In a non-agenda public forum before the meeting three people voiced their concerns about why council should rescind its decision. 

Stop Arms Fairs in Eurobodalla (SAFE) was formed for residents to voice their concerns about HuntFest and its expansion to include a display of guns. 

Kathy Thackray argued the Eurobodalla Shire’s branding of ‘nature coast’ was being destroyed and made the shire a destination for hunting. 

She said tourism was the main economic activity in the region. 

“The region’s average growth over the past four years has been 21.5 per cent, compared with the national growth average of just 2.7 per cent,” Mrs Thackray said. 

“Tourism in this area is critical for social cohesion.

“Promoting guns and gun fairs could well destroy our branding.”

Also speaking on the tourism branding was Chris Magill, who was concerned about the push for a shooting range at Huntfest. 

“I can’t see that promoting the Nature Coast as a tourism drawcard and the promotion of HuntFest are compatible,” Mr Magill said. 

Peter Cormick also voiced his concerns, this time on council’s community engagement policy and the standards within it. 

Mr Cormick suggested council review the policy with a view to “walking the talk instead of filling it with motherhood statements”.

“The document is terrific but I would like to see some action toward it,” Mr Cormick said. 

“The original decision in June 2012 was flawed in its presentation.

“I want to see the decision rescinded and for council to go back and do it again properly with public consultation.”

The three speakers were supported by several people in the gallery.