential.
In June 2024, I provided evidence in NSW Parliament House Sydney to the Parliamentary Inquiry about the “planning system and the impacts of climate change on the environment and communities.” I have also presented to the Land and Environment Court about an unsustainable development.
Question 6 – It would be difficult for a small village to be heard over other larger towns in the Valley and the demands for funds from Council.
Perhaps grant funds spent on the Treelands Drive Community Centre in Yamba could have been used for genuine relief in Copmanhurst, Ewingar or a hall for Nymboida. This opportunity was lost.
Also, tourism should be shared around, rather than just the coastal fringe, highlighting hinterland small villages, with more emphasis on art, history and food-based industries.
I will continue to support the smaller Clarence Valley villages and their communities, as I have already recently done so on a number of occasions.
All I could promise is that, if elected, I would listen closely to all residents who wish to approach me, to provide information and concerns and, where financially feasible, seek the support of Council.
Steve Pickering
Question 4 – Clarence Valley Council play a significant role in the promotion of tourism in the valley. Tourism is our second largest sector, after agriculture. It employs many people and brings money into our towns and villages. Council have recently endorsed a Destination Management Plan (DMP) which looks at tourism in the valley, what’s done well and what can be improved. Tasks have been laid out for the next few years and the actions have already started. Tourism in our valley needs to be well managed, our villages and towns each have a unique charm which needs to be retained, tourists need to be encouraged to leave the coastal areas and explore our hinterland. The Destination Management Plan was created after extensive community consultation and is designed to align with the NSW and Northern Rivers tourism strategies. The DMP is a document which supports a managed approach to tourism, encouraging fully accessible targets, a large focus on our natural environment and building on experiences and memories.
Question 5 – The Clarence Valley is 10,500Km’s in size with the mighty Clarence River at its centre. Most of our population live on flood prone land. The Clarence River has always flooded and will continue to flood. Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and severity of floods into the future. Council has recently reviewed flood planning levels, these are the floor heights for all new homes. The heights have generally increased. The new heights rely on the recently adopted flood model with 1% AEP flood height, which is similar to a 1 in 100 event, along with predicted climate change increases due to flooding and a 500mm free board. The NSW state government set the legislation on planning and developments and council need to follow the legislation and guidelines. Both the previous NSW Premier and the Prime Minister have said there will be no more building on flood plains but neither have currently introduced legislation to enact this. Council need to follow the rules set by state and federal government and until the planning legislation is changed, council need to assess developments on the legislation as it currently stands.
Question 6 – I think our smaller villages were somewhat forgotten for a long time. This is changing, Council first engaged the Ulmarra community to formulate a precinct plan then the Harwood community worked with council to develop a plan for their village’s future, Lawrence was next. These community focused plans allow for council to start working on the easily achievable items and also to start applying for grants to work on the higher value items. I believe Glenreagh may be the next village to receive attention. While these projects are happening, council are also working on other smaller projects with our villages, things like the Celebrate Wooli festival which happens on August 30th. At the start of the current council term, councillor visited most of our towns and villages, both to listen to the community to build the Community Strategic Plan and also as part of our Councillor Listening Tours. I have advocated and supported our smaller towns and villages and if re-elected I will continue doing this.
Justin James
Question 4 – The Council plays a pivotal role in shaping and promoting tourism in our Valley, a responsibility that carries significant impact on our local economy and community identity. While there have been numerous criticisms of past tourism strategies, it’s essential that we view these not as failures, but as opportunities to learn and improve. Every initiative, whether successful or not, provides valuable insights into what works and what doesn’t.
As a professional in the advertising industry, I understand the complexities and challenges of marketing. Even with the best intentions, thorough research, and strategic planning, campaigns can sometimes fall short of expectations, failing to deliver the anticipated return on investment. This is a reality in any sector, and tourism is no exception.
With this understanding, I am committed to bringing a constructive, informed perspective to our tourism efforts if elected. I believe in the importance of data-driven decisions, ongoing evaluation, and a willingness to adapt strategies based on real-world outcomes.
Question 5 – The immediate risks of building on floodplains are clear—property damage, threats to public safety, and disruption to communities. However, the long-term implications are equally concerning. One of the most pressing issues is the increasing difficulty in obtaining affordable insurance for these developments. In some areas of the Valley, residents and businesses are already facing prohibitive insurance costs or, in extreme cases, the inability to secure coverage at all. This not only places a financial burden on property owners but also threatens the viability of entire communities.
We must approach floodplain development with caution, prioritising the safety and financial security of our residents. I believe in advocating for smarter, more resilient planning that takes into account the realities of our environment. By doing so, we can protect our communities from the escalating risks associated with floodplain development and ensure a sustainable future for the Clarence Valley.
Question 6 – It’s no secret that smaller villages within a larger Local Government Area (LGA) can sometimes be overshadowed by the needs and concerns of more populated areas. This isn’t necessarily a result of intentional neglect, but rather the reality that larger voices are often heard more readily. However, every corner of our community deserves equal attention and resources, regardless of size or population.
I firmly believe that the collective power of small businesses and community groups is the key to ensuring these areas are not overlooked. When these entities come together, they create a stronger, more unified voice that the Council cannot ignore. By fostering collaboration and encouraging grassroots movements, we can amplify the needs and aspirations of our smaller communities.
My goal is to support and empower these groups, ensuring they have the platforms and opportunities to be heard. Together, we can ensure that the unique character, needs, and potential of every village are recognized and valued equally, leading to a more balanced and inclusive approach to governance across the Clarence Valley.
Debrah Novak
Question 4 –Council just signed off on a 5 year Destination Management Plan this week at its last meeting. Tourism is rated as a priority by businesses in the community strategic plan.
Question 5 – I did a Notice of Motion on this matter on the back of 2022 floods. Councils building codes have been updated using Best Practice and the DCP has also been updated to reflect community concerns. There are still a number of zombie DA’s in place which can be regulated through the consent condition process when they come before Council. Council is half way through an all of catchment flood study which will inform how we do things in the future. Added to this are the Northern Rivers Reconstruction Authorities DRAFT Adaptation Plans which will inform the future of planning, recovery and resilience in our region. On the back of this great change developers should be offered an opt out card, either as a buy back or land swap.
Question 6 – This is the hardest question of all as the Clarence Valley has 60 villages. Everyone receives the same level of maintenance however some of the villages are receiving extra love via renewal programs which have been funded by grants. These villages include Ulmarra Precinct, Glenreagh signage and bridge works, Coutts Xing bridgeworks, Harwood Cultural Precinct, Ewingar new RFS shed, Brooms Head Holiday Park upgrade, Dundarribin Hall kitchen refit, Coaldale Hall Kitchen upgrade and Townsend Community Precinct upgrade and many other projects.
Andrew Baker
Question 4 – I’m not convinced Council spending on tourism promotion is beneficial. Beneficial to all or even most of the ratepayers and residents that is. I can’t imagine how spending ratepayer money to attract more tourists can possibly be beneficial when we seem to be overrun already. I’ve certainly not yet been able to find a believable cost/benefit measurement of council tourism spend despite years of trying to get information. Information that is, that’s not blatantly self-serving to the author. For me, spending that money on basic cosmetic maintenance and upkeep of our area would be far more beneficial to all who live and visit here.
Most tellingly for me; during the 2016-2021 council term I proposed and had unanimously adopted that Council constitute a tourism committee comprised of interested tourism operators, business people, members of the public and councillors. Despite widespread advertising by Council inviting nominations, there was not one single offer to participate received from the tourism industry, business or the public. Not one. I then made my own enquiries of tourist business owners I knew. All I discovered was that the business owners prefer to do their own targeted promotions – and they’d prefer council spending priority be basics of signage, roads, parks, gardens and more mowing. I’ve not discovered any different attitudes at all since.
Question 5 – It is a fact reasonably well known to most that floodplains do flood occasionally. It seems a few people do still get a surprise when we get a flood after a lot of rain. Flooding is the way it’s always been. The majority of Clarence Valley residents live, work, farm, travel and play on the floodplain. And almost all that majority do so willingly and happily in full knowledge that the floodplain does flood from time to time. And occasionally it’s a bit of a nuisance.
As to development of the floodplain: Certainly, some parts of the floodplain should be completely off limits to all development. And some off limits to residential. Those areas are well mapped and that mapping is available at Council to anyone interested. Some parts are suitable and always have been. Residential occupation above all calculated minimum floor heights has potential to capitalise on existing infrastructure and resources. Filling in some places preferably by dredging is sensible to help with achieving that minimum floor height. To sterilise the type of locations that have served the population so well for so long because a few people have recently turned up and now want a ‘no-flood, happy life’ would be overly indulgent of the silliness of a few at the cost of the majority in my view. None of this is to say that it should be compulsory (it’s not now) for people to live in dwellings that are on the floodplain.
Question 6 – I don’t know how to answer this one properly. My guess is; relative to population – all areas are probably treated fairly – although not necessarily in the same year. I would certainly like to see more done for smaller villages, but I’d also like to see more for all towns and villages and everywhere in between. The dilemma for me is; how does council achieve more? Given a strict budget limit to manage without borrowing or increased rates income, spending more in one area means less somewhere else. My experience is that budget allocation is one of the great challenges for council staff, management and councillors. I have no genius solution/s to the constant demands of budget allocations – except to say that councillors capable of understanding and working with the budget and financial essentials of a large and diverse organisation are important to getting the best outcomes for all parts of the council area and its residents.
Des Schroder
Question 4 – The tourism and hospitality sector is crucial to employment in the Clarence Valley employing over 2000 people, eight percent of total jobs, the sector generates over $380 million (source economic ID). Promotion of tourism is a traditional role of Councils across the state supporting the hundreds of small businesses that make up the sector in each Council area. Many other small businesses like agriculture and forestry have whole State Government departments dedicated to supporting them, tourism doesn’t. All our adjoining neighbouring Councils invest heavily in tourism promotion, meaning if Clarence doesn’t, we will fall
behind. This does not mean you need expensive information centres in this digital age My Clarence tourism Facebook site has 39000 followers alone. The pressure on rates and cost of living pressures means Council simply can’t afford the centres. You do though need dedicated tourism marketing staff who know the sector developing the website and providing businesses in the sector with digital and hard copy access. Pop up sites at big events is also crucial.
Question 5 – I think in many ways this is a backward-looking question no new zoning of land in flood prone areas has been done by Council for two decades. All new zonings since West Yamba (only after I might say major community consultation by Maclean Council), have been in flood free areas at Junction Hill, Clarenza, Gulmarrad and James Creek -comprising in total over 3000 lots, most of which yet are still to be developed. It’s unlikely this new Council will need to, or the Department of Planning will allow new zonings until this land bank is close to exhaustion. It will be very hard to find new flood free land in the lower valley in the future as flooding in combination with high ecological values severely limits land availability. When land supply becomes limited this unfortunately puts upper pressure on house prices and hence affordability for locals due to a lack of new housing- putting extreme pressure on our small business’s to find service staff who can’t afford to live in these communities, this will includes chefs, wait staff, cleaners, teachers, trades, nurses etc. Affordable and social housing is one of the biggest issues facing all coastal Councils as the wealthy city sea changers and tree changers move here and continue to accelerate house prices. But obviously my view is there should be no more rezoning on flood prone areas for housing.
Question 6 – My election platform promises the villages I won’t forget you and we will visit you. I know all the villages in the valley well and I learnt a lot about the upper catchment villages and communities, when I spent months in them with recovery following the terrible 2019 bushfires. A lot has been done in these villages since the fires to make them more resilient which includes hall upgrades and the huge investment in concrete bridges to prevent them burning again. I remember the long trips through Dorrigo to get to fire recovery meetings at Dundurrabin the fires destroying the Clouds Creek bridge and the detours with burnt out bridges on the Coaldale road to get to Ewingar. Not only is it looking after the villages themselves and their halls, parks, toilets, beaches (and access), playgrounds but the roads access in and out is just as crucial. In addition, in fire prone areas safe refugees are essential. I think Council given its resources has done a reasonable job with our forty plus villages, but my promise is to not to forget them.
Shane Causley
Question 4 – Tourism is a significant benefit to the economy of the Clarence Valley, supporting many local businesses and creating jobs. Councils’ role is vital to ensuring visitors have a great experience, including well maintained facilities, plenty of information on local attractions and support of events. We have a wonderful environment for tourists to visit. From our quaint villages to our magnificent river our unique national parks, flora and fauna. It’s councils’ job to preserve this for future generations.
Question 5 – Future sustainable development should occur away from the flood plain on flood free land. This should be a prerequisite on all future housing developments. This idea of putting fill on low lying ground just raises the flood risk to existing houses. Yamba residents shouldn’t have to suffer more flooding as a side effect of new developments.
Question 6 – More could be done. The villages of the Clarence valley are the jewel in the crown. I think Harwood Island would benefit greatly if the proposed riverfront precinct would go ahead. The area north of the school could be cleaned up and turned into park land. Adequate community consultation needs to foreshadow this. The area of Woombah is asking for a community hall. It did recently receive a fabulous children’s playground. These are just a few in my local area. There are many more in the Clarence that would benefit. Although not classed as a village, Maclean would benefit greatly from a proposed riverfront precinct showcasing our mighty river.
Ray Smith
Question 4 – The council plays a vital role in the promotion of tourism through the provision of tourism infrastructure such as the recent completion of the Grafton River Walk and the Ulmarra riverside precinct. The council has a significant tourism budget that goes toward the support of major events such as the Jacaranda Festival and the Maclean Highland Gathering as well as supporting Sports Tourism through the provision of first-class sporting facilities. The recently adopted Destination Management Plan 2024=2030 is also evidence of the importance that Council places on tourism in the Clarence Valley and the need for Council to continue to provide financial and logistical support to enhance the visitor economy.
Question 5 – The development on floodplain land certainly has created concern within the Clarence Valley and I believe that council needs to be cognisant of the potential detrimental effects such development can have, but council also needs to find the right balance between future development in these areas and the benefits that could accrue to the wider community as opposed to any adverse outcomes. Council is often bound by existing zoning regulations that can create a dilemma when considering development applications that comply with all of the necessary planning requirements but have strong community sentiment against a particular development. Council’s refusal of a development that complies could well end up as a matter in the Land and Environment Court at the expense to ratepayers and therefore council needs to have compelling reasons for such a refusal. These are the difficult decisions that the newly elected council will need to make and, if elected, my decisions will be based on consideration of all of the available facts, the sentiments of the community and what my conscious tells me is right.
Question 6 – I have been reading the council document ‘Vibrant Places’ which I believe is an attempt by council to improve the amenity in our smaller villages and, if elected, I would support the continuation of this initiative to ensure that the Valley’s smaller villages are not forgotten or neglected. These villages provide special and unique experiences for visitors whether they are from outside the Valley or local residents from the major centres. If elected I would advocate for an ongoing program of identified improvements and inclusion in the annual budgets of sufficient funds to implement such a program. The Clarence Valley is such a diverse area and the allocation of priorities between the major centres and the smaller villages will always be a challenge for the elected representatives.
Melissa Hellwig
Question 4 – Given there is NO stand-alone Tourism centre/agency – seems promotion may be more important than there are resources for?
In my travels with family, places with thriving Information centres are where we spend more time and money – which makes us more likely to return. I think of places like Hay in the far Central West of NSW. Or Uralla. Small towns punching well above their weight. Council ought to consider returning to the quasi-independent model. I think a renewed effort would be valuable. There are no hubs in any of the small villages, in the ranges or Yamba. An opportunity missed.
That said – our #My Clarence Valley branding resources are great! We also need to look past basic accommodation tourism as a key revenue source. We have so many add-ons, attractions, immersions and activities – so celebrating and giving them visibility is key. And not only online. Many travellers are still map users! The chance to stumble along and discover something in person is still precious – rather than simply following an Instagram handle….
Question 5 – This is a complex and painful topic. For thousands of Indigenous years and 150 afterwards living on the flood plain was difficult but accepted. I heard my mothers’ stories of cleaning mud out of her Grafton flat in 1967. I have diaries and paintings of my family measuring flood heights back to 1950. My brother was born in Maclean in the middle of the 1974 one. Old homes were wooden + raised. There were NO agencies, just grassroots effort. There were no dense estates with limited evacuation routes. There was no fill. People avoided swampy ground.
There are infill-able hill alternatives ALL over the Valley. But they are diffuse. They are complex to plan for in a strategic way. And our staff are stretched. Greenfield are easier for developers, so we let them at it – but are crippling for our rates if promised infrastructure doesn’t appear.
We have to be more discerning with alternatives. We can’t take away more agricultural land. We are losing that rapidly. We have to be clever and make use of the cleared, residential land we already have. Many ordinary folk could benefit from a studio, granny flat or other subdivision tool to increase the density of our towns and villages.
The average Australian moves house every 9 years. There’s a severing from land so we misunderstand ecosystems around us. Estate agents fail to reveal mangroves are close. New landowners may also have misunderstood the implications. People will HATE to read that, but it’s true. A new influx of people also has different tolerances.
ADD 2022 – a perfect storm of rain, floodwater, surge and high tide.
ADD climate change impacts.
ADD challenges to predicting flows since landforms have changed.
ADD a sense of anger from those suffering multiple natural disaster hits and then covid.
ADD a generalised lack of collective support from agencies.
ADD a Council who became overwhelmed by the onslaught of big-scale development. That’s West Yamba.
Question 6 – A Fair Go means a few things like “all of us should be treated fairly and equitably.” It also means “having a crack at something.”
- Are villages treated equitably? Well, they all have fewer services. With fuel prices skyrocketing, health care shortages, etc – you’d have to say life is less fair in them. There are usually historical reasons why certain villages developed, and the industries and vibrancy of the past are often long gone.
- And on the flip side they do indeed have a real fair go! They are strong, deeply interconnected, not needing all the trappings of modernity and consumptive, material items because they have community instead. That’s something all societies and neighborhoods long for. LONG LIVE THE VILLAGE.
I have heard that folk feel ignored. Perception is important! I admit I have not been able to spend time in enough small places this campaign. I get these people. I am these people. I think they DO want genuine engagement and care. I wonder if we all need to reach out more. Listen more. Respect the wisdom, history and inter-generational ways of living on this land. Sometimes we ought to help and ALSO other times we ought to just get out of the way.
James Allan
Question 4 – The councils roll in promoting tourism in the region is crucial. Since the post covid boom and with cost-of-living pressures affecting most Australians we have seen a drop off in tourist numbers. The Valley, although in my opinion superior, has a whole coastline of competing areas in which tourists may choose to visit if our council doesn’t work to ensure it remains desirable. Council must work with residents, businesses and chambers of commerce to ensure we attract tourists and keep them coming back. A great place to start is with improving the upkeep and beautification of our main streets.
Question 5 – Simply put, the council must seek the best professional advice before approving developments, get the information sorted and make it public. If an area is deemed appropriate for development, then yes, start the DA process, if not then seek alternative housing areas. Current residents’ properties must not be put at risk in order to develop new land.
Question 6 – All towns and villages need more attention from council when it comes to basic maintenance and upkeep of roads, infrastructure and town centres. In relation to tourism, I will work to see that we extend visitation to all corners of our valley, each village should be given the opportunity to capitalise on tourism as they can all offer something unique for tourists to enjoy. There is no reason why holiday makers and tourists who are staying in Yamba shouldn’t take a day trip out to Ulmarra to soak up the history or venture upriver to experience the beautiful landscapes and wildlife.
Allison Whaites
Question 4 – It is extremely important for CVC to promote tourism which they do very well with over 30 different flyers showcasing from heritage trails to hinterlands wonders. Clarence Valley is such an amazing area, and we are extremely fortunate to have our beautiful beaches, rainforest, rivers and all in between. CVC in the past year have risen their website visits, social media hits and have produced their 8th edition of the CVC magazine.
Tourism promotion is only one aspect to entice tourists to visit our wonderful LGA, we need small businesses to also promote and be open during peak holiday times and we need more accommodation throughout the region like hotels, caravan parks and AIRBNB. To grow in tourism and bring much needed money to our region we must have better sporting facilities, retail and hospitality outlets opened and accommodation to cater for the tourist or they will simply keep visiting Bryon Bay and Coffs Harbour.
Question 5 – The concerns I see is by a lobby group in Yamba who reside on floodplain but don’t want anyone else to…. Council must abide by legislation which is dictated by State Government. The current set of Councillors have had extensive training by the experts in the field and I have no issue in building on land that ticks all the boxes. We have always been under-developed in the region and always had a housing shortage. By not developing we are the cause of the housing crisis, and well, if you’re against development, yet want to state you want to fix the housing crisis that, is very hypocritical. Real estate prices rise due to high demand low stock, by building more homes that will change, and prices will lower as high supply and lower demand as more homes to decide on.
Question 6 – Yes, they do get a fair go I believe. Not every town and village are the same and every village has a list of different needs and wants.
Cristie Yager
Question 4 – I think the Council’s role in the promotion of tourism within the Clarence Valley is very important. I certainly think our beautiful region could be promoted in a cost effective, creative and environmentally friendly way. We need to be promoting our region to people who reside outside of it, to encourage their visits. How can they get our lovely, printed materials prior to arrival? How far reaching is our current approach towards promotion and who is it targeting? Our region is perfect for family farm stays, country learning experiences and camping. Holidays aren’t affordable for many families right now. How can we use these two facts and bring people here to make some memories? I do think it is essential to remember that while we want to attract tourists to boost our economy, it and rates cannot be our only way of supporting small and local business, this is our home first and foremost and we’re in need of some innovative ways to get our economy pumping with security.
Question 5 – I think it’s simply insane to continue building on floodplains, I think we are smarter than this. While the state government mucks around on this issue after clearly stating that it is not a sensible avenue, council needs to be a step ahead of the game and take the initiative to preserve life and property. We have flood free land; it may not generate the highest rates in town or be prime location, but it is safe and insurable. People can live secure lives in homes they know will not be flood damaged. We know our region is disaster prone, and this will continue to be the case into the future. We will harden to these natural elements with time and experience. We need to be prepared for when they arrive and be supportive neighbours during the recovery process, as we always have been. There is a difference between preparing for an event and exacerbating an event. Common sense must take precedent in this matter.
Question 6 – No, I do not. There are many small villages and communities, and these people become their own tribes. They know their lands; their ways and often like-minded people gravitate to the villages and communities that suit them most. They become families. And then the council comes along. Rate payers regardless of where in our LGA, deserve a level of services that matches their contribution, and I don’t see this in our roads for the lesser of examples. The moment you head out of the main centres, and in some cases the smaller centres themselves are in a sorry state – you’re on a back track. I cannot shed light as to why there is a level of unfairness throughout our large region, but I don’t think it’s right. Our villages may not have many occupants but still they have the right to voice their concerns, wants and needs and be heard by those who are there for them.
Karen Toms
Question 4- Tourism is very important and is one of several major economic drivers to the Clarence Valley. Council has long recognised the importance and potential of tourism, even before amalgamation 20 years ago, the five general purpose councils and the two specific purpose county councils and their respective businesses supported a special rate variation (SRV), that to this day is still imbedded in our rate income more than two decades ago.
There are also links to council participation based in our Community Strategic Plan 2032 (CSP) based on what the community told us.
A key finding of a 2016 Tourism Industry Development and Marketing Strategy told us
There is a significant capacity variance amongst Clarence Valley tourism operators. This is primarily evidenced by the varying levels of digital utilisation, asset/experience knowledge of the Clarence Valley and also general business skills.
Council has adopted an approach where Council are effectively assisting and building industry and community capacity as part of the tourism enablement process.
Strengthening the capacity of our tourism sector benefits everyone. A robust tourism industry has a flow on effect to a vast array of business from accommodation, coffee shops, restaurants, retail shops, petrol stations to name a few.
Council’s Regional Economic Development Strategy also speaks to tourism as an industry that council plays a role in promoting.
The vision from that strategy is to sustainably grow Clarence Valley’s prosperous, diverse economy specialising in tourism, agriculture, aquaculture, forestry, manufacturing and services. their communities. There is ample evidence council is an important stakeholder in promoting tourism in the Clarence Valley.
A decline in tourism has real potential for dire consequences to jobs and the success of our business sector which impacts everyone.
Question 5 – For me it is irrelevant what I think as an individual.
NSW has a Planning System that includes strategic planning and development assessment. Planning is a profession, development assessment is governed by legislation.
Our professional staff assess development applications using the following planning instruments. Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 which has recently been updated. The new Act follows the passing of the EP&A Amendment Act 2017 to a modern planning system that is simpler and faster.
Then there is Environmental Assessment Regulations 2000, State Environmental Planning Policies (SEPPs) Local Environment Plans (LEP) and Development Control Plans. There are also Ministers Directions s9.1 of the LEP.
Is it complex, absolutely for the untrained, that’s why councillors rely on our staff reports.
What some might not realise, the NSW Government supports careful development on flood prone land. They make the laws. They have also given councils new planning powers for floodplains. Councils prepare Development Control Plans in consultation with the community. DCPs are guidelines not LAW.
Council is currently seeking feedback on proposed amendments to its DCP based on proposed interim Flood Planning Levels for the Clarence River floodplain,
Australians have been living on floodplains since colonialisation. Once the Clarence River was discovered and news of this “Big River’’ reached Sydney the government and other enterprising early settlers sailed north to investigate. Settlements soon sprung up along the river and they are still here to this day. Ulmarra is a 19th Century River Port classified by the National Trust and now a tourist attraction. Lawrence, Yamba, Copmanhurst to name a few all settled on floodplains in the 19th century. They were floodplains then and they are still floodplains to this day, although highly modified with flood mitigation infrastructure, such as levies and floodgates.
I have respect for democracy, and the laws of our country, including the rights our landowners have under those laws.
Question 6 – Tough question to answer. When I put my mind to this question my heart tells me it is understandable they might feel that way. I would have to say I don’t believe they are based on a few factors. I very rarely hear from people from our smaller villages. If I do it is operational matters that are passed onto staff to address.
I do believe the tyranny of distance across our large local government area does make it difficult for councillors to drop by, attend community meetings and catch up generally with residents like we do in the bigger towns where we live and work. The Clarence Valley is 10,441 square kilometres with three towns and 60 villages. This could also be a factor if some are feeling neglected.
It is almost time to review our Council’s Community Strategic Plan 2032 (CSP) where we want the community to tell us what’s important to them. We need to know this so that councillors make decisions based on community feedback. What they want their towns and villages to look like, what is important to them, so councillors can make informed decisions for their future Delivery Programs and Operational Plans (budgets) to deliver community aspirations.
Greg Clancy
Question 4 – Council plays an important role by providing tourist information at a number of hubs and by providing information on the website and as hard copy brochures. The destination management plan was approved at last Tuesday’s council meeting and outlines how council will be promoting the Clarence Valley. Council needs to work in collaboration with the tourism providers to ensure that tourists can access the information and services that they need. There is very little promotion needed for the coastal towns and villages as they are often at capacity, but Council has been working on promoting the hinterland areas to try and relieve the pressure on the coast. Wildlife tourism, in particular bird watching, is an untapped market. In all of this we need to make sure that the tourists don’t put too much pressure on the delicate natural environment of the area.
Question 5 – I have a long-standing view that to build on the floodplain is not sensible. ‘Floodplains’ are just that, plains that flood. I have voted against a number of developments at West Yamba on environmental grounds but more particularly on human safety grounds. As a councillor I have not been prepared to risk the lives of people who would be trapped in the event of a flood. Placing thousands of cubic metres of fill on the floodplain is fraught with risks. The impact of thousands of truck movements has impacted local Yamba residents for years and the fill has caused a change in drainage. Yamba residents claim that they have been flooded as a result of this fill. There is sufficient land at Junction Hill which is flood free and lacks any significant vegetation, so it is sensible to develop that land and not floodplains. Council should do an in-depth study of the carrying capacity of the LGA as the number of homeless people, the issues with the water supply and the continual ‘death by a thousand cuts’ clearing of natural habitat suggest that we may have already reached overshoot.
Question 6 – As a Councillor I have attempted to visit the local villages as much as possible and I live in one. The villages probably don’t get as much attention as they would like but there have been some good initiatives by Council such as Bailey Park, Ulmarra, and the playground at Woombah and the Lawrence Community Economic Development Plan is being prepared by Council in consultation with the Lawrence community. Villages with community organisations are easier for Council to deal with as it gives a point of contact. I have attended functions/meetings at Dundurrabin, Hernani, Ramornie, Glenreagh, Nymboida, Coutts Crossing, Malabugilmah, Waterview Heights, Iluka, Woombah, Lawrence, Gulmarrad and other small villages. The tyranny of distance is always an issue in such a large local government area.
Amanda Brien
Question 4 – I believe councils play an important role in supporting and promoting sustainable tourism. Having infrastructure and services that support tourism is important, as is managing any effects of tourism.
I would work to encourage stronger partnerships between council, business and community to help support our local economy and the availability of education, training and job opportunities for us and our children.
Question 5 – I believe any conversation about development should start with better education and transparency about development. Our community is asking for more information so they can understand what any changes would mean for them – in particular, what it would mean in terms of continuing to be able to participate in community into the future. I would encourage better sharing and access to information for our community.
I believe creating a sustainable balance is important. I would consider each development in its own context as I understand they all represent their own challenges and opportunities. I would actively listen to all community concerns, seek qualified advice and information, and look to all options to come to an informed view that addresses the problem that is trying to be solved.
Question 6 – My answer to this question is from the perspective of my core values: connecting, supporting and protecting community.
I believe at the core of all community concerns is our need to participate and belong to community. People want to participate in community in different ways through access to infrastructure and services. People want to see their money being spent on services and facilities they use.
I would be useful in helping support community across the Clarence Valley by spending time in villages getting to know people and listening to understand all the different needs. I would take all views back to council, so decisions are made on balance.
I would promote education and transparency by being clear about the reasons behind council decisions and priorities, about how proposed changes might affect or not affect participation, and by facilitating ways to share information our community asks for (for example, schedules of works).
Most important to me, I would prioritise community wellbeing: by exploring additional uses for existing infrastructure to maximise opportunities to participate without extra cost; by encouraging support for ongoing community-led initiatives for mental health and wellbeing; by approaching planning decisions to facilitate access to services; and by advocating to government for support for services we are lacking.
Peter Johnstone
Question 4 – Very important. Tourism often involves smaller operators that occupy a specialist niche in the market. These operators need other tourism services and provisions to operate around them to make a feasible holistic holiday experience for tourists. Council can help facilitate these partnerships through helping publicise tourist experiences and services and facilitate cooperation between providers. Council also provides brand marketing such as the myclarencevalley.com website to attract visitors to the area.
Question 5 – All aspects of development are strictly governed by planning law. When council receives a development application, staff are required to access the application against the regulations and give advice to councillors on whether a DA should or should not be approved. If councillors are the consent authority, they consider the staff recommendation and can decide to agree or not. However, it is important to understand that this cannot be on what councillors feel or want – DAs have to be evaluated on section 4.15 of the Environmental Planning Act. Should a developer feel their DA has been unreasonably refused then they can appeal to the Land and Environment Court to overturn the decision. So, my answer would be that every application has to be decided on its merits.
Question 6 – Once decisions on how councils spent money were able to be influenced by councillors. That often meant that money was spent according to the whim of elected members rather than on a more objective evaluation of need. It is said that the road to the Mayor’s house used to always be the best maintained! Now decisions on the budgets are made by councillors, but the decisions on how the budget is spent is made by staff – and councillors should not get involved. From what I have seen and heard; council staff do an excellent job of sharing out the money they have fairly. So yes.
Phil Provest
Question 4 – Council should be promoting tourism in all LGAs.
As we recall Council decided to curtail tourism information.
The building that formally housed the TIC stands testament (still vacant) to a poor decision.
CVC is the gateway to the Northern Rivers
Question 5 – I will stand firm on the filling of wetlands and flood prone lands the practice cannot be permitted to continue. Areas with a high-water table, lands that have a low weight bearing capacity must be viewed in the same manner.
In recent times flooding of coastal areas, Yamba, Ballina, to name just two.
I believe this has been caused by the filling of wetlands depriving natural run off and retention basins.
Question 6 – I do think smaller communities do get the short end of the stick when it comes to the general care the village warrants.
Roadside drainage in many areas suffers from total neglect.