After having travelled all over Australia enjoying and documenting dozens and dozens of swimming holes, I can honestly say that Nethercote Falls is one of the best in this country. 

In announcing the planned closure, the Forestry Corporation quite rightly pointed out that there are other "bushwalking, horse riding and bike riding" opportunities in the area, however as a swimming enthusiast, this venue is unique. 

Safety is paramount, but surely there are other ways of managing risks than a blanket closure of the site. 

When I last visited there was limited signage and no safety barriers, and if the road is too popular for its narrow size, then why not widen it and seal it to make it safer? Closing the very steep access road to the lower car park looks like the only decision in this announcement that makes sense. 

The ACT government gazetted its favourite swimming holes in recognition of their social and cultural importance - maybe it's time for the Bega Valley Shire Council to do the same. I truly hope that the Forestry Corporation can find another way to showcase this nationally significant swimming hole.

Brad Neal

Author of Guide to Freshwater Swimming Holes in Australia

Melbourne