Five key estuaries in Bega Valley Shire will receive more than $141,000 in NSW Government funding as well as technical support thanks to their successful Coastal and Estuary Grants Program applications.
Minister for Local Government, Wendy Tuckerman MP said the 2 grants will enable Council to prepare coastal management programs (CMPs) for council's priority estuaries.
"Bega Valley Shire Council has been awarded $93,333 to develop the Wallaga Lake, Merimbula and Back Lakes, and Lake Curalo CMPs," Ms Tuckerman said.
"A second grant of $48,001 is to develop the Bermagui River estuary CMP. These CMPs will build on the extensive work already undertaken under previous grants and enable Council to identify hazards and risks, and develop management actions in consultation with the community." she said.
The NSW Government is committed to implementing the coastal management framework in partnership with local government and local communities.
Mayor of Bega Valley Shire Council Russell Fitzpatrick welcomed the funding and said he was looking forward to developing council's CMP.
"It's great to be able to partner with the State Government on Coastal Management, and we have some of the most beautiful beaches and estuaries in New South Wales. Targeting these estuaries will mean they are protected and maintained well into the future," Mr Fitzpatrick said.
"Completion of the CMP's will then allow us to start accessing grant funding for the delivery of the works we know are needed to protect and enhance our waterways and coastline into the future."
Councils can apply for funding at any time during the financial year to undertake planning and studies and funding provided at a 2:1 ratio, with $2 contributed from the state government for every $1 provided by the council.
