Dredging the Woronora has been a long -term safety issue, we have been promised the dredging management plan since 2021 and are still trying to find out WHEN it will be considered by Council. Can the candidates all let us know what is their understanding of the key reasons that safe navigability of the Woronora is so important to residents.
The dredging of the Woronora River has been a critical safety concern for residents for several years. The accumulation of silt and debris over time has made the river difficult to navigate, posing risks to those who rely on it for access to their homes. Many residents living along the Woronora River depend on safe and clear waterways to access their properties. For them, the river is not just a recreational space but a vital transportation route, especially in emergencies. The dredging management plan was promised back in 2021, yet they are still waiting for its release and implementation. The delay has caused frustration and uncertainty within the community, as residents have been eagerly anticipating action.
It is essential for the Council to prioritise this issue and ensure that the dredging plan is not only released for community consultation as scheduled in September or October but also adequately funded and executed. The safety and accessibility of the river must be at the forefront of Council’s decisions.
Ensuring safe navigability also has broader implications. A well-maintained river supports local ecosystems, enhances property values, and promotes tourism and recreational activities, all of which benefit the wider community.
As a candidate for re-election, I am committed to advocating for the timely completion and funding of the dredging plan. The safety and well-being of residents, particularly those dependent on the river, will remain a top priority in my continued work on the Council.
Stormwater management is important in the Woronora Valley. The 2000 Woronora Stormwater Management Plan was out of date in 2012 and has not been updated. Over the next 4 years, Council has allocated $43 million to sports fields, $21 million to Playgrounds and $13 million to Stormwater. That is 25% of Capex to open space and Stormwater underfunded by $3 million each year. How will you ensure that the level of funding meets Councils own Asset Management Plan of $5.2 million per year. That is $21 million instead of $13 million?
It’s essential to recognise that every aspect of our community infrastructure—whether it’s sports fields, playgrounds, or stormwater management—requires appropriate funding based on its specific needs. We should not view this as a competition between different areas but rather ensure that each receives the necessary resources to function effectively and safely within the scope of the budget.
I am committed to ensuring that stormwater infrastructure receives the funding it requires, not by diverting funds from other important areas, but by recognising and addressing the specific needs of each sector. Adequate stormwater management is crucial for protecting our homes, our environment, and our community’s well-being.
Where do you stand on the Sutherland Shire Overland Flood study? What will you do to remedy the study?
The Sutherland Shire Overland Flood Study is not just a statutory requirement; it’s essential for identifying areas that are vulnerable and need targeted stormwater upgrades. I fully support the study and will work to ensure that it is completed and used effectively to guide our planning and infrastructure investment.
My focus is on ensuring that all infrastructure, including stormwater, is funded according to its needs. This means advocating for the full $5.2 million per year for stormwater as outlined in the Asset Management Plan and ensuring that the findings of the Overland Flow Flood Study directly influence our budget and project priorities.
Jannali Shopping Centre redevelopment
The Jannali shopping centre precinct should be revitalised, but keeping to the character of the area.
What is their position on the Peabody mine in relation to the Woronora Dam
The regulation and approval of mining activities, including contracts like those involving the Peabody mine, typically fall under the jurisdiction of the State Government rather than the Local Government. In New South Wales (NSW), where the Woronora Dam is located, the NSW State Government, through agencies such as the Department of Planning and Environment and the NSW Resources Regulator, is responsible for issuing mining leases, overseeing mining operations, and ensuring that environmental and safety standards are met. Local Government, while having a role in land use planning and environmental protection at a local level, does not have direct control over mining contracts. That being said the Council can and should advocate on behalf of our community and provide input during the consultation processes related to mining projects that may impact our area.
The Woronora Dam is a critical water source for our community, and its protection is of utmost importance. Any activities, including mining, that could potentially compromise the integrity of the dam or the quality of our water supply must be carefully scrutinised.
The proximity of the Peabody mine to the Woronora Dam raises significant environmental concerns, particularly regarding the potential for subsidence, water contamination, and damage to the surrounding ecosystem. These risks must be fully assessed and addressed. While economic activities like mining are important, they should not come at the expense of our essential natural resources. Sustainable development must be prioritised, ensuring that our water supply and environment are preserved for future generations.
I support calls for independent reviews and assessments of the impact of the Peabody mine on the Woronora Dam. These reviews should be conducted by qualified experts and should guide any future decisions regarding the mine’s operations.
Will you allow buildings and tree removal on foreshores ?
There are two current decisions I have been in favour of THAT: 1. The report ‘Draft Planning Proposal – Foreshores’ be received and noted. 2. The draft Foreshores Planning Proposal be referred to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure for Gateway Determination. 3. The Chief Executive Officer be given delegated authority to make any amendments that are required by the Gateway Determination before the draft Planning Proposal is exhibited. RESOLVED: (Councillor Pesce/Councillor Cowell) THAT: 1. Item COR040-24 be deferred to the November 2024 Ordinary Council Meeting. 2. Council Officers provide a report of the impact if a Council Resolution to make draft Sutherland Shire Development Control Plan 2015 Amendment 9: a. is passed on the loss of canopy of trees on private property, and b. is not passed on private property, including infrastructure like swimming pools footings, fencing, driveways, and stormwater. There are no homes on the “foreshore”, it was a poorly titled report.
The restoration of Woronora Valley and river is essential for waterway health and prevention of silting and run off from excessive clearing .
Part of a successful restoration would be to plant the correct mangroves and wetlands along the sides of the river. Do you have a restoration plan that involves mangroves for the health of woronora River ? Do you have a long term plan as part of crisis prevent and river health ?
The health of the Woronora River is of paramount importance to our community, not just for its ecological value but also for the role it plays in preventing issues like silting and runoff, which can result from excessive land clearing. I am committed to working collaboratively with environmental agencies, local organisations, and the community to implement this plan.
How would you improve collection & recycling of plastic waste?
One of the key areas where we can make a significant impact is through improved community education. I would work to expand programs that inform residents about the importance of reducing plastic use, correctly sorting recyclables, and understanding what can and cannot be recycled.
What is important and makes a community in your view?
As a long-time resident of E Ward, I understand the values that make our community strong—kindness, resilience, and a commitment to helping one another. I have always believed that our greatest strength lies in our ability to come together and support each other. This belief has driven every decision I’ve made as your Councillor
The Caravan Park is in the zone Re2 Recreation. Do you agree that going forward, the land should be used for something within the definition of an Re2 zone?
First and foremost, I want to make it clear that I am strongly against displacing the permanent residents of the caravan park. These individuals and families have made this place their home, and their needs must be a top priority in any discussions about the future use of the land. I would advocate for exploring land use options that both align with the RE2 zoning and allow the caravan park’s permanent residents to remain. This could involve maintaining the caravan park as part of the broader recreational landscape or integrating it with other compatible uses, such as eco-friendly tourism or community facilities that do not displace existing residents.
Will you stand with the residents in the event that another developer attempts to redevelop the Caravan Park into a medium density, low-cost housing complex?
I want to reaffirm my commitment to standing with the residents of the caravan park. I have spoken strongly on the floor of Council in support of their views, and I remain steadfast in my opposition to any redevelopment that would displace the current residents or undermine their rights.
The land is zoned RE2 Recreation, which is intended for recreational use, not for medium-density residential development.
How important to you is the ongoing council support and funding of local organisations that deliver vital community services such as support groups, information and referral services, social inclusion groups, support for women and domestic and family violence support services that deliver on the council community strategic plan and rely on council funding to operate. And if supportive, how will you ensure council acts on this?
As someone who has served on the Grants Committee, I fully understand the critical role that ongoing Council support and funding play in enabling local organisations to deliver vital community services. These services—ranging from support groups and information and referral services to social inclusion initiatives and support for women facing domestic and family violence—are the lifeblood of our community. They directly contribute to the well-being and resilience of our residents. My long-term commitment is to safeguard and expand support for these essential services. I will advocate for long-term financial planning that secures ongoing support for these services. This includes ensuring that funding is not just a one-time allocation but is embedded in Council’s long-term financial strategy to provide stability for these organisations.
Road maintenance program
When it comes to the road maintenance program in E Ward, I believe it’s crucial that we take a closer look at the current plan and make necessary adjustments to ensure that the most pressing issues are addressed first. This involves a thorough review of the existing conditions, identifying the areas that require immediate attention, and then prioritising those projects to ensure efficient and effective use of resources. My goal is to ensure that our roads are safe, accessible, and maintained to a standard that meets the needs of all residents in the community.
Housing density and required parking
High-density housing is a complex issue, and while it can provide much-needed housing options, it must be approached with caution and careful planning. I believe that any development should respect the character and needs of our local community. It is crucial to balance growth with maintaining the quality of life for current residents. This includes ensuring that infrastructure, green spaces, and community services can support an increased population. If re-elected, I will continue to advocate for responsible development that prioritises sustainability, community consultation, and the preservation of our unique Shire identity. High-density housing should be implemented thoughtfully, with a focus on creating liveable, vibrant communities rather than simply increasing numbers.
How do you intend to communicate with your electorate?
I will continue to accessible and use social media, email, my website, Phone Lines, Coffee Catch ups with Laura. Through Residents Association.
