Driver respect is what needs adjusting.

As for running into cars pulled up for the cow crossing, the law states you should not drive at a speed greater than one that will enable you to stop within the distance you can see.

Media reports suggesting the Bega Valley Shire Council (BVSC) is reconsidering the possibility of assuming direct management control over Merimbula Airport as the licensed operator have given rise to cautious optimism on the future of the airport for the first time in years.

Indeed, in its submission to BVSC addressing the issue of the preferred management model for the airport, made some two years ago, the Bega Valley Shire Residents and Ratepayers Association (BVSRRA) recommended the council pursue direct management.

While the BVSRRA welcomes the reported change of heart by council, it does not believe the council needs to, or should, enter into a two year “interim” arrangement with Airport Agencies, in particular given the current manager showed no interest in continuing its previous involvement with the airport by participating in the tender process.

Nevertheless, while not ruling-out an interim arrangement involving current Airport Agencies’ personnel, the BVSRRA believes it is open to council to pursue the direct management of Merimbula Airport more quickly than it appears to be contemplating, by pursuing the appointment of an advisory board or committee of council to guide the formulation of the necessary strategy to successfully transition to a direct management arrangement.

This representative body could include locally available experts, airport and community stakeholders and representatives of council, thereby honouring council’s commitment to engage with the community on important issues.

The BVSRRA looks forward to further details of council’s plans in respect of this crucial issue being confirmed.

The most recent Eurobodalla holiday guide is a beautifully illustrated booklet designed by council staff to promote tourism in our region. Its guidelines for “a quintessential family holiday” include surfing, cycling, bushwalking, fishing and boating in a glorious seaside/bushland environment.

Only a passing reference to HuntFest, the American style celebration of guns and of killing animals, held every June weekend on Crown land in the heart of Narooma.

An unsurprising  omission since such an event  is totally at odds with the life-affirming ethos of the shire and the welfare of its citizens.

 While this event may suit the powerful hunters lobby from outside the shire, it has never been approved of by the  majority of  residents.

One of the councillors expressed the opinion that a festival of hunting  rated  no  more discussion or debate than a “teddy bear’s picnic”. Furthermore a majority of councillors now believe it’s appropriate for the South Coast Hunters Club and its sponsor, SSAA, to be given a further five year extension on their licence.

Once again, as in 2012, no widespread information, survey of opinion, cost-benefit analysis , or trial period, and no obligation for council to abide by the wishes of the electorate.

A democratic council would   be considering ways to revoke the licence for this controversial  and dangerous  event rather than to extend it without community consultation and approval.