Researchers seeks community input on Willis Creek and Hearns Lake

A Southern Cross University student is seeking input from residents in the Northern Beaches about Willis Creek and Hearns Lake as part of a project aimed at enhancing ongoing management of the area.

Glen Ewers, who is completing a Bachelor of Applied Science Honours degree at the National Marine Science Centre, will be starting the survey of residents in Woolgoolga and Sandy Beach this week.

Mr Ewers said with the closure of the sewage outfall into Willis Creek at the start of the year and development proposals for land surrounding Hearns Lake it was important to gain an understanding of the social perceptions of the two areas.

"We need to understand community perceptions of this area. How much do people value the creeks and what do they want to see happen in those areas?," Mr Ewers said.

He said changes in the local estuarine ecology were predicted following the closure of the outfall at Willis Creek.

"As a result, the current zoning of Willis Creek and adjacent land may undergo changes allowing for increased urban/industrial development and recreational use of the area.

"This survey is designed to enhance understanding of the social perceptions and needs of surrounding communities before those changes take place."

Mr Ewers said community consultation was an integral part of managing human use and impact on an ecosystem.

"With strong community support, and ample opportunity to involve the community, future management processes such as estuary management plan construction and development planning will be more successful."

Mr Ewers will be conducting the survey from now until late August. Anyone who would like to be involved can email: gewers@nmsc.edu.au or fill in a questionnaire at the following locations: Woolgoolga Pharmacy, Woolgoolga RSL Club, Woolgoolga Newsagency, Library or the Sandy Beach General Store.