RACV in ‘talks’ on conditions

Erin Pearson
RACV has called on Surf Coast councillors to review “unrealistic conditions” on plans to tap into drains for watering Torquay’s golf course.
RACV executive general manager Sue Blake said the motoring giant wanted to start work on the redevelopment as soon as possible but must first “resolve” conditions “not necessarily related to the water harvest proposal”.
“RACV has commenced discussions with council officers about these conditions and is hopeful of resolving these matters quickly and amicably so the water harvesting licence can be finalised,” she said.
Councillors voted last month to provide in-principle support for the RACV to harvest stormwater if it could satisfy 50 conditions.
The conditions included further rounds of consultations with various community groups and discussing “facility-sharing arrangements” with other Torquay sport clubs.
Ms Blake said a number of the conditions would be “finalised in forthcoming negotiations with council”.
“RACV is pleased that the Surf Coast council has recognised the environmental benefits of the water harvesting proposal and supports the use of this recycled water to sustain the course.”
Councillors rejected the RACV’s first stormwater bid in April, citing environmental concerns over Jan Juc Creek, despite numerous reports backing the project.
RACV’s proposed $90 million redevelopment of Torquay Golf Club includes an upgraded golf course, new dams and irrigation systems and planting of 130,000 indigenous trees, shrubs and ground covers. A new resort building will include accommodation, dining and leisure facilities along with change rooms, a lounge, a spike bar and a pro shop.