Back-flip on Sandy Point Beach controversy

The vehicle access road between the lawn and barbecue area and the Sandy Point Beach will be re-instated, following the overturning of a previous decision. Image: Hay Lions

By Tertia Butcher

It is back to the drawing board for the controversial Sandy Point redevelopment project.

Council has back-flipped on its final Murrumbidgee River Masterplan adopted two years ago which included the redevelopment of Sandy Point Reserve, particularly around the beach and boat ramp.

A Notice of Motion was received by Council for the recent October meeting from Cr Martyn Quinn, calling for the return of the beach as it was before last year’s flood event.

“The flood event of 2022 saw the sand on the beach at Sandy Point Reserve relocate to cover the access road and grassed area immediately adjacent to the beach,” Cr Quinn said in his written motion.

“At the time there was a petition organised by ratepayers and frequent users of Sandy Point Reserve which was signed by approximately 130 frustrated citizens.,” Cr Quinn said.

“On top of this, there were seven written submissions to either Council or the General Manager to have these changes reversed.

“It was determined by Council at the February 2023 Ordinary Meeting when five councillors voted to disregard these pleas.

“More recently, there has been more concerns raised by users that the current state of Sandy Point is not one in favour of general usability, safety or inclusivity.”

Cr Jenny Dwyer disagrees.

“I am a frequent user of Sandy Point, it is my favourite place in town,” she said.

“There is plenty of scope in the Masterplan for more car spaces.

“We can block off the swim area.

“I am happy to walk the extra 20 metres (to the water’s edge).”

“Why touch something that doesn’t need touching?” boating enthusiast, Geoff Murphy asked.

“There is no parking. It is a floodplain and if Council puts tables and chairs out, in the first flood they’ll be gone.”

Another frequent user of the area who attended last week’s Council meeting, Phil Wilson, agrees.

“Parking is an issue. It (the change) has hindered the area for users.”

Ian Lugsdin who has lived on the river all his life, told Council there were not many places where one could drive to the water’s edge and talk to people without having to get out of the car.

“Get it back to the way it was,” he added.

“Is it more tourism related that for local users?” Cr Paul Porter asked of the changes.

General Manager, David Webb said the development of the River Masterplan included three rounds of community engagement.

He said the final masterplan adopted by Council mid-2021 included the closing of the access track which fronted the beach area, creating a second boat ramp and dedicated parking areas.

“Overall, it is believed the redevelopment would provide for a more inclusive and functional reserve area for all users,” he said.

“Council should note the refurbishment of the area is not complete.

“Observation from staff and verbal feedback from various sections of the community, including Hay Lions Fishing Competition, was how the closed-off area was much safer and more usable for all people.

“Observing the boating that occurred on Australia Day, it appeared to work well and would only be enhanced when the area is fully redeveloped.

“It is not clear if the ‘noise’ around the changes is an actual true representation of the community at large or that of just a few skier users.”

With the exception of Cr Jenny Dwyer, all councillors voted in favour of Cr Quinn’s motion to apply to NSW Water for permission to return the beach sand washed from the beach during the 2022 flood event.

If permission is granted, this is estimated to cost $8800.

Additionally, a review of the Masterplan would need to be undertaken by a consultant at a further cost of $15,000.