I AM writing in support of the proposed changes to the Broulee Beach Estate, which have been part of Broulee plans for more than 30 years.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
I grew up in Bodalla, which then had a population of about 400. People looked after each other, knew each other, and the community supported local businesses, whether baker or developer.
A large sub-division went ahead in the 1990s but not once did I hear a local complain. It provided much-needed commerce and more kids for the small school, which moved to accommodate the increase.
The community I grew up in has changed, to the detriment of the shire.
The NIMBYs have taken over. We now have a community which heckles those who grew up here for their views, right or wrong.
We have people who say, “I bought here three years ago and this development will change the community that I bought into”.
This Broulee development has been a 30-year process.
You are living in part of it. You have already changed this community and, yes, the people who buy into the next stage will also change the community that you found so attractive to settle in and change yourself.
Eurobodalla’s death rate is higher than its birth rate in a time of record-breaking births in NSW. Last year we had 350 burials or cremations compared to 280 births.
The Eurobodalla is a prime location for baby boomers to retire, but we have to look at the logistics.
We need more infrastructure, including roads and stormwater. It means smaller blocks and higher buildings.
We need a young workforce to support the ageing demographic, and to attract them we need services, shops and accommodation, well-paying jobs, good schools, job prospects for youth and a vibrant community with things to do.
We are a long way behind.
Let’s look at what we can do to make this a place one where the next generation will want to stay and raise their kids.
This can’t be done by arguing about past legislation or decisions.
We need to see the issues that will face us 10 or 20 years down the track or there will be no-one here to wipe your bum when you can’t.
Please think of yourself, or at least your children’s final memories of you, when you give your point of view in this developing and ever-changing shire.
Stephen Matthews
Long Beach