The current propaganda states that Council intends to allow the Fast Ferry proponents to locate two 50,000 litre underground fuel tanks on the Ettalong foreshore.

In fact, Council has expressed deep concern over the refuelling issue and resolved that the applicant present options for refuelling including all environmental and safety aspects.

Council also agreed with my suggestion that an eminent independent expert be engaged to advice Council on the refuelling options.

Council voted unanimously in support of the Ettalong Ferry but indicated that it will not allow the environmental degradation of the Ettalong foreshore.

Council has informed the Fast Ferry applicant that it must review all its proposals and find more acceptable solutions to matters such as parking, traffic, refuelling and environmental concerns.

Council also agreed that a committee of councillors, local community, Ettalong Ratepayers Association reps and Fastships be established to give the community input into the process.

As chair of this committee, I believe this is an excellent forum for discussion on the main issues relative to the coming of a Fast Ferry to Ettalong.

The recommendations from this committee will be put before Council as part of the public consultation process and I would be surprised if councillors chose to ignore community concerns.

What’s annoying is that the people spreading lies and innuendo believe that they are the only ones interested in the environment and the future of Ettalong.

I have lived on the Peninsula for nearly 30 years and I have worked hard for the betterment of the local community.

I strongly support the Fast Ferry as I believe it will bring much-needed jobs, particularly for our young people, in tourism and IT, which are the growth areas of the future.

I do not intend to let the Ettalong foreshore be destroyed in order to achieve these aims.