By NIRAG secretary Ross Dearden
The Northern Illawarra Residents Action Group (NIRAG) was formed in August 1984 as a reaction to proposals to construct 40m-high Coal Bins at Sandon Point, Bulli. We support preservation of open space and the retention and enhancement of our environment and heritage. Since 2020 in the role of Neighbourhood Forum 3 (Woonona, Bulli, Thirroul and Austinmer), residents of this area have been welcome to attend our meetings.
News this month includes:
1. The draft Community Strategic Plan 2035 and draft Delivery Program 2025-2029 and Operational Plan 2025-2026 are proposed to be on public exhibition for the period Wednesday, 9 April to Wednesday, 7 May 2025.
2. Green corridor – Lot 303 (7ha), at Amy St, Thirroul: land is needed to link to Sandon Point.
A meeting was held with Maryanne Stuart MP to explore what assistance is available and what needs to be done to support strong community wishes to have this land in public ownership. We are aiming to meet with Penny Sharpe, Minister for the Environment. To date, Council has not seen merit in obtaining this huge area, 70,000m² of land (7 ha). Green corridors are generally supported but this land is not yet identified on any strategic plans for Council to acquire. NIRAG believes that its acquisition should be included in the Strategic Plan and brought into public ownership as recommended by the Commission of Inquiry and the Charles Hill Report many years ago. Volunteers would be willing and able to reduce ongoing maintenance and management costs, and funding assistance sought from State Government and other sources.
3. Clean Up Australia Day: NIRAG again participated on Monday, 3 March to clean up at McCauley Beach/Sandon Point. It was pleasing that there was not a lot of litter on the beach and cycleway this year.
4. BushCare: For 40 years NIRAG has been working to improve our local environment. From Hewitts Ck/McCauleys Beach area, our work area has now expanded to include an area at Flanagans Creek, Thirroul. Each Monday morning the Bushcare group, led by Ian McKinlay, meets at the Hewitts Creek cycleway bridge or at Flanagan’s Ck site to control noxious weeds and revegetate with endemic species. New volunteers welcome.
Next NIRAG meeting: 14 May, 7pm, Bulli Community Centre, nirag@bigpond.com