Boambee Bay erosion causing concern

GREG Costello is one of a number of locals disturbed by conditions at Boambee Bay reserve.

While many are disappointed that the café no longer operates, Mr Costello says that foreshore damage and erosion is also becoming concerning

“We are regular swimmers and visitors to the Boambee Bay Reserve and have been going there for over 40 years as a long-time resident of Sawtell,” he said.

“My main concern… is the disappearing riverbank, which is gradually falling into the creek and making the lawn area above smaller and smaller with each visit.”

Mr Costello pointed out that there are two signs currently saying “Stay off Bank”, but said more signs are needed because he has seen families with children tunnelling into the banks while playing, eroding the area further.

“We know a lot of the damage is being caused by high tides and general erosion but if we don’t move quickly we are going to lose this piece of heaven for all that visit the area every year.

“With the grassed area on the northern part of the riverbank now only 3.5m from the concrete road to the riverbank, there will soon be nowhere to sit… at that end of the reserve.”

He said the reserve also appears shabby and dirty, with the shelters full of leaves and dirt, and that “charging $8 for park usage, given its current state, is outrageous.”

Mr Costello has emailed state and local politicians but said nothing has improved.

A spokesperson for Reflections Holidays said it is a Category 1 Crown Land manager, and the Boambee Creek Reserve is one of 47 community reserves it cares for on behalf of the community.

He said Reflections is aware of the erosion impacting a section of the riverbank, and has sought funding assistance via a Crown Lands Improvement Fund (CRIF) application to support a longer term strategy.

As it awaits a response, it is seeking quotes for sand scraping, which will reposition sand and stabilise the bank.

The cafe at Boambee Creek Reserve is currently closed and the spokesperson said the Reflections team is reviewing applications from interested parties with the aim of finding a viable operator, considering the Reserve is predominantly visited by the public in warmer months.

In the interim, food van operators have been at the Reserve, including the Marine Rescue Food Truck, which was organised as part of our Rescue Month fundraising activities – an organisation-wide charity support initiative held each January.

The spokesperson said Reflections staff clean the amenities and BBQ areas daily in peak holiday periods and twice a week in non-peak holiday periods, while maintenance such as mowing is done as identified by staff.

He said a Reflections staff member is on-site daily and numerous staff perform cleaning, mowing and maintenance duties multiple times throughout the week, ensuring the property is maintained for the community’s enjoyment.

By Andrew VIVIAN