Katos promises: Bells plan will be reviewed

ERIN PEARSON
SOUTH Barwon MP Andrew Katos will take community concern over Bells Beach to state government next month following a meeting with surfing bodies, environmental groups and Surf Coast Shire last week.
Mr Katos said many were upset with parts of the Bells Beach Master Plan and wanted changes to coach admissions and reserve upgrades.
In March the Independent reported Bells Beach Preservation Society feared the plan, released last year, would turn the site into a “theme park” with surfing statues and more tourist coaches.
“There has been some friction in the past but I made it very clear we met to find a solution for Bells Beach,” Mr Katos said.
“We’ve got to make sure some tourism is permitted but also a balance with every day users.
“We don’t want to create pressures or animosity in the water.”
Mr Katos said he expected the Bells Beach Master Plan could be altered.
“I’ve certainly made it clear we are a new government and prepared to consider points the previous government were not,” he said.
“If the Master Plan was created given a certain set of parameters, then we’re prepared to look at different things.
“That’s where this is headed.”
The shire released a final draft of the Bells Beach Master Plan in September.
In March an Independent investigation found deadly asbestos strewn across the beach, threatening to close the reserve weeks before the Rip Curl Pro.
Former advisory committee members also reported concerns about drainage and car parking.
Bells Beach Preservation Society member Maurice Cole said the meeting with Mr Katos and Surf Coast stakeholders allowed all groups to voice views of concern and support for parts of the reserve’s Master Plan.
“All the community groups involved with Bells Beach have put in hundreds of hours of work, emails, phone calls and meetings to make sure we represent the whole community and have a positive vision on all the issues,” he said.
“It was very refreshing to be heard at the meeting as everyone was listened to.”