In late July Eurobodalla Shire Council formed a steering committee to pursue the establishment of an equestrian centre following an offer by Treasurer Andrew Constance to provide funding to a council that could develop a sound business proposal. 

Bega Valley Shire councillor Russell Fitzpatrick, keen to get a committee established, tried to insert a proposal to do so in a recommendation about the Sapphire Coast Turf Club on July 30. 

After this was rejected he left the proposal as a question on notice to acting general manager Wayne Sartori. 

In the agenda notes for tomorrow’s council meeting Mr Sartori has rejected the proposal, stating, “it is difficult to instigate without first having a clear equestrian community based initiative”.  

“I am not aware of any industry, or substantive community based, needs analysis, demand assessment or local aspiration presented to Council for an equestrian facility. 

"That is not to say such a facility would not be welcomed by the industry or that it would not bring social and economic benefits to the Bega Valley, just that there has not been any community based or industry based initiatives for a local equestrian centre.

“Without a clear community base or agreed collective view it will be difficult if not premature of council to form a committee.

“Such a committee would run the risk of not having the broad based support of the equestrian community

“It should be noted there would be significant resources, cost and time needed for investigation and analysis required to formulate a comprehensive, feasible proposal.”

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