Limestone Coast residents are being encouraged to give feedback about the importance of local jetties through a newly launched survey that will help advocate for much-needed additional state and federal funding.
The Local Government Association of SA is undertaking a study of the value of South Australia’s jetties, including those in the Limestone Coast, to identify how they contribute to the state’s economic prosperity, historical significance and wellbeing of local communities.
This assessment will focus on the activities that are supported by jetties, such as tourism, walking, recreational fishing and swimming, and will highlight how crucial it is for state and federal governments to support councils in maintaining these vital assets.
As part of this project, the SA Jetties Community Survey gives local community members, visitors and stakeholders the chance to share their views and opinions on the social and heritage value of jetties, which will influence the final valuation.
LGA President Mayor Dean Johnson implored all South Australians to participate in the survey and lend their voices to protect jetties in their own backyard.
“If you care deeply about the future of our state’s jetties, please jump online, fill out the survey and share it with your friends and family – the more people we get involved, the better,” Mayor Johnson said.
“The profoundly positive impact jetties have on local communities cannot be overstated.
“Jetties are vitally important for social wellbeing; they’re a drawcard for visitation and tourism, boosting local economies and in many cases they’re historically significant.
“Even for people who do not live close to jetties, there is an overwhelming sense and understanding of the enormous worth these structures provide along our coastlines.
“Already, we have seen some jetties across South Australia close while awaiting repairs, and when this happens it’s communities and visitors who miss out.
“Local councils are doing the best they can with the funding they have to maintain jetties in their regions, however larger works require external financial support.
“The LGA’s Value of Jetties Analysis and survey aims to put a more exact dollar figure on the value jetties deliver for South Australia, which will hopefully spur greater state and federal spending to repair and retain them.”
South Australia’s 75 jetties are owned by the State Government, with 36 of those leased to councils who manage them.
While $20m was committed in June’s State Budget for jetties over the next four years, greater funding is needed to support councils – particularly those in regional areas – with repairs and maintenance.
The LGA has engaged Hudson Howells to deliver the SA Jetties Community Survey, which will close on September 15.
Visit www.lga.sa.gov.au/jetties to take the survey and share why jetties are important to you.
