• Berwick Gazette
• Pakenham Gazette

21st July 2010 02:01:54 AM

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FOR generations, many readers of this paper, Islanders and tourists have enjoyed the beauty and recreational delights of the jetty area at Cowes main beach.

They may not be aware that this iconic site is under threat from a State Government proposal to build a car ferry terminal.

The proposed car ferry terminal location will destroy the heart of the community, create a visual and ugly industrial obstruction instead of a glorious view and greatly magnify the traffic and parking congestion that already exists for much of the year.

The essential exclusion zone around the terminal would also cause a massive disruption to water and beach activities in Cowes.

What guarantee do we have that if the terminal is constructed, with its devastating and permanent consequences, that it will not become a “white elephant” like Port Welshpool?

On more than one occasion, hundreds of Island locals and others have rallied and petitioned against the car ferry proposal.

Therefore, I would hope that we can rely on the Bass Coast and the Mornington Peninsula councillors to vote NO and to support the local community and environment and not be swayed by the assumed tourism and economic benefits.

We have to live with the consequences of their decisions!

Any visitors who have enjoyed this unique area are asked to contact the relevant councils and the State Government, Parks Victoria and Tourism Victoria] with their opposition to the proposal. Bass Coast Council will vote on 28 July.

No government would allocate $3 million to keep our Bush Nursing Hospital open or to provide an accident and emergency department, yet they are prepared to spend up to $30 million to build this monstrosity.

Where are the priorities?

Is this to be like previous “consultations” with the locals which, despite opposition, resulted in the disastrous Nobbies building or the desalination plant?

Is it true that the State Government intends to build this car ferry terminal no matter what? Over to you Mr Brumby!

Jim Alexander,

Cowes.

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