Jet Ski Proposal Sparks Heated Clash on Lake Illawarra
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A proposal for guided jet ski tours on Lake Illawarra in Wollongong has ignited a fierce dispute between a jet ski hire operator adn local residents, raising concerns about safety, noise pollution, and environmental damage. The conflict comes after the same operator was previously denied a license to operate in Sydney’s Port Botany.
the operator, Malcolm and Natasha Barry of Play Hard Jet Ski Hire, found themselves confronting approximately 30 protestors who voiced strong opposition to the plan. The couple had recently received approval from a local planning panel to operate at the lake, a decision that has deeply divided the community.
Residents Voice Concerns Over Lake’s Tranquility
The core of the opposition centers on the potential disruption to the peaceful character of Lake Illawarra.Protestors argue that the introduction of jet skis will irrevocably damage the area’s natural amenity. “One person on a jet ski diminishes the amenity for the other 99 – why are we catering to the one per cent?” one resident passionately stated during the confrontation.
Concerns extend beyond mere inconvenience. Residents fear the impact on local wildlife, especially bird species that inhabit the lake. Despite assurances from Malcolm Barry that the jet skis would not harm bird life, protestors remain skeptical. He admitted the “waterway was quiet” but maintained his operation would be responsible.
Safety Concerns Raised by Water Users
The illawarra Dragon Boat Club, a fixture on the lake for decades, has also expressed serious safety concerns. Members worry that the presence of jet skis, capable of reaching speeds of 55 km/h on the open water, will create dangerous conditions for other water users. “It’s us, it’s stand up paddle boarders – jet skis would just wipe us out,” a protestor explained, highlighting the potential for collisions.
Transport for NSW previously denied Play Hard Jet Ski Hire a license to operate in the busier waters of Port Botany due to a history of jet ski-related accidents. Barry defended the move to Lake illawarra, stating, “That’s why it was recommended to come here.”
Operator Defends Proposal, Cites GPS Technology
Malcolm Barry attempted to demonstrate the noise levels of the jet skis by operating one at a speed of 8 km/h near the shore. He also asserted that a phone-operated GPS system would be implemented to limit speeds and control the direction of the jet skis,ensuring compliance with approval conditions.
“Yes, it does provide excitement and I don’t think that’s a bad thing,” Barry said, emphasizing the potential recreational benefits of the tours. He also challenged the protestors, asking, “How about you take my kids and support them for the rest of my lives,” in response to their questioning.
Questions Raised About Transparency and Consultation
Protestors have questioned the thoroughness of the reports used to justify the proposal, alleging that the approval process was rushed and lacked adequate public consultation. They claim the decision represents “selling out the lake to make some dollars from tourists” and fear it will “set a precedent and…the top of a slippery slope.”
Adding another layer of complexity, former state Liberal leader Kerry Chikarovski disclosed a connection to the project, stating she backed the business plan as a “friend” when it came before the planning panel. Chikarovski clarified that all decisions were made before she joined the board of the Illawarra Yacht Club and offered to correct the record if her membership should have been disclosed.
Final Decision Pending with Transport for NSW
Ultimately, the fate of the jet ski tours rests with transport for NSW, which will determine whether to grant Play Hard Jet Ski Hire a license to operate on Lake Illawarra.Maritime is currently assessing the proposal, and a final decision is anticipated in the coming weeks. The ongoing debate underscores the challenges of balancing recreational development with the preservation of natural environments and community concerns.
