Concerns over the management of Dirawong Reserve since the decision by Crown Lands to delay the appointment of a new board of management have been raised by former board member Dr Richard Gates.
Dr Gates has pointed to a range of issues that have impacted the Dirawong Reserve since the previous board term came to an end on 8 August 2023. These included management of the toilets, graffiti, impact of fires on the reserve and its endangered species and the fact that a new board had not been appointed by November 2023 as Crown Lands had previously stated.
‘There has been the overflowing of effluent from the toilets into the Reserve which would never have happened had there been management on site, not to speak of the maggots which infested the system because of lack of maintenance,’ said Dr Gates.
‘The previous board conscientiously monitored and maintained the toilet system so that such events did not occur.’
Responding to the concerns raised a spokesperson from Crown Lands (CL) told The Echo that, ‘The reserve toilets are cleaned several times a week by a contractor who advises the Administrator directly if any issues arise so they can be attended to. Graffiti was promptly removed from the toilet. Members of the community can also report any issues relating to the reserve on email [email protected] or by phoning 1300 886 235 for prompt assessment and appropriate action.’
New board coming
Concerns over a lack of board to manage the reserve and maintain toilets, manage the impact of tourists and dogs on the beaches were addressed by CL whose spokesperson said that, ‘Crown Lands will soon appoint a new Board to manage the Dirawong Reserve near Evans Head. The current Administrator will remain in place until then.
‘The new Board will have public and private sector experience, be culturally diverse, and bring local knowledge to their role as Crown land managers.
‘The Board will be attuned to local cultural sensitivities and have a passion for the upkeep of the reserve and coastline on behalf of the community. We respect the Bundjalung Nation’s spiritual connection to Dirawong Reserve, which has particular significance to the Aboriginal community and is subject to a Native Title determination.
‘Crown Lands hopes to see increased recreational and cultural events on the reserve, which plays an important role in the Evans Head community.
Bushfire
However, when the issue of the impact of fires at the reserve were raised, especially the impact of the management of the fires, including bulldozing, on the endangered pygmy perch Nannoperca oxleyana the spokesperson for CL stated that ‘enquiries relating to the bushfire should be directed to the NSW Rural Fire Service and National Parks and Wildlife Service.’
