The Beagle Editor, The Batemans Bay Boaters Association conducted a survey which we submitted to the BB Bridge Project prior to their December deadline . From this it was obvious they had not talked to a large section of the boating public who visit the Bay and surrounds during the holiday period.
We therefore conducted an in-depth interview process of the boat owners over this years holiday period. The results were eye opening. The majority had heard about the new bridge but did not understand the impact on the waterways and roads during and after construction. Most expressed outrage when told the detail and said "why did we not know about this?" That begs the questions: What has RMS done to consult the non resident rate payers or the renting holiday visitors or don't they matter? Other than the blue tomes still in the library what information was available to this group of people over the holiday period? The Association communicated with the Mayor Liz Innes and RMS (and others) but as usual our emails disappeared into the black hole - no acknowledgement, zip, nothing, not even an auto-reply. So for those that may be interested our findings in the main where: - Boaters unaware of impact of construction on their boat ramps paid for in the main by their boat licence fees. - Disappointed by limited access to waterfront during construction. - Universal rejection of the bridge design. Don't like the added piers in the river. - Worried by traffic congestion. - Request for temporary boat ramp on north shore next to caravan park when ramps west of bridge restricted or closed. - Do not wish to trail boats through CBD after construction. - Upgrade the concrete T-wharf to floating pontoons and extend eastwards immediately. Well what is the next step? Will the visitors and holidaymakers have to wait for next year to be informed? Did the project team not know that visitors and holidaymakers are here over Christmas and they may have a view or should be consulted/informed? Many formed an opinion while they waited in the traffic gridlock we have come to expect during holidays.... April fools day is the next occasion (Easter) Batemans Bay Boaters Association
