Beagle Weekender Vol 188 Dec 31st 2020

Vol 16 September 15th 2017

28 December 7th, 2017 Vol 48 April 27th 2018 Vol 188 December 31st 2020 Your FREE online Eurobodalla weekend magazine.

Photo: South Coast Pix. Your Beagle Weekly Index Arts ……………………. 24 to 26 Cinema ……………….. 22,23 Community ………………4 to 10 Reading ……………………..11 to 19 Food………………………… 0 Sport and Fishing ………. 27 Editorial …………………..2,3 What’s On …………….... 20,21

FIND ALL YOUR DAILY NEWS @ www.beagleweekly.com.au

beagle weekly : Vol 188 December 31st 2020

1

editorial Welcome to this week’s editorial, New Years Eve 2020. Across the media pla6orms today are story a7er story of the year that was.

For so many in our community it has been, to quote the Queen, an “Annus horribilis”.

Vol 16 September 15th 2017 28 April December 7th, 2017 Vol 48 27th 2018

Each and all of us have our own stories, our own memories of what was. Rather than to drag all that back up and reopen wounds that are beginning to heal I would like to celebrate the twenty six Untold Eurobodallians who, in their own way, represent us all.

This year has seen many in the community deservedly recognised for their efforts in their chosen roles. I would now like to pay tribute to the rest of the community who stepped up, who supported their families during the most difficult of Bmes, who reached out to neighbours, who offered a hand. The thousands who stood under blood red skies and recognised their neighbours and gave when able, in what ever way they could, even if it was just a reassuring smile.

Currently on exhibiBon in Moruya is “Untold Eurobodalla”, featuring the work of Lee Grant and Amadis Lacheta. Described as “Untold Eurobodalla takes a lateral approach to examining the mul tude of ways that local residents contribute to the place they call home”.

I was asked to write a piece on The Spirit of Place for the Pos)ace Spirit of place or genius loci refers to the unique, dis nc ve and cherished aspects of a place. It is something our Aboriginal ancestors understood in mately and lived on a daily basis. As we have become more separate from the earth in our modern lives, coming to know and genuinely appreciate the spirit of place that exists here in the Eurobodalla provides an opportunity for healing, stewardship and deepening our connec on to both this place and each other.

For many to recognise a spirit of place o$en requires leaving that place for some me. Memories begin to reduce, as if making a rich stock, leaving you with the pure essence. It is that essence that you yearn to return to, and when you do, it is with new eyes. You see the small details, you remember the smells, the sounds, the li'le vigne'es that characterise the uniqueness of place.

A spirit of place is much like the soul of a treasured old friend. Irrespec ve of how long you have been apart the coming together once again requires no words. There is an immediate understanding and recogni on. The same applies to a special place, whether it be a headland, a beach, a creek, river or forest; and equally to the plants and wildlife that are as essen al to the place as its geology, landform and history.

Genera on upon genera on of people have come to the Eurobodalla to make their livelihoods and give birth to their dreams. While the area can simply be seen as a region on a map, delving deeper it contains many places that are each precious and unique. All have subtle differences yet form part of the bigger whole that comprises our region.

As people have come to reside here, they have chosen to make their homes in a par cular part of the shire. Some love the coast, others the rivers and valleys. Each brings with them beagle weekly : Vol 188 December 31st 2020

2

editorial a memory of where they have come from, whether it be a city, other country areas or from afar, each from a place with its own unique spirit. And that spirit can be one they miss, yearn for and want to recreate. It takes me to quieten the mind and recognise a new place and to respect it for what it is. To become part of that place, to find unity and connec on with the land and community.

Vol 16 September 15th 2017 28 April December 7th, 2017 Vol 48 27th 2018

The recent bushfires forced all of us to think about and endeavour to protect our special places. Ini ally and understandably there was a focus on the human cost; people, homes and livelihoods, but then came the realisa on of the drama c and significant loss suffered by our environment. Our wildlife and bush, the impact on our creeks, rivers and sea. The very fabric of our place was decimated. Yet the spirit of our place endures, and in hope, our natural and human communi es will heal and be reborn as part of the ongoing cycle of life.

Above: Beagle Editor, Lei Parker Photo: Lee Grant

Lee Grant and Amadis Lacheta Untold Eurobodalla Un*l Sun 7 February 2021 at The Bas, Moruya

As a region we have been sorely impacted, but as a community we have hopefully grown. There may sBll be parochialism between our towns and Batemans Bay may never see eye to eye with Moruya or Narooma but this year we saw the three towns recognise each other under the same banner, and stand shoulder to shoulder. In recent weeks we have seen residents come together with rakes on their own beaches cleaning up debris with a Pride of Place. Neighbours have reunited with neighbours and, to a certain degree, we have returned to “new normal”. I hope that the “new normal” is a “beJer normal” and that 2021 is the year we are able to apply the many learnings of 2020. unBl next—lei Beagle Editor…….. Lei Parker 0405100257 All Enquiries please email beagleweeklynews@gmail.com PO Box 3029 Tuross Head, NSW 2537 Copyright © South Coast Beagle Pty Ltd. All rights reserved. The Beagle Weekly is owned by SOUTH COAST BEAGLE PTY. LTD.

beagle weekly : Vol 188 December 31st 2020

3

community The NSW Police Force is encouraging the South Coast community to stay local this New Year’s Eve and enjoy celebra*ons from home.

16 September policing 15th 2017operaBon will be in place on Thursday (31 December 2020) and Friday (1January AVolhigh-visibility 28 April December 7th, 2017 Vol 48 27th 2018 2021), to ensure the safety of the community.

Locally, it will involve general duBes police from the South Coast Police District, as well as proacBve crime teams, detecBves and highway patrol police.

District Commander, Superintendent Greg Moore, said police will be out and about across the community focusing on public safety, alcohol-related crime and anB-social behaviour.

“Although this year’s celebraBons look very different to previous events, we sBll want everyone to see out 2020 safely and have a memorable start to 2021,” Supt Moore said.

“We are urging the community to stay local and celebrate at home or their accommodaBon this year, ensuring the Public Health Order guidelines for gatherings are followed.

“For those who do go out and about, expect to see plenty of police officers.

“We have zero tolerance for dangerous, criminal or anB-social behaviour, so anyone caught puPng other people’s lives at risk, or spoiling the fun for others, will be dealt with swi7ly.

“Our best advice is to plan ahead how you are gePng to and from your selected celebraBons – whether it be public transport, pre-arranged transport or organising a designated driver,” Supt Moore said.

For more informaBon on the Public Health Orders for gatherings, please visit; hJps://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/what-you-can-and-cant-do-under-rules The South Coast District has a significant increase in populaBon to the area with family visitors and holiday tourist. We urge the community to be vigilant and secure their valuable items at all Bmes. Do not leave items in cars, secure your property in your homes, while camping or caravanning. Don’t become an easy target for thieves.

Visit www.bom.gov.au for updated weather forecasts and warnings.

beagle weekly : Vol 188 December 31st 2020

4

community

Temporary extra parking in Batemans Vol 16 September 15th 2017 Bay CBD 28 April December 7th, 2017 Vol 48 27th 2018 Extra parking will be available in the Batemans Bay CBD from mid-morning today.

Eurobodalla Council has opened up one of the football fields at Mackay Park for free all-day parking throughout January.

As people flock to the popular waterfront area, Council said the overflow parking was needed.

“The Bay is incredibly busy and that’s fantasBc, but parking really is at a premium,” a spokesperson said.

“The temporary car park will make it easier for people to get into town and enjoy the great food, fun, and shopping on offer, all the while staying Covid-safe of course.”

The council is encouraging CBD workers to make use of Mackay Park, freeing up parking spaces right in town for shoppers and diners.

To access the overflow car park, turn west off the highway at the Beach Road intersecBon. Signs will be in place. The main shopping precinct is a short walk away.

The car park is free and will open every day unBl Australia Day. Council will then set about repairing the field in plenty of Bme for football season.

www.iga.com.au/catalogue

beagle weekly : Vol 188 December 31st 2020

5

community

Widening of Clyde Street west turn-around area Motorists travelling on Clyde Street west in Batemans Bay are advised that the turn-around area at 2017 the end of the street will be widened to accommodate long Vol 16 September 15th 28 December 7th, 2017 Vol 48 April 27th 2018 vehicles.

Work will start on Monday 4 January 2021 as part of the Batemans Bay Bridge replacement project and will take place between 7am and 6pm on weekdays and between 8am and 1pm on Saturdays.

The turn-around area will remain open under traffic control during construcBon for up to six weeks, weather permiPng. This work will include permanent removal of three parallel parking spaces and temporary construcBon impacts to 14 car parking spaces around the turning area at the western end of Clyde Street, including the single loading bay near the private jeJy. Property, jeJy and pedestrian access will be maintained at all Bmes.

Remaining parallel and perpendicular parking spaces along Clyde Street west will be available during this work.

In addiBon, Clyde Street boat ramp will be open with eight boat and trailer parking spaces available.

Motorists are advised short intermiJent stoppages may occur and are asked to drive to the condiBons and follow the direcBons of signs and traffic control.

Transport for NSW thanks road users for their paBence during this Bme. For more informaBon on the Batemans Bay bridge replacement project, go to nswroads.work/BatemansBayBridge.

For the latest traffic updates download the Live Traffic NSW App, visit livetraffic.com or call 132 701.

beagle weekly : Vol 188 December 31st 2020

6

Community—light up the bay ‘LIGHT UP THE BAY’ – THE SHOW MUST GO ON Businesses and community leaders across Batemans Bay have once again overcome great challenges, weather, COVID-19 and a busy tourist rush, in the lead up to the Light Up The Bay CommemoraBve light display event. As15th the2017 saying goes, the show must go on, and the organisers are excited for the community to Vol 16 September 28 December 7th, 2017 Vol 48 April 27th 2018 gather and mark the one year anniversary of the onset of the Black Summer bushfires on their town.

‘Light Up The Bay’, hosted by the Batemans Bay Business and Tourism Chamber as part of the 'Love the Bay' iniBaBve, features a stunning light display and busker style music on the Batemans Bay foreshore from 6pm Bll 10pm. The event includes a commemoraBve ceremony from 8pm, aJended by several local dignitaries including NSW Resilience Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons, local RFS Captain Ian Aitken, Federal Member for Gilmore Ms Fiona Phillips and several business representaBves. Busking on the foreshore and Mara Mia Walkway will commence at 6pm, and the public is encouraged to enjoy dinner or a takeaway meal at a local eatery before or a7er visiBng the foreshore to see the lights. The event is alcohol-free.

Businesses from across Batemans Bay and Mogo have pledged support for the event, and shops, restaurants and cafes will be extending trading for the evening on Thursday 31 December 2020 – to allow locals and visitors the chance to book tables and enjoy this meaningful evening together with the community, in line with COVID-safe guidelines.

Batemans Bay’s Chamber President Mathew Hatcher looks forward to bringing the community together, one year on, saying 'Our Batemans Bay community are certainly fighters. Despite concerns around COVID-19 outbreaks in parts of Sydney and the changeable weather, we know that December 31 is an important date for all of us, and we need to recognise its significance together. This commemoraBve event is an opportunity to come together to thank the RFS and all of those who have helped our community get back on its feet.’

‘Thanks to all our volunteers and generous sponsors such as Hertz (major event sponsor), Beyond Bank, Mogo Wildlife Park and other local businesses, we have been able to forge on and we look forward to gathering and reflecBng on how far we’ve come in the last year. We know that in the current climate, not everyone who would like to aJend will be able to, so we’ll be livestreaming the official part from 8pm on Facebook on New Years’ Eve as well. We'd love supporters of our community and family and friends to join us online from wherever they are.’

Event organisers are encouraging all visitors to observe guidelines to avoid the spread of COVID-19 for the event:  No admiJance if you are from Sydney’s Northern Beaches or areas where a posiBve case has been idenBfied.  Please bring your ID. No admiJance without ID.  Bring your mask and wear it indoors in public venues  Download the Service NSW app before arrival  Sign in with our event QR code with the app on arrival  Keep your distance of 1.5m from other groups  Use the free hand saniBser distributed at the event Seek assistance from one of our COVID marshals in hi-vis vests if you need help with the app or checking in with the QR code.

EVENT INFORMATION Date/Bme: Thursday 31 December, 6pm-midnight (busking/musicians and light display) Formal launch commencing: 8pm

Facebook Live Stream: Starts 7:55pm - hJps://www.facebook.com/LoveTheBayBB/

beagle weekly : Vol 188 December 31st 2020

7

community

Vol 16 September 15th 2017 28 April December 7th, 2017 Vol 48 27th 2018

beagle weekly : Vol 188 December 31st 2020

8

community

Bega: A solemn memorial one year on Flags are flying at half-mast in LiJleton Gardens in Bega to acknowledge the first anniversary of Vol 16today September 15th 2017 28 December 7th, 2017 Vol 48 April 27th 2018 the start of the Black Summer bushfires in our Shire.

“The Black Summer bushfires had a devastaBng effect on our community and our shire as a whole,” Mayor Russell Fitzpatrick said.

“People right across the Shire have been affected, some more than others, and the recovery process is ongoing.

“While the bushfire emergency lasted for 64 days, affecBng people, villages and localiBes across the Shire at different Bmes, we paused today, twelve months on from when the bushfires first started to directly impact our community, to reflect on what happened and take another step in the healing process.

“While we sBll have a long way to go, Council is commiJed to working alongside the community and our partners to conBnue doing everything possible to assist in the recovery journey.”

The flags were lowered this morning by Bega Valley Shire Mayor, Russell Fitzpatrick; General Manager, Leanne Barnes; Director of Community, Environment and Planning, Alice Howe; and NSW Rural Fire Service Far South Coast District Manager, Superintendent John Cullen.

beagle weekly : Vol 188 December 31st 2020

Above: Bega Valley Shire Mayor, Russell Fitzpatrick; Bega Valley Shire Council Director Community, Environment and Planning, Alice Howe; Bega Valley Shire Council General Manager, Leanne Barnes; and NSW Rural Fire Service Far South Coast District Manager, Superintendent John Cullen in Li'leton Gardens this morning.

9

community

OUT NOW—your latest Beagle Abode : Eurobodalla’s leading real estate guide Vol 16 September 15th 2017 Vol 28 December 7th, 2017 Vol 48 April 27th 2018

The beagle abode is an online weekly Eurobodalla real estate guide showcasing the current Eurobodalla market and our many realtors.

The beagle abode is the new addiBon to the South Coast Beagle that owns The Beagle and the South Coast Travel Guide: The Nature Coast of NSW : from Durras to The Tilbas The Beagle Abode has been established to provide that service while also providing our readers with a glossy overview of latest properBes on the market each week.

You can find Beagle Abode on the Beagle website under REAL ESTATE The latest Beagle Abode lisBngs are also available each week as a FlipBook on the website and also distributed to readers via our social media pages and our twice weekly mailouts.

The Beagle Trades and Business Directory provides local Trades and Businesses a free lisBng in a hope that they might gain work from it, and conBnue to provide employment and economic benefit to their families and our communiBes. AdverBsing is usually outside the affordability of many smaller businesses and sole traders.

The Beagle supports locals. These lisBngs are FREE. If you are a local business and would like to be listed please contact us as we o7en turn over these lisBngs to give everyone a fair go.

Email beagleweeklynews@gmail.com Trades and Businesses can also list themselves on the Beagle Trades and Business Group in Facebook at hJps://www.facebook.com/groups/1303512213142880/

beagle weekly : Vol 188 December 31st 2020

10

reading Gadfly 150 By Robert Macklin There’s a feeling around my beloved Tuross that 2020 was so awful that surely 2021 is going to be an absolute ripper. The virus will go the way of all those other diseases that have fallen Vol 16toSeptember the power15th of science 2017 and human ingenuity and we’ll get back to the pleasures of life in 28 April December 7th, 2017 Vol 48 27th 2018

the little pocket of paradise we call the South Coast.

Well, hear-hear to that!

Our extended family has been coming to Tuross to share in its restorative delights since the early 1950s. My wife Wendy’s parents used to make the journey from their home base at Temora in the Riverina well before there was a bridge over the Clyde at Nelligen or Bateman’s Bay. They rented that big Queenslander-style home on Tuross Boulevard for the Christmas holidays and for six weeks the whole family made serious inroads into the fish population of the lake and the waves off Coila Beach. In fact, they became so hooked on fishing and boating that Wendy’s brother Peter ran the magazine Australian Family Boating for most of his adult life.

The first night we met in Canberra, Wendy told me (an unrepentant Queenslander) of Tuross and once I finally persuaded my VW beetle to get past Bungendore without breaking down, we made that turn-off from the Highway to the promised Tuross Head. It was dusk and 100 metres in was a sign: ‘Beware Peacocks crossing.’

“Oh really,” I scoffed. “Peacocks?”

Wendy nodded. “Look.” And there before us was a magnificent bird, tail expanded and glowing in the light of the westering sun. I stamped on the brakes, drawing to a halt a couple of metres from the imperious creature who, with a disdainful shake of his head, continued his lordly way across the track. I was hooked.

And as we explored its many attractions, from fishing from Jim Laing’s spotless boats with their inboard engines; exploring the surrounding bush (and later camping with the kids) renting an amazing range of holiday houses with friends and family, it became part of our lives…in so many ways, the best part.

Finally in 1994 we bought our own place overlooking the beach and the waves, first in partnership with another couple and a few years later it became ours alone. At first, we let it to visitors when we weren’t using it, then gradually as I found it ever more conducive to good writing, it became just as much a part of our lives as the Canberra house.

Then came the bushfires and coronavirus when we found ourselves in Tuross as the rest of the world, it seemed, was filled with disaster. It was our shelter as the fires spared us and the thunderbolts of Covid-19 rained down elsewhere.

For our fellow Turossians who depended on the tourists it was very tough indeed, yet we heard barely a single complaint.

Instead, we looked after each other as best we could, while waiting for better times over the 2021 rainbow.

So now we await the good news – nothing special, just the way it was before will do. The omens are good: action against climate change is the new black; Australians are beginning to understand the Aboriginal horrors of colonialism and to find true value in the love of country that sustained them; and perhaps the Trump experience will startle us enough to begin thinking for ourselves, geographically as well as historically.

Tuross itself is changing – tremendous investment as others have discovered its charms, and the new people are bringing with them the ideas and attitudes of modern Australia. The result, friends say, is the best of all possible worlds.

But we’ve always thought that anyway. robert@robertmacklin.com beagle weekly : Vol 188 December 31st 2020

11

reading

Eden-Monaro bushfire anniversaries offer opportunity to reflect and connect By Kristy McBain This on the sits to the south west of Cobargo. The orange skies that surround it are familiar to all Vol 16house September 15thhill 2017 28 April December 7th, 2017 Vol 48 27th 2018 in our wider Eden-Monaro community.

The Bme we shared under these skies between late November 2019 and early February 2020 looms large in the life of our region.

Some people and places have already marked the anniversary of their bushfire experience; I was with the Braidwood-Bombay community a few weeks ago with Anthony Albanese – almost 12 months to the day since fire destroyed local homes, pastures, livestock, bush land and wildlife. But as we approach New Year’s Eve and the first days of 2021, communiBes including Cobargo, Quaama, Kiah, Pericoe, Nerrigundah, Tumbarumba, Baltow and surrounds will be reflecBng on the day that changed their lives forever.

There is no right or wrong way to mark these anniversaries. These occasions will sBr emoBons and they will conBnue to do so with every year that passes.

They are an opportunity to reflect on what has been achieved, to support one another, and to share thoughts and feelings. It is okay not to feel okay around these occasions – and I would encourage anyone struggling through this Bme to reach out for support. I hope that what comes from this period is a restored energy to rise to the challenges that remain. It’s easy to be buried by what has been lost, but what I take from this photo of the house on the hill is how much remains – the house, the proud trees that surround it, and the family who loves it.

This home and photo belong to photographer Ben Marden. Ben’s wife, Amrei lost her yoga business on the main street of Cobargo.

Ben and his family took the Yankee’s Gap Fire of 2018 as a huge wake-up call and steadily prepared their property over the 18 months that followed, prior to the 2019 New Year’s Eve fire. When the flames came, Ben Photo credit: Ben Marden Photography, BenMarden.com.au was in a posiBon to stay and defend the historic weatherboard house and eight other old Bmber buildings. Looking at this photo with that knowledge, I am reminded of what we can all do to make ourselves safer and more resilient in future.

Those preparaBons will be different for each person and each family based on their circumstances – but let’s not let the lessons of our experience 12 months ago disappear with Bme. For advice, start with the Rural Fire Service and Red Cross websites.

Not every home that was well prepared was spared from the flames but let’s put ourselves in the best posiBon we can moving forward.

However you choose to mark this Bme, know that you are not alone, every person in this community has their own personal experience; we face the future together.

For mental wellbeing and support talk to Life Line on 13 11 14, Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636, or Headspace on 1800 650 890. beagle weekly : Vol 188 December 31st 2020

12

reading

Traffic chaos in the Bay with more to come The Editor Vol 16 September 15th 2017 Does what will occur when the new 28anyone December 7th, 2017 Vol 48 April 27thknow 2018 Batemans Bay Bridge is opened? Will pedestrians and cyclists be able to use the exisBng bridge unBl it’s demolished and will it be le7 in the raised posiBon so the tourist ferry can cruise up and down the river unimpeded ?

The new traffic light arrangements at the Princes Kings Highway intersecBon did nothing to improve traffic flows.

The poliBcal influences with the bridge building haven’t helped a bit ! Once the bridge is open we will conBnue to have exactly the same queues all the way back to Nelligen because there has been nothing done about the traffic lights on Vesper Street at North Street and Beach Road that will cause the incoming traffic to the town to conBnually back up. The same thing will happen when they all want to go home. Two lanes from Cranbrook Road to the Princes Highway Kings Highway Roundabout and then into a single lane boJle neck.

Council has been saying for some years that the Link Rd just South of Batemans Bay, when it’s connected to the Princes Highway, will reduce the traffic volumes on Beach Rd from the Princes Highway through to Batehaven or Glenella Rd. Transport for NSW is responsible for the final stage of the work.

The current proposal involves construcBng a new roundabout on the Princes Highway and an extension of Glenella Road. Council has confirmed that Transport for NSW are indicaBng works will commence in late 2021. Nothing will happen on the Spine Road Bypass unBl at least the 2021-2022 State budget allocates funds so don't expect traffic to get any beJer on Beach Road and Vesper Street for some Bme. I have requested from Council an up to date traffic management plan of the Batemans Bay CBD area. It appears they do not have one. It also appears that they have not modelled the impact the new bridge will have on the Batemans Bay CBD area once the old off-ramp into Clyde Street is removed and the town CBD is effecBvely bypassed.

It appears that they have no strategy for a traffic management plan to provide for public transport users, locally and for long haul and are simply puPng in place knee jerk arrangements to remove traffic islands and put in a turning circle for buses at Clyde Street West? The latest direcBve is for all vehicles greater than 8.8m in length to exit the CBD area along the pedestrian friendly secBon of Orient Street. What say them to all of this? Nothing.

Allan Brown, Catalina

beagle weekly : Vol 188 December 31st 2020

13

An open le@er to the Mayor of Eurobodalla Shire Council (Councillor Innes) cc: Councillors Lindsay Brown, Phil Constable, Anthony Mayne, Patrick Vol 16 September 15th 2017 McGinlay, Maureen Nathan, Robert 28 April December 7th, 2017 Vol 48 27th 2018 Pollock OAM, Jack Tait, James Thomson Dear Mayor Innes, 2020 – what a year! Fire, storms, flood, pandemic. In Eurobodalla, we were especially hard-hit by fire which took lives and devastated our environment, health and economy. The BOM/CSIRO State of the Climate 2020 warns that severe fires, storms and extreme temperatures could become the ‘new normal’ within 20 years; a future we must work our hardest to prevent, but alas, we must also prepare for.

(1)

Above: A year on from the catastrophic bushfires, locals gathered alongside Jack Egan's half melted dinghy in front of where his home used to stand in North Rosedale, calling for urgent, meaningful climate ac on from all levels of government. Photo by Nathan Harris

As representaBves elected by the people of the shire, this leJer asks for immediate commitments from yourself as Mayor, to lead your fellow Councillors in supporBng our wider community who are calling out loudly for acBon on climate change.

The 2019/20 megafires of last spring and summer tragically took the lives of three residents and countless wildlife, livestock and pets, burnt 80% of our shire’s forests, razed 501 homes and 879 outbuildings, and brought businesses to their knees.

One year on, we cannot forget the summer of fear, smoke and flames. As Councillors and residents of our lovely shire, you also would have suffered alongside many of us - sharing the constant fear of bushfires for months and choking through the hazardous smoke, sBnging our eyes and throats. The ash smothered the land and made its way into our rivers and oceans. It Bghtened our chests and made us cough and wheeze, causing significant health problems both in the short and longer term. (2) The pollutants from the smoke even made their way into the bloodstream of pregnant women, lodging into the respiratory organ of unborn babies - the placenta. This has been found to have dire health effects including increased risk of preterm birth and other health complicaBons, some known to persist throughout their lives. (3) It seems fiPng that we write to you directly a7er another extremely devastaBng weather event, on Boxing Day, that has wreaked havoc for our farmers in the region. An intense storm cell which brought damaging winds, heavy rain and hail, destroyed summer crops on mulBple farms and with them a solid amount of potenBal earnings in what should be the most profitable Bme of year. Consequently, once more, placing pressure on the viability of small-scale producers' livelihoods and the stability of their mental health and income.

This ‘unprecedented’ year was no freak event, it was predicted and is likely to be repeated again, and worse, as the planet conBnues to heat. And so, having just experienced a couple of decades of unnatural disasters rolled into a single year, we call upon the Council to take the following ac*ons: ACTION No. 1 – State the obvious We need you to publicly state to all residents in the shire that climate change is real and is the fundamental cause of last summer’s losses. While undeniable, the message becomes more powerful when expressed by beagle weekly : Vol 188 December 31st 2020

14

community leaders in our community. In parBcular, as Mayor, in your leadership role.

The Royal Commission into Na onal Natural Disaster Arrangements made it very clear that climate change drove the severity of the bushfires: Vol 16 September 15th 2017 “Natural disasters have changed, and it has become clear to us that the na on’s disaster 28 April December 7th, 2017 Vol 48 27th 2018

management arrangements must also change.

Extreme weather has already become more frequent and intense because of climate change; further global warming over the next 20 to 30 years is inevitable. Globally, temperatures will con nue to rise, and Australia will have more hot days and fewer cool days. Sea levels are also projected to con nue to rise. Tropical cyclones are projected to decrease in number but increase in intensity. Floods and bushfires are expected to become more frequent and more intense. Catastrophic fire condi ons may render tradi onal bushfire predic on models and firefigh ng techniques less effec ve. … the summer of 2019-2020 – in which some communi es experienced drought, heatwaves, bushfires, hailstorms, and flooding – provided only a glimpse of the types of events that Australia may face in the future.” (4) Aside from the Royal Commission, countless individuals, organisaBons and businesses across the naBon and our local Eurobodalla Shire are raising the alarm for leaders, including yourself, to urgently act on the risks from climate-related events. These include growing costs to many sectors in our community including health, environment, and economy.

ACTION No. 2 – Project a sense of calm resolve We need you, and your Councillors, to provide reassurance to all residents in the shire, by publicly demonstraBng your genuine concern for their wellbeing, parBcularly a7er the devastaBng year we have had.

Many residents are sBll hurBng deeply. Heat waves, windy days, the smell of smoke or a local fire alert, sBll triggers fear of last summer’s devastaBon, occurring again.

ACTION No. 3 - Declare a climate emergency The Eurobodalla Shire must be commended on taking acBon on climate change through its many achievements and future commitments as outlined in its Emissions ReducBon Plan (2017-2021) as well as joining the CiBes Power Partnership. Given the climate driven events of 2019/20, declaring a climate emergency would be the obvious and strategic next step. Before we can act on any emergency situaBon, we need to clearly acknowledge and outline the problem. It's only then we can appropriately prioriBse and resource the urgent soluBons required. We do not have another decade to waste.

We should join the other 98 Australian local governments - including Kiama, Bega-Valley and Wollongong who have already voted YES to declaring a climate emergency. UN secretary general, António Guterres, has this month called upon all countries to declare a climate emergency unBl the world achieves net-zero emissions.(5) Every shire, state and country must do all it can - it is only when we unite our efforts, we can achieve the seemingly unachievable.

Declaring a climate emergency is not symbolic, it has tangible benefits for the community. Byron shire mayor,

beagle weekly : Vol 188 December 31st 2020

15

community Simon Richardson, in speaking of the very recent beach erosion, has said that, in the face of recent climatedriven disasters such as fire, storm, flood and erosion, vulnerable shires and the naBon as a whole need to, ‘… do be'er … in puIng policies in place which actually protect [the economic security of their communiBes] … and seize the opportuni es that are available.’(6) Vol 16 September 15th 2017

28 April December 2017 Vol wording 48 27th The of 2018 a7th, Eurobodalla climate emergency declaraBon could be: -

“Council declares that we are living in a me of climate emergency that requires focused and strategic ac ons at the local government level, for the benefit and safety of our whole community, in both the immediate and longer terms.”

The Shire’s Emissions ReducBon Plan 2017-2021 is due for review next year - there are dozens of excellent goals in this plan that have yet to become reality. Let us make 2021 the year we review and revive the plan, making sure it is aligned with climate science and engages our community, our businesses and industries. A total of $1 million dollars has already been saved from emission reducBon acBons in our shire - let's take these savings and invest them into further miBgaBon and adaptaBon projects such as installing a network of electric car charging staBons and connecBng towns with paths and cycleways.

Our Climate AdaptaBon Plan is also overdue for release - this informaBon is essenBal to our residents, especially as many are rebuilding their lives; they need to know how to do so as safely as possible in the changing climate. A dra7 plan must be released urgently for public review.

Our neighboring shires have many focused and strategic acBons we can draw upon, including Bega Valley’s Climate Resilience Strategy 2050 and Shoalhaven’s Shoalhaven Adapta on Plan. (7, 8) ACTION No. 4 – Locally implement relevant recommenda*ons of the Royal Commission We need you to implement the local government-level recommendaBons and push State and Federal governments to urgently and thoroughly acBon the other recommendaBons of the Royal Commission into Na onal Natural Disaster Arrangements (4), the NSW Bushfire Inquiry (9) and the Emergency Leaders’ for Climate AcBon Bushfire and Climate Plan. (10) ACTION No. 5 – Take our local businesses and industries on the journey to transform and take advantage of many new ini*a*ves and benefits We need you to lead and support local businesses and industries to take up the many opportuniBes inherent in climate soluBons: in clean energy; electric transport; energy efficiency; mosaic burning; carbon farming; biodiversity conservaBon and enBrely new industries. These opportuniBes include increasing employment, not losing jobs.

ACTION No. 6 – Accept our invita*on to a solu*ons-focused community group’s climate ac*on forum in Autumn 2021 We want to work cooperaBvely with council, business and all shire residents to develop and implement soluBons. Last summer Eurobodalla’s people showed the world the graphic and tragic consequences of where the world is heading if we fail to reverse global warming. Only a couple of months later, at the beginning of our rebuilding efforts, we went on to show our incredible willingness to follow the science and good leadership on COVID-19. We now deserve to see the same science-driven leadership on climate acBon. Let's take the lessons we learnt from the COVID-19 pandemic and apply them in fighBng climate change work together, unite our communiBes, focus on prevenBon, listen to the experts and act quickly.

We look forward to your response and ongoing engagement on these crucial maJers. Yours in support of our sBll beauBful but perilously threatened shire, its people and its nature, Names and addresses of the signatory groups and individuals provided (too many to publish)

beagle weekly : Vol 188 December 31st 2020

16

reading

Arundha* Roy: ‘The pandemic is a portal’ What is this thing that has happened to us? It’s a virus, yes. In and of itself it holds no moral brief. But it is definitely more than a virus. Some believe Vol September 15th 2017 it’s16 God’s way of bringing 28 December 7th, 2017 us to our senses. Others that it’s a Chinese Vol 48 April 27th 2018 conspiracy to take over the world. Whatever it is, coronavirus has made the mighty kneel and brought the world to a halt like nothing else could.

Our minds are sBll racing back and forth, longing for a return to “normality”, trying to sBtch our future to our past and refusing to acknowledge the rupture.

But the rupture exists. And in the midst of this terrible despair, it offers us a chance to rethink the doomsday machine we have built for ourselves.

Nothing could be worse than a return to normality.

Historically, pandemics have forced humans to break with the past and imagine their world anew. This one is no different. It is a portal, a gateway between one world and the next.

We can choose to walk through it, dragging the carcasses of our prejudice and hatred, our avarice, our data banks and dead ideas, our dead rivers and smoky skies behind us. Or we can walk through lightly, with liJle luggage, ready to imagine another world. And ready to fight for it.

MOGO NURSERY couldn't send these burnt Bmbers to the Bp because they had a history. Phil and Gayle of Mogo Nursery say “They are handsplit stringybark slabs that formed the internal walls of the 1870's built coJage at 37 Sydney St. Mogo .

“I can remember reading about a Spanish Galleon visiBng Sydney Harbour that was on newspaper that was used to wallpaper the slabs. I was renovaBng the shed ,where they were stored, so moved them to the back of the nursery to protect them from potenBal flooding! They were stacked up against the wall of the shop next door.

“A fire bomb set the slabs alight on New Year's Eve 19/20 and they burnt intensely for three days.No amount of water could exBnguish them. The wall was a firewall and it sustained intense heat but did not ignite. A true testament to the value of firewalls. The structure represents the history of the slabs and the destrucBon of forest, habitat, people's dreams and possessions reeked by the devastaBng bushfires of that black summer.

The steel rings are remnants of one of our ferBlizer bins.

“Nature is wild, forgiving and very unforgiving. In this volaBle and uncertain future may we acknowledge climate change and adapt to a renewable and foreseeable future.” beagle weekly : Vol 188 December 31st 2020

17

Reading—history 100 years ago—January 1st 1921 A HAPPY AND PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR TO ALL A big day’s sport, with Cinderella at night, will take place at Nelligen to-day.

Vol 16 September 15th 2017

28 April December 7th,J.2017 UP-TO-DATE.– Hanson’s new Ford motor lorry has arrived and has been put into acBon in conveying Vol 48 27thMr. 2018 his cordials from his factory to the customers.

“EXAMINERS” WANTED.— We require about half-a-dozen copies of last week’s “Examiner.” Will subscribers who have finished with their paper kindly return to this office?

NARROW ESCAPE.– A7er crossing the ferry at Nelligen one of the cars bearing a number of “Th’ Drolls” company, failed to answer the helm and backed down the slope leading to the river. If the punt had not blocked its backward career the car and occupants must have entered the water. This mishap was narrowly averted, and a7er much difficulty the car was removed from its periless posiBon. (The troupe of variety entertainers were on their way from Braidwood to Moruya.)

UNIVERSITY STUDENTS.– The town and district are well represented in published lists of University passes.

Last Saturday’s papers contained the names of Miss Vera M. Colefax (Moruya), Miss Lily Brown (Bodalla) and Miss Electra P. Rankin (Eurobodalla) all of whom are in the Arts course. An earlier table contained the name of Mr. Alan AnneJs (Mogo) who has just successfully completed his fourth year in the faculty of Medicine.

MAGISTERIAL INQUIRY The Magisterial Inquiry was held by Mr. W. Jermyn, J.P., on 23rd Dec., 1920, as to the cause of death of John Thomas Brogan and Kathleen Margaret Brogan, of Moruya.

Daniel John O’Neill deposed: I am Sergeant of Police and reside at Moruya. Last night at about 8 p.m. in consequence of something that was told to me I came to the Moruya River just below the Moruya Hospital, and shortly a7er arrival I commenced dragging the river with grappling irons from a boat. Constable Fuller and others were in another boat dragging the river also, and at 8.40 p.m. I saw Constable Fuller recover the body from deep water of the man whom I idenBfied as John Thomas Brogan, and almost immediately a7er he recovered the body of a young girl whom I was told was Kathleen Margaret Brogan. Every effort was made by me, the doctor and others to restore life….

William John Fuller deposed said: I am a Police Constable staBoned at Moruya. Last night at 8.40 o’clock I recovered from the Moruya River the bodies of John Thomas Brogan and Kathleen Margaret Brogan. The bodies were about twenty feet from the bank of the river and in about twelve feet of water.

Philomena Brogan deposed said: Yesterday evening I was bathing in the Moruya River near the Hospital with my sister Kathleen Margaret who was 14 years of age, my brother Jack who is 12 years old, Ellie who is 11 years of age, Josephine who is 8 years old, and three other children aged 6, 5 and 3 years, all my brothers and sisters. My own age is 16 years. We all came to the river together, accompanied by our father, John Thomas Brogan at about 7 p.m. We all went into the river to bathe, with the excepBon of my father. A7er we had been in the water about a quarter of an hour, my brother Jack got into trouble in the water by gePng out of his depth, and he cried out for help. My sister Ellie went to help him. I a7erwards saw my father in the beagle weekly : Vol 188 December 31st 2020

18

Reading—history water. …

On account of the shock my mother is too unwell to aJend this inquest. My father could swim and Jack can swim a liJle, but neither I nor any of the others are able to swim. My father was 53 years of age on the 29th Oct. last, and Kathleen was 14 years of age on the 17th of February last. I do not know if my father le7 a will or life was15th insured.

Volif16his September 2017 He owned the house in which we live and about two acres of land adjoining. My 28 December 7th, 2017 Vol 48 April 27th 2018 father was not a strong man; he was in a delicate state of health.

John Brogan, deposed said: - I am 12 years of age and am the son of the deceased John Thomas Brogan and brother of the deceased Kathleen Margaret Brogan and reside at Gundary, Moruya. …

I was in the water about a quarter of an hour when I found myself out of my depth, I called out for help and Ellie came to my rescue. My father then came into the water and someone pulled me into shallow water. I then saw Kathleen struggling in the water and called to father to save her. Father turned round and I saw him sink in the water. He did not rise to the surface again. My sister Philomena Bed some clothing together and threw one end out to Kathleen, but was unable to reach her, as the clothing was washed down by the Bde. Kathleen then sank, but rose twice before disappearing finally. I have seen the bodies of my father and sister since they were recovered from the water. Mr. Shoebridge arrived on the scene about two minutes a7er Kathleen sank and I saw him diving in the river endeavouring to recover the bodies.

John Francis Shoebridge deposed, said: I am a Bmber agent and reside at Milton. Yesterday evening about 7.15 duck I heard screaming from the river bank. I looked towards the river, but could see no one. I ran down to the river and saw several children in bathing costumes on the bank. They told me that their father and sister Kathleen were in the water and pointed to where they last saw them. I immediately went into the water and dived unBl exhausted, and could not locate the bodies. A man named Colefax came along in a boat and he also dived into the water, but he was unable to locate the bodies.

Next Teensafe course January 2021 school hols - book now The next Teensafe course is planned for the school holidays for Thursday January 21st, 2021 at Moruya Speedway 10am -3pm. To book email garys.home@bigpond.com The locally volunteer-run TeenSafe program is conducted during school holiday periods at the Motor Sports Complex on Donnellys Drive, Moruya by a group of dedicated driving instructors. The TeenSafe program commenced in 1999 as a request from members of the local community to provide young people with information and practical experiences in safe driving. 'L' and 'P' plate drivers develop driving skills in a controlled environment and under the supervision of trained instructors.

Their aim is to give 'L' and 'P' plate drivers basic driving skills and experiences in a safe and controlled environment. The courses are held over 1 day 10am-3pm with a maximum of 6-7 students.

The program consists of both theory and pracBcal elements and teaches basic skills as well as safety aspects of driving. It is a detailed presentaBon teaching driving skills in a fun, posiBve and safe manner with emphasis being placed on slowing down, hazard percepBon and the consequences of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. TuiBon is on a 'one to one' basis in the vehicles - all supplied by TeenSafe. beagle weekly : Vol 188 December 31st 2020

19

What’s on

All the known gigs to date: Dec 31st - Mark Dabbin – Batemans Bay Soldiers Club (7pm) Dec 31st - Vinyl Rain– Tuross Club (8pm) Vol 16 September 15th 2017 2831st December 7th, 2017 Dec - 27th New2018 Years Eve at the Moruya Waterfront 50.50 Vol 48 April Dec 31st - Southern Impact – Club Narooma (2pm) Dec 31st - Country Pumpkins – Batemans Bay Foreshore (6pm) Dec 31st - Dale Huddleston – Club Dalmeny (8pm) Dec 31st - CHAD at Club Catalina Dec 31st - DJ Jester at the Adelaide Hotel Moruya Dec 31st - Tony Jaggers at Tilba Valley Winery 2.30pm Dec 31st - The Cool at The Steampacket Nelligen Jan 1st - Roddy Reason – Soldiers Club (6.30pm) Jan 1st - Mel T and the Mix – Tomakin Club (7pm) Jan 2nd - Corey Legge at the Quarterdeck Narooma Jan 2nd - Dale Huddleston – Tuross Club (8pm) Jan 2nd - Dale Huddleston – Tuross Club (8pm) Jan 2nd - Intensity – Batemans Bay Soldiers Club (6.30pm)

Jan 3rd - Steve Benic at the Bodalla Dairy Shed 12:30pm to 4pm Jan 3rd - Rob Simpson – Camel Rock Brewery (12.30pm) Jan 3rd - Intensity – Batemans Bay Soldiers Club (6.30pm) Jan 4th - Dale Huddleston – Club Narooma (5.30pm) Jan 5th - Rick Bamford – Club Narooma (5.30pm) Jan 6th - Joe Driscoll – Club Narooma (5.30pm) Jan 9th - Joe Quennell – Soldiers Club (6.30pm)

beagle weekly : Vol 188 December 31st 2020

20

What’s on

Vol 16 September 15th 2017 28 April December 7th, 2017 Vol 48 27th 2018

beagle weekly : Vol 188 December 31st 2020

21

cinema

Vol 16 September 15th 2017 28 April December 7th, 2017 Vol 48 27th 2018

beagle weekly : Vol 188 December 31st 2020

22

cinema

Vol 16 September 15th 2017 28 April December 7th, 2017 Vol 48 27th 2018

beagle weekly : Vol 188 December 31st 2020

23

arts Untold Eurobodalla, Lee Grant and Amadis Lacheta—12 December – 7 February 2021 Basil Sellers ExhibiBon Centre, Corner of Vulcan and Campbell Streets, Moruya, NSW 2537 02 4474 7355 Tuesday – Sunday, 10am – 4pm www.thebas.com.au Vol 16 September 15th 2017 28 April December 7th,Jeffery 2017 Phil & 27th Sue Vol 48 2018

Phil’s great grandfather, Philip Addecoat Jeffery, first came to Bodalla in 1848 and in 1872 acquired the land where Phil and his second wife Sue currently live in Moruya at Summerhill. His father Noel conBnued to work as a dairy farmer and Phil has wonderful memories of gePng up before dawn to help his father milk the cows and enjoying many beauBful sunrises.

Summerhill now has a series of homes and buildings that Phil and his family enjoy, including the outdoor kitchen and eaBng area where roast dinners with fresh garden vegetables are frequent. He has also designed and constructed an enormous aviary for his beloved zebra finches, and thanks to a gi7 from Sue is now breeding endangered Gouldian finches.

beagle weekly : Vol 188 December 31st 2020

24

arts

CABBI's 37th Annual Visual Arts Exhibi*on Vol 16 September 15th 2017 28 April December 7th, 2017 Vol 48 27th 2018

CreaBve Arts Batemans Bay Incorporated (CABBI) is showcasing the skills of local arBsts in its 37th Annual Visual Arts ExhibiBon. The exhibiBon features painBngs, sculptures, digital artworks and arBsan cra7, with all pieces eligible for the exhibiBon's Robert Picknell, 'Skinny Dippers', 2020.

People's Choice Awards.

Artworks can be nominated for the People's Choice Awards in four categories, including a new category for young arBsts. The winners will be announced at the conclusion of the exhibiBon, in a celebratory award ceremony open to the public.

On New Year's Eve the exhibiBon will be open unBl 6pm, coinciding with Batemans Bay Business and Tourism Chamber's Light up the Bay commemoraBve event.

Where: 3-5 Clyde Street, Batemans Bay (adjacent to the foreshore) Exhibi*on dates: now unBl Sunday 10 January 2021.

Opening hours: 10am - 4pm daily, except public holidays.

People's Choice Award event: Sunday 10 January 2021, from 6pm.

More info: T: 0407 960 690 W: www.cabbi.com.au

beagle weekly : Vol 188 December 31st 2020

25

arts

NAROOMA CAMERA CLUB News Narooma Camera Club closed its yearly compeBBon with the following Vol 16 September 15th 2017 results in the Image of the Year 28 April December 7th, 2017 Vol 48 27th 2018 December CompeBBon with 49 Images from 17 Members.

IMAGE OF THE YEAR Winner was Sue Lawson with “Only Memories LeN” Our judge for the evening said “The first thing I said about this image was WOW – and not in the good sense of wow but for the devastaBon in this photo. It certainly moved me and really does tell a story. I can’t fault this image for the story it tells. Such a powerful documentary photo.”

Highly Commended A Grade Deb Flynn with Destruc*on in the Mist Highly Commended B Grade Ally Aitken with Catch of the Day Highly Commended C Grade Judy Morgan with Blue Boy Points winners for the Year 2020 A Grade : 1. Deb Flynn with 87 2. Krysia St Clair with 39 3.

Rosy Williams with 19 Bed with Peter Jeffery with 19 B Grade : 1. Wendy Fisk with 49 2. Sue Lawson with 45 3. Allison Aitken with 44 C Grade : 1. Judy Morgan with 70 2.

Janet Linee with 45 3. Carolyn Bate with 11 Hope to see everyone from the club back next year …. A quick note of Thanks for the stella work our 2020 Team did.

beagle weekly : Vol 188 December 31st 2020

Above is an image of your new 2021 Team . Le7 to Right: Deb, Krysia, Katherine, Wendy, Wes, Jeremy, Sue and Gary (Russell away)

26

sports

Terry Lunn Blows Field Away at Tuross Vets Stableford Event Vol 16 September 15th 2017

Despite heavy over recent days the Tuross course 28 April December 7th, 2017 Vol 48 27thrains 2018 stood up really well for the 51 players who registered for the Tuross Veterans Golf single Stableford event held on 30 December. Scores were generally down on past weeks as a consequence of there being no run available due to the damp condiBons.

Winner on the day was Terry Lunn returning a7er a short absence with an outstanding score of 28 individual points for the nine holes played. Terry was followed home by Des Jackson on 23, Paul Pereira on 22 and Teri Swanbury on 20.

Minor prizes went to Steve Swanbury, Richard Kelly and Herb Muriwai on 20, Gayle MacAlpine, Leonie Snodgrass, Richard Wharton and Jennifer Gray on 19, Blaise Madden and Lance Shadbolt on 18, and finally Greg Bush, Michael Nordsvan, Shirley Quinlan, Barry Hoban, Rick Brake and Kevin Dukes on 17. Robert McKirdy scraped in amongst several low scores to take out the infamous Bradman award.

Broulee Runners Dec 30th 2020 This is the last week of an interesBng year for the Broulee Runners. Despite the Fires, Flood and Pandemic we were able to conBnue with 31 virtual events and 21 actual events. Currently we are only racing over the 5 kilometres to avoid over-crowding. This is important during this holiday period when larger numbers make it difficult to maintain social distancing.

This evening we had 82 starters with 66 actual runners in the 5 kilometres and the rest virtual runners. We welcomed James, Evan, and Caroline Minto to their first run with the group. Also, Ashley and Simon Clarke, Kate Crisp, Jessica Kennedy and Dom Rix made their first appearance.

There we plenty of personal beat Bmes and these were Mollie Kennedy, Anna Johnson, Myles and Rowan Grant, Gabriel Kennedy, Joe and Jo Whithear, Emma Burgess, Robyn Smith, and Niamh and Aislinn Scahill.

The star of the night was Rosie McPartland who recorded her 30th run and received her commemoraBve shirt. beagle weekly : Vol 188 December 31st 2020

27

classifieds

Vol 16 September 15th 2017 28 April December 7th, 2017 Vol 48 27th 2018

Casual Posi*ons - Friday, 15/1/21 in MORUYA Do you have a full Australian driver's licence, over 25, own a reliable, fully insured vehicle with a working 12volt socket adaptor and like driving?

Survey Hours: 8am-5pm Briefing: Thursday, 14/1/21. PM – TBC approx. 3 hours.

More informaBon - 1300 328 276. beagle weekly : Vol 188 December 31st 2020

28