In a spirited meeting held yesterday at the Buckley’s Crossing Hotel, the Dalgety Chamber of Commerce (DCC) endorsed an ambitious project aimed at enhancing the safety and recreational accessibility of the Snowy River. The chamber welcomed a significant turnout, with over 20 attendees, including local Councillors Reuben Rose and Nick Elliot, who provided valuable input and support.
PHOTO: Rob Gant-Thompson provides a presentation for the community CREDIT: Lloyd May
The focal point of the evening was a presentation by Rob Gant-Thompson, who outlined a long-term vision for modifying the Snowy River weir to facilitate river surfing, alongside riverbank improvements and the development of recreational facilities. Gant-Thompson envisaged transforming the weir into a viable recreational venue, stating, “What I’m proposing… is to modify the shape to improve the main channel slope site near the fish traps and rocks. This will create a usable recreational facility for anyone that wants to use the different water levels.”
Despite support for the initiative, the project does face several challenges. A primary issue discussed was the unclear ownership of the weir, which potentially complicates efforts to reshape it. Councillor Rose said, “I’d suggest first to get it in front of a decision maker, it needs to be seen whether the project would even be possible.”
PHOTO: Safety issues were raised by Mr Gant-Thompson regarding the vertical weir design.
The spirit of cooperation was a notable highlight of the meeting. Lloyd May, Treasurer of the DCC and owner of the Dalgety Caravan Park, stressed the importance of community collaboration: “We want to create a community, it’s the cooperation of people who truly care about Dalgety, that will see us achieve that.” His sentiments were shared by many, underscoring the crucial role of community involvement in realising these plans.
Some attendees however, felt the vision didn’t address immediate community needs. Tegan Young, owner of Red Dog Roasters, voiced concerns over prioritising the project: “I’m not against the vision, I’m just concerned… I see many other things our community desperately needs before we need this.” Ms Young highlighted the importance of considering initiatives that benefit the wider community, like a bank, or a shared walkway along the river, in addition to promoting Dalgety’s heritage and history of fishing.
Mr Gant-Thompson in recognition of the fact the long term vision might take some time, highlighted a number of things that can be done to improve things now while still working towards the longer term goals.
“There are things we can do along the way which contribute to the longer term vision, like the walk-way, improved erosion control on the banks, easier access to the river, improved safety and better environmental conditions for the river ecosystem.”
PHOTO: Rob Gant-Thompson CREDIT: Gant-Thompson
The DCC affirmed its commitment to liaise with the council and prioritise projects effectively, considering both short-term needs and long-term visions. As discussions continue, the chamber’s focus will be on lobbying for support and integrating community input to ensure successful planning, and potential grant funding.