Ban call on ‘Bells bus safety threat’

ERIN PEARSON
TOURISM buses have become a safety threat in Bells Beach Surfing Reserve, according to a community group.
Bells Beach Preservation Society called for an immediate ban on buses in the reserve.
Society member Andrew Dickenson said a meeting including State Government and Surf Coast Shire representatives last week heard advice that an accident was only a “matter of time”.
“They can no longer look away and hope everything will be all right in the end,” he said.
South Barwon MP Andrew Katos said the Government and the shire were investigating moving buses out of the reserve. He was aware of the safety concerns but opposed an immediate buses ban.
“Surf Coast Shire manages the reserve so I can’t make decisions for them.
“Everyday user groups have their views on traffic at Bells Beach but state policy for tourism has to be considered also.”