Aseaside council has heard a definite opinion from its youngest residents on a “hot” local topic.

Robe District Mayor Alison Nunan has discussed the uncertain fate of the Robe obelisk at Cape Dombey with local students.

Mayor Nunan said she had recently hosted two classes from the Robe Primary School in the meeting chamber to chat about the role of council and councillors.

“They had plenty of questions and were a delight to spend time with,” Mayor Nunan said.

“We discussed coastal erosion and the future of the obelisk, amongst other things.

“I asked both classes what would they like to see happen after the obelisk falls into the sea.

“It was unanimous – rebuild it.”

Around five years ago, elected members and senior staff looked at suitable sites for a full-size replica of the Robe obelisk to be erected when the current structure collapses.

A staff report stated a Robe firm had the capability to construct a concrete replica with the distinctive red and white bands.

No further action was taken.

The Robe obelisk was erected over 160 years ago as a guide to seafarers but extensive cliff-top erosion means it is at risk of falling into the sea.

Its colours and logo have been adopted by the local council, sporting clubs and school.

The council has commissioned various engineering and technical reports which have pointed out that any attempt to re-paint and repair it would be too dangerous.

Measures to stop the cliff-top erosion are not considered feasible.

Immediate public access to the stone structure has been stopped and there is a 150m walk from a public car park.

In June this year, a large blowhole appeared elsewhere on the limestone cliffs at Robe.