A suggested fundraising levy for surf clubs has drawn online friends and enemies, but most councillors have kept their powder dry.
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On Friday, the Bay Post/Moruya Examiner published the calls of Batemans Bay Surf Life Saving Club president Tracy Innes and businessman Stephen Matthews for an annual levy on rates to fund capital works, infrastructure and equipment for clubs throughout the shire.
The pair said a small levy, of between 50 cents and $2, would make a big difference to struggling clubs and the model was used successfully on the NSW North Coast.
A subsequent online poll on this website attracted 90 votes, with roughly two-thirds in favour of a levy.
Asked if they were in favour of a 50 cent levy, 59 people, or 65.56 per cent said yes, while 31 people or 34.44 per cent said no.
On Monday morning, September 9, the Bay Post/Moruya Examiner asked all shire councillors for their views, but by 11am on Tuesday, only three had responded.
Neil Burnside was not yet persuaded.
“I'm in favour of maintaining council support for surf lifesaving clubs, through our infrastructure commitment and the provision of life saving services during summer,” Cr Burnside said.
“I am yet to be convinced that this would be best done through a levy.”
Danielle Brice was seeking a formal briefing before the council meeting of Tuesday, September 9, before commenting.
Liz Innes welcomed the discussion, but wanted more information.
“It is entirely appropriate that members of our community doing such worthwhile services as the lifesavers, or any other organisation, bring issues forward to us and start a conversation,” Cr Innes said.
“Whether or not I support it at this stage, I would like more information.
“Anything that puts a further burden on our ratepayers must be seriously considered.
“However the broader issue of how council can support our surf clubs is a conversation I am very keen to have.”
Cr Innes said the Batemans Bay club’s efforts to establish a fund-raising venue at its Malua Bay premises would help it become self-sufficient.
“If the surf club does have a function room and can generate revenue, it (a levy) may only be a short-term thing to set these clubs up so they are self funding,” she said.
“While I am not saying yes or no to the levy, let’s look at better ways of doing things.”
Cr Innes said funds raised from boating licenses and registrations, a portion of which goes to Marine Rescue, could also be considered for surf lifesaving.
RELATED CONTENT: Lifesaving levy floated: Poll http://www.batemansbaypost.com.au/story/2537440/lifesaving-levy-floated-poll/?cs=229
