Media Release

Camping it up at Berrima.

Unfortunately the closure and excessive regulation of the use of the Berrima reserve is making our New Year less than pleasant.

After hearing increasing concerns and claims of excessive regulation from residents of Berrima about Councils decision to close the Berrima Reserve to Campers, Clr Larry Whipper has responded by giving an undertaking to raise the matter at the first meeting in January 2008.

“It looks like we got this one wrong” Clr Whipper said. When this matter came to Council, there were minimal representations from the community. The only representations were in the form of support for the closure”. He said.

“Given the mounting support for the continuation of camping at the reserve, I feel we need to revisit this as a matter of urgency. In hindsight we should have communicated with bodies like the Berrima Residents Association and Berrima Business Houses before making our decision. I am particularly concerned that sop keepers are saying that our decision is beginning to have financial implications upon a number of business houses in the Village”.

Many locals also believe that signs and fences erected by Council are causing not only embarrassment but also offense. According to Mr. Rob Parker, who is a long time resident of Berrima, a young mother who has been using the camping area along wit her family for years was most upset after her family were harassed for camping in the reserve over night. There have also been reports of fences and logs restricting access to the reserve for local resident walkers.

“ If such claims are true, then we need to redress this matter as quickly as possible. It is not in any ones interest for Council to be seen in this light. It just doesn’t make sense to alienate, or offend people in this manner. The Wingecarribee Shire prides itself on the promotion of quality Tourist experiences. In this instance it appears we are failing.” Clr Whipper said.

Although there have been some abuses of camping privileges at the reserve, I truly believe with the support of the Berrima community and the Department of Lands, we can put some measures in place that will protect the natural environment and serve the best interests of all involved while still providing access to the reserve, so that Berrima and those who appreciate the beauty of the reserve can continue to do so.