MP supports eco-tourism proposal at Sugars Beach

23 Jul 2020

Posted October 11, 2019

Federal Member for Mayo Rebekha Sharkie has backed a plan by the Alexandrina Council to “sensitively develop” a beach near the Murray Mouth into an eco-tourism site.

The local MP has written to the State Environment Minister David Speirs to show her support for the council’s plan to improve facilities at Sugars Beach on Hindmarsh Island with public toilets, a shelter and an environmental and Ngarrindjeri information hub part of the concept plan.

“Sugars Beach provides one of the few land-based locations where people can view the Murray Mouth without a boat or a four-wheel drive vehicle,” Rebekha said.

“Other than a carpark and a basic boat ramp, there are currently no amenities for visitors and yet this site is one of the best and most accessible sites to see this iconic setting.

“The Goolwa and Hindmarsh Island region is a gateway to the internationally recognised Coorong National Park, and Sugars Beach sits beside South Australia’s recently proclaimed Lawari Conservation Park.

“In the summer a food van sells locally caught fish and is a popular spot for visitors to enjoy the view, especially at sunset.

"This is a project that will require funding support from all levels of government so I will be advocating at both a State and Federal level for grant assistance."

The Alexandrina Council is still consulting with the Ngarrindjeri Regional Authority about the details of the final concept plan.

Once that consultation has been completed the plan will be released for public comment.

Besides a toilet and an information hub, the Council is also looking at including boardwalks, viewing platforms and interpretative displays in the project, along with shoreline protection features, improved parking and a jetty.

"Where the Government has consulted well with the local community and addressed any environmental concerns they may have, I believe accessible and sustainable eco-tourism has the support of the wider public," Rebekha said.

"The State Government's recent $6 million announcement for upgrades to the Heysen Trail and Deep Creek Conservation Park has broad community support and I believe Sugars Beach presents a similar opportunity."

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