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 $10 entry fee for Killalea State Park proposed 

$10 entry fee for Killalea State Park proposed

28 Jun, 2011 04:00 AM
The days of free entry to Killalea State Park appear to be numbered after revelations visitors could be hit with a $10 entry fee from as early as August.

Even surfers at famous Illawarra break The Farm would have to pay for access to the beach.

The proposed $8-10 entry fee is one of three major changes included in a business plan the Killalea State Park Trust will present to the State Government next month.

Other changes include six tourist cabins envisaged near the existing camping ground and a new southern entrance to the popular tourist and surfing destination.

The proposed gate fee would match charges at other developed state parks, which range from $7 to $10, according to trust president Ed Gilmore.

Regular park users could save money with an "attractive" annual pass in the order of $80.

"We really aim to make the park viable," he said.

"We are losing money at the moment and we need to increase the cash flow to break even.

"We think the combination of a gate entry fee and the establishment of some additional cabins will achieve this."

But park users say an entry fee - especially one as high as $10 - would make it too expensive for some people.

Killalea National Surfing Reserve Committee chair Chris Homer believes surfers at The Farm will oppose the changes.

"Obviously for surfers it would be good if we got the gate fee waived for us, but I just think it should be free regardless of what sector of the community - whether it's surfers, fishermen or recreational users," he said.

"These places are there for the wider community to enjoy and regenerate and relax, and I just don't think it would be good for the wider community and those on a lower socio-economic scale to be slugged with another fee."

Save Killalea Alliance secretary Mairi Petersen said fewer people would visit the park if the gate fee went ahead.

"There are few enough areas where people, particularly with young families, can go and have a very nice day without having to pay," she said.

"Putting a fee on Killalea would make it almost impossible."

Killalea State Park receives about $240,000 from the State Government each year.

The Crown Lands division of the Department of Primary Industries had been briefed on the proposed entry fee, a department spokesman confirmed, and cabins and options were being explored for a second access point.

"Crown Lands has requested a formal business plan to be developed by the Trust for Crown Lands and the minister's review," he said.

Mr Gilmore anticipated some regular users would welcome the entry fee, which he said could help preserve the park and reduce vandalism.

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Date: Newest first | Oldest first
Absolutely disgracefull how dare they this is a public park three generations of my family have been surfing and enjoying picnics there, there is no way we will pay. the trust need to pull their head in its like charging people to view the harbour bridge killalea s not an amusement park where you can charge people killalea is for all people not just for the few who can afford it shame on you
Posted by Simon, 28/06/2011 6:14:14 AM, on Illawarra Mercury
By proposing such a high fee the Trust is showing how out of touch with the community they are. This much loved park is a beach for the local community, Where else do we have to pay to use the beach?

By putting on a fee and opening up another entrance the Trust is increasing their costs by a significant amount due to the necessity of having both gates manned for 12 to 14 hours per day, 7 days per week.

This seems to be an ambit claim. When the Trust fails to raise the money they want they will claim they need a resort style development like the previous failed proposal.

Spill the Trust now

Posted by peter moran, 28/06/2011 7:04:09 AM, on Illawarra Mercury
This fee wouldn't have happened if you'd let them build the Cabins as originally planned.

Hahahaha - bye bye Mal boys!!!!

The Greenies tricked you again.

Posted by Big Al, 28/06/2011 7:05:16 AM, on Illawarra Mercury
I am disgusted with the prospect of a $10 fee. Access to the beach should be free to all. I am a surfer, am I expected to pay to surf for an hr in the morning. That could add up to $70 a week? I am not a local, but when the conditions are right at the Farm, it is great wave and pretty consistent, and like other surfers will travel from anywhere to get a good wave. This and fisherman are in the same boat. I sure hope there is an uproar. This shows what a stuff up it was to create the state park, allow residential subdivision to occur nearby without the maintaining free public access! Discgrace
Posted by john doe, 28/06/2011 7:32:31 AM, on Illawarra Mercury
Prior to the election Gareth Ward stated, at a public meeting, that he was opposed to a gate fee and opposed to any commercial development in the park.

What does Gareth say now?

Posted by peter moran, 28/06/2011 7:41:42 AM, on Illawarra Mercury
Is this ten dollars per head or per vehicle ?
Posted by Edward James, 28/06/2011 8:04:34 AM, on Illawarra Mercury
ummm, Dont think anyone will be going there anymore. $10 entry... what a joke.

Who would welcome the fee?

I would like to know where the $240000 government funding goes. We are never told!

Posted by Stupidity, 28/06/2011 8:11:47 AM, on Illawarra Mercury
This is just the beginning of the end fon locals, the next will be the construction of beach villas and caravan parks for the rich!
Posted by DickyT, 28/06/2011 8:45:56 AM, on Illawarra Mercury
People will understand that the park requires financial support, but to go from charging nothing to $10 a visit is unfathomable.

Lower the fee substantially!

Posted by Chris, 28/06/2011 8:49:25 AM, on Illawarra Mercury
I visit Killalea on a weekly basis and i would welcome an entry fee because it is a privilege to have such a beautiful area in our community and let's ensure it stays that way - an entry fee is the only logical proposal!
Posted by Dave, 28/06/2011 8:57:56 AM, on Illawarra Mercury
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Surfer Chris Homer will have to pay to visit The Farm if a planned gate fee at Killalea State Park is approved. Picture: DAVE TEASE
Surfer Chris Homer will have to pay to visit The Farm if a planned gate fee at Killalea State Park is approved. Picture: DAVE TEASE
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