Tweed Shire Residents Rally to Protect Koala Habitat from Luxury Caravan Development

Residents from across the Tweed Shire rallied together on Wednesday, April 3rd, to advocate for the preservation of koala habitat amidst plans for a luxury caravan development in Pottsville.

Initially, Tweed Shire Council Councillors unanimously rejected Development Application DA23/0302 for the proposed caravan park on 1126 Pottsville Road in September 2023. This decision was based on various concerns, including the ecological signifcance of the site, tree removal, proximity to coastal wetlands, potential impact on koala habitat, and sewerage issues.

However, Turner Contracting Pty Ltd, the property developers behind the proposed project, appealed this decision. Subsequently, an onsite conciliation conference meeting was held with the Commissioner of the Land and Environment Court on April 3rd.

The gathering saw a substantial turnout from the community, with groups such as Tweed Team Koala and Tweed Valley Wildlife Carers voicing their opposition to the development. Even Pottsville’s renowned koala resident, Odin, made an appearance.

Josie, a resident of Pottsville, addressed the crowd, expressing concerns about the proposed caravan park, which includes plans for 112 long-term residential sites. She emphasized the potential adverse impacts on traffc, fooding, visual aesthetics, Aboriginal Cultural Heritage, and, most critically, the endangered koala population.

Independent Tweed Shire Deputy Mayor Meredith Dennis OAM echoed the sentiment of strong opposition, affrming that the development should not proceed under any circumstances. She emphasized the clear stance of both the community and the Council against the project, stressing the importance of protecting the koala corridor.

Nude and Non-Nude Stakeholders Engage in Discussion over Tyagarah Beach’s Future

The recent discussions surrounding Tyagarah Beach’s future have brought to light a complex array of concerns and perspectives from both nude and non-nude stakeholders. The decision to maintain the clothing-optional status until June 30 provides a temporary reprieve, but it’s clear that deeper issues regarding the beach’s management and cultural signifcance remain unresolved.

The NPWS’s decision to discontinue Tyagarah as a nudist beach refects a divergence from its previous approach and underscores the tensions between departmental policies and community values. This move has sparked a broader conversation about the role of public spaces, safety, and cultural preservation.

The stakeholder meeting, which included representation from naturists, concerned locals, and the Council, highlights a collaborative effort to address the challenges facing Tyagarah Beach. The range of options proposed demonstrates a commitment to fnding a solution that balances the needs of different stakeholders while ensuring the beach remains a safe and inclusive space.

Moving forward, it’s essential for NPWS to consider the feedback received and provide a transparent and inclusive process for decision-making. By engaging with the community and Byron Shire Council, NPWS can work towards a sustainable resolution that respects the diverse perspectives and values associated with Tyagarah Beach.