Guidelines over the recent ban on releasing helium balloons in Bega Valley and Eurobodalla are being developed.
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The local ‘no balloon releases’ policy supersedes a state government ruling limiting the release of balloons to 20.
“We wanted to go beyond that – the fact is that one balloon released is one too many, the rules in both shires now reflect that,” Bega Valley Mayor Kristy McBain said.
Fines for ignoring the new policy will range from between $80 and $750.
“There are some terrific alternatives to using balloons that still add colour and atmosphere to your event, including bubbles, flags and pinwheels, bunting, paper pom poms and lanterns,” Eurobodalla Mayor Liz Innes said.
Bega Valley and Eurobodalla Shire Council’s will continue to work with the community as the changes are implemented.
Cr Kristy McBain said the ban will have greater impact now that both councils had taken the same action and would be encouraging others to follow the example.
“The impact of litter on our marine environment is well known with 663 species affected worldwide, creatures we know and love end up tangled in this mess or ingesting it, dying of starvation, suffocation and strangulation,” Cr McBain said.
The necessary guidelines are being developed at the moment so that the new requirements are clear to people and organisations keen to use council reserves for their events.