Council issued a press release on December 20 accusing the group of unauthorised clearing.

The NTBRA responded on January 1 saying that councillors and the mayor knew what they were doing and accused council of trying to intimidate the group.

Within hours of it appearing on the News Weekly website on January 2, council then fired back with a further press release which is reproduced below.

Bega Valley Shire Council rejects accusations of intimidation made by a spokesperson for the North Tura Beach Residents Association (NTBRA) in an article published online by the Merimbula News Weekly.

The article follows a press release issued by Council on 20 December in regards to unauthorised clearing work carried out by the community group in the Tura Head Coastal Reserve.

Once Council officers responsible for the management of this site became aware of a planned NTBRA working bee, the group was informed that council did not authorise the working bee and they weren’t to undertake any work until an appropriate site plan was developed.

The group proceeded with the planned working bee on 17 December, contrary to this very clear direction from Council officers.

Council’s General Manager, Leanne Barnes, said in its role as a land manager Council remains fully committed to ensuring that all work carried out on Council managed land is in accordance with agreed plans and strategies, with approval for works to be the sole responsibility of the relevant officers.

“While we value the enormous contribution volunteer groups make right across the Shire, we simply can’t have people doing whatever they want on public owned and managed land,” Ms Barnes said.

“Processes and legislative frameworks are there to protect everyone and it is essential that they are respected and followed.

“From Council’s perspective it is imperative that any work on our managed land is only done following the induction of workers or volunteers. We want to ensure the safety of everyone involved. 

“Council is developing a site management plan for the Tura Head Coastal Reserve and this is expected to be completed later this month.

“We are fully committed to ensuring the best possible outcome is achieved and in order to do that honesty and flexibility are required from all involved.

“We look forward to a positive outcome and resolution to this issue,” Ms Barnes said.