Gas is a fossil fuel and at only one degree of global warming our communities were devastated by extreme bushfires driven by fossil fuelled climate change. Our urgent need is to phase out fossil fuels and draw down carbon from the atmosphere.

There are very few jobs in gas development, especially compared to a community led renewables and low carbon recovery. We already have the technology to provide all our electricity from wind, solar, hydro and batteries. Green hydrogen is an emerging technology.

Australia is a major gas producer, but Australians are paying high export level prices for gas and there is the absurd proposition that exported Australian gas should be reimported. The gas industry cartels must be regulated to control prices and ensure availability, as is done in Western Australia.

The Narooma Tourist Information Centre and Lighthouse Museum share the same building in the heart of the town. The museum extension was the result of campaigning and funding from the local community, the NSW Tourist Commission, Eurobodalla Shire Council, Apex, and lighthouse enthusiasts. The location was chosen as the most appropriate place for the original Montague Island light after it was replaced by an automatic light in1986. It was originally cared for by council with free admission to the Lighthouse area, and leased to Montague Arts and Craft Society (MACS) in 20I6 on the understanding this care be continued and general tourist information provided.

News that the Narooma's tourist Information is to be digitised and this part of the building to be rented out to an unknown business is alarming to residents and visitors who appreciate the friendly information given by volunteers of MACS and don't wish it replaced by impersonal responses from electronic devices or limited information given out by businesses chosen by council.

The tourist advice and information MACS gives is complemented by the sale of locally made art and craft, souvenirs, and local products that reflect the history, culture and community of our coast. The two sides of the building complement each other. Local artists' paintings prove popular, as do shell mosaics, postcards, Australian toy birds and animals. Practical services also involve translating and interpreting electronic information, publicising community events, and providing bus information and tickets.

However the burden of providing such comprehensive tourist and community assistance in troubled times with little or no staffing or financial help from council is beginning to weigh heavily on MACS.

According to Chris McCauley, president of MACS, her organisation's submission to council is a plan for a continuation at least of the art and craft gallery along with management of the Lighthouse Museum at what she calls "a peppercorn rent"

Will council be prepared to show real concern for community values and our close connection with the ocean, or will the lease of this building just go to the highest bidder?