Concerns raised over the management of the Dirawong Reserve at Evans Head have been addressed by Crown Lands who say they have the structures in place to ensure the effective running of the Reserve until a new board is appointed in November.
Former board members have raised concerns over the inaccessibility and response of Crown Lands in their management of the Reserve since Crown Lands choice not to appoint a new board in August when the five-year term of the previous board ended.
Former board member Dr Richard Gates told The Echo yesterday that there were a range of issues at the Reserve including breaches of by-laws such as dogs on site, overnight camping, and maintenance of the digestion tanks of the independent toilets haven’t been managed, and graffiti.
Responding to the issues raised a spokesperson for Crown Lands in the Department of Planning and Environment told The Echo that ‘Maintenance of the reserve is being conducted promptly and professionally with the assistance of local contractors.’
‘Any maintenance or issues relating to the reserve can be reported on email: [email protected] or by phoning 1300 886 235 for prompt assessment and appropriate action.’
They clarified that the explicit graffiti on the toilets was promptly cleared telling The Echo that ‘Graffiti on the reserve toilet was notified to Crown Lands on Friday morning (29/10) and the Council was engaged and had it removed Friday afternoon.’
‘Richmond Valley Council is contracted to manage rubbish collection and regulatory matters at the reserve, and other contractors are employed to clean the toilets and conduct trail maintenance. A blocked septic tank at the reserve has been cleared.’
Drones
Another concern raised was how drones were used at the site and safety in relation to the adjacent Evans Head Air Weapons Range when it is active.
The spokesperson for Crown Lands in the Department of Planning and Environment said that ‘Regarding drones, it is the responsibility of drone operators to operate in accordance with Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) requirements including avoiding no-fly zone areas.’
New board
The expressions of interest in becoming a member of the board closed for a second time on August 31 and Crown Lands have said that ‘Dirawong Reserve will remain under the management administration of Crown Lands’ North Coast office pending the appointment of a new board in November.’
