In the quaint coastal town of Sandy Point, Victoria, a battle is raging between the community and a developer over the fate of a beloved caravan park. This dispute, which has been simmering for years, has now reached a boiling point, with the community's beloved park facing the prospect of closure. But what makes this story so compelling is not just the conflict between the locals and the developer, but the deeper questions it raises about the future of small towns, the role of community, and the impact of development on cherished spaces.
The caravan park, a fixture in Sandy Point for over six decades, has been more than just a place for holidaymakers; it's been a lifeline for the community. As Peter Sliferski, a member of the Sandy Point Community Group, aptly puts it, "The loss of the caravan park... affects everyone, including our businesses, the surf club, our tourism industry. There's no replacement for it."
In my opinion, this statement encapsulates the heart of the issue. The caravan park is not just a business; it's an integral part of the town's fabric, providing affordable accommodation for those who can't afford holiday houses or Airbnb rentals. It's a place where memories are made, where families return year after year, and where the local economy thrives. The loss of such a place would be a blow to the community's identity and spirit.
The developer, Prom Coast Developments Pty Ltd, has proposed subdividing the lot into 11 new dwellings. While this may seem like a straightforward development, the community is concerned about the potential impact on the town. As Daniel Gunton, a Sandy Point local, points out, "It's just a shame the average person can't bring their kids here for a holiday." This statement highlights the broader implications of the development, not just for the caravan park but for the town as a whole.
The ongoing dispute between the site's owners and the community over plans to upgrade the site is a testament to the deep-rooted attachment the locals have to their beloved park. The previous application to upgrade the site to 14 developments in 2021 was met with resistance from the community, who were concerned about increased traffic and pressure on the local environment. The council received 51 submissions against the proposal, and the community's concerns were ultimately upheld by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).
However, the current development proposal has been approved by the South Gippsland Shire Council, despite receiving 29 objections. This decision has sparked further controversy, with the community group threatening to lodge an objection in the VCAT. The council's CEO, Allison Jones, has stated that the decision was confined to the planning merits of the proposed land use and the relevant planning rules of the area.
One of the key concerns raised by the community is the risk of coastal inundation, as shown by recent hazard mapping completed by the West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority. Councillor Sarah Gilligan, who moved to put a separate motion to defeat the proposal, argued that the proposal did not balance the development of Sandy Point against the impacts on existing vegetation, water quality, and the risks of climate change. In my view, this concern highlights the broader implications of the development, not just for the caravan park but for the town's resilience and sustainability.
The decision to approve the development has been met with mixed reactions. While some councillors were torn on the issue, Mayor Nathan Hersey used his deciding vote to pass the motion, citing the conditions attached to the development. However, the community remains steadfast in its opposition, arguing that the development would have a detrimental impact on the town's character and economy. As Joel Mitchell, another resident, warns, "More Airbnbs, it's just going to fuel an absolute disaster."
In my opinion, this dispute raises a deeper question about the future of small towns and the role of community in shaping their destiny. The caravan park is more than just a business; it's a symbol of the town's identity and spirit. The developer's proposal, while potentially lucrative, threatens to erode the very essence of Sandy Point. As the community fights to protect their beloved park, they are also fighting to preserve the town's unique character and way of life.
In conclusion, the battle over the Sandy Point caravan park is a microcosm of the broader struggle between development and community. It raises important questions about the future of small towns, the role of community, and the impact of development on cherished spaces. As the community continues to fight for their beloved park, they are also fighting for the soul of Sandy Point. The outcome of this dispute will have far-reaching implications for the town and its residents, and it remains to be seen whether the community's voice will be heard and their beloved park will be saved.
