Negotiations over the future of Helensburgh's historic Porcupine Track, which links The Ridge residential area with the railway station, are reaching a critical stage and may soon be resolved, following years of local resident action for the heritage track to be restored and maintained.
Alan House, President of the Helensburgh and District Landcare group, which works under the auspices of Wollongong Council confirmed that discussions between Railcorp (which owns the land) and the NSW Department of Lands could soon see a formal announcement involving the land title being transferred to the NSW Department of Lands.
However, he believes any agreement for the track's on-going care by the local Landcare group could only come about if the track was first 'made good'.
“As much as we are keen to take on the maintenance of the Porcupine Track, Landcare would be very reluctant to take on this responsibility unless it is first properly restored by either State Rail or the NSW Department of Lands,” said Alan.
“Erosion from heavy rain and trailbikes has made the track virtually unusable and unsafe to navigate, except by the most hardy of walkers.
“There needs to be significant work done to terrace the steps, which should be baffled into the bush, so it can deal with the water velocity of that area.
“Our small community group of thirty volunteers couldn't possibly afford the rectification works, which we estimate would cost between fifty to a hundred thousand dollars if it is to be done to a reasonable and long-term standard, where it can then be maintained.
“The government has spent millions upgrading the station and carpark but nothing on the Porcupine Track which forms the main access for residents to get to the new station without using a car or the bus.”
Currently situation on 2.5 acres of land between Gully and Tunnel Roads, the track is a former access trail that led to stockyards attached to the original station. When the old station site was closed, the track became a pedestrian and cycle access track from The Ridge area.
Beer and Wine Fair leaps into its 3rd year
Locals who enjoy a 'tipple with a difference' can look forward to the upcoming Helensburgh Beer and Wine Fair. The event features Australian wines and beers as well as imported beers to taste and purchase and has been so successful in the past couple of years that it is taking place for its third year.
“The festival is becoming a recognised event in the community because locals and visitors appreciate the opportunity to try new wines that they wouldn't normally get a chance to taste,” said organiser Peter Doak from Centennial Heritage Cellars in Helensburgh.
“Australians are no longer just sticking with their traditional drinks but are becoming more adventurous as they realise what fantastic beverages are available to them these days.
“The Fair is a way of introducing people to new tastes and a range of interesting and diverse beer and wine, that organisers have personally selected.”
Foodies can also partake of the scrumptious delights that will be available from the Red Kitchen and live music will add to the ambiance of the event. And while adults do the 'taste test' a jumping castle will be available to help keep the kids entertained.
With summer BBQs just around the corner its also an excellent chance to take advantage of the wines on offer, with all wines available at reduced prices. Its also a great chance to stock up for Christmas and the entertainment season.
The Beer and Wine Fair will take place on the Sunday 18th November between 12 noon and 5pm at the Soccer Clubhouse near the sports fields. A very reasonable $10 entry fee also includes a badged wine glass and tasting notes.
Bushfire season hotting up
Rural Fire Brigades in the Illawarra and South Coast will receive more than $13 million in funding this year as volunteer firefighters prepare for the summer bushfire season.
NSW Emergency Services Minister, Nathan Rees said the Illawarra and South Coast brigades would receive $13.1 million to help “ensure the safety of volunteer firefighters as they work to protect the community over summer.”
“This $13.1 million will be used for essential fire fighting needs, such as tankers and other equipment, personal protective gear, training and support to ensure Illawarra and South Coast brigades are well prepared for their vital work.
“I would like to thank the region’s RFS brigades for their hard work and commitment to protecting their communities from bushfires and other emergencies.”
The local State MP Paul McLeay has welcomed the injection of funds and has warned the Helensburgh and the surrounding community of the looming hot summer for residents, businesses and visitors.
“There is the potential for serious fires over the next few months despite recent rain in some areas,” Mr McLeay said.
“RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons has told me that while we are in a better position than at this time in previous years, due to the rain, the outlook over the next few months is for increasing warmer and drier conditions,” Mr McLeay said.
“Residents and landowners around the State should not make the mistake of being complacent, as there is a chance that significant fires will threaten their property.”
“I urge all residents to take simple precautions to prepare their homes and properties for the bushfire season.
“Residents should clear gutters, cut back overgrown shrubs and trees, remove flammable materials near buildings and check hoses and pumps are in good working order,” Mr McLeay said.