THE Farm's iconic status as a surfing spot could be formalised nationally, adding weight to community opposition to a proposed Killalea State Park resort.
Well-known Illawarra surfer Chris Homer has nominated The Farm to be made into a legally protected surfing reserve. His request will be presented on Monday to the National Surfing Reserve Committee Australia by deputy chair Professor Andrew Short.
The University of Sydney geology professor and coastal studies unit director said he had visited every Australian beach, and The Farm stood out as an "iconic site" with its rare south-facing break.
Prof Short said if the committee gave the go-ahead, surfers would be asked to present a formal case to prove this status.
NSW Lands Minister Tony Kelly gazetted the state's first surf reserve at Angourie near Yamba in January under the Crown Lands Act. Maroubra in Sydney's south has also been dedicated, and next on the list are Lennox Head and Cronulla.
On April 30, Mr Kelly signed an agreement to lease three parcels of Killalea land for 52 years to Killalea Coastal Investments, a joint venture between Mariner Financial and Babcock & Brown.
It allows 202 residential lodges, swimming pools, tennis courts, restaurants and a conference centre.
Prof Short said being a surf reserve did not change any existing usage, but formally identified important surf sites and "assisted in long-term preservation ..."
"It would add weight to the local community's arguments opposing the development."
The Farm beach is a five-minute walk down a steep, uneven dirt track. Once on the sand the only sign of civilisation is a picnic table perched on the edge of the ridge.
Those behind the development maintain the sight lines will be preserved, so a surfer would have to be a few metres out at sea to see the resort. But the plans involve a new road to the beach, and a car park and amenities block.
"The developers just want to make it so Mums and Dads and everyone can get to the beach. But there's plenty of beaches they can go to," Prof Short said.
The surfer of more than 40 years said it was irresponsible to encourage families to visit The Farm as it was a "hazardous" swimming beach.
Mr Homer, a Southbridge rider, is opposed to the proposed development. He said reserve status would bring tourists to the area, but it would be better for the local economy if they stayed in Shellharbour rather than the proposed private resort.
Mr Kelly's spokesman said the Department of Lands worked in conjunction with the surf reserve committee to select suitable sites for protection. He said it was "stretching a very long bow" to suggest reserve status at Killalea could influence the proposed development.
Illawarra Mercury - 14 July 2007
Return to "Killalea Media Index" Page - A list of all media articles found relating to Killalea State Park with links to the articles.
Return to "Killalea State Park Protest" Page - General information on what has been happening over recent months.
Return to Killalea Index - Additional Killalea family information.