One of the most visited tourist attractions in Wollongong is Belmore Basin, the picturesque little harbour featuring Brighton beach - with it's grassy lawns and backdrop light houses.
It is home to the fishing fleet and boasts the fish market, recreational boating, careening facilities and a host of interesting stores, including a fine seafood restaurant.
Recently the state government became interested in this local jewel - and now there are plans for it's redevelopment, including extensions to create a vast marina for the rich boating fraternity.
We are told that the government is considering six development plans submitted by developers. To the consternation of citizens, these plans are to be kept under wraps and will not be revealed to the public.
The government alone will decide what is best for Wollongong - and the citizens will take no part in that decision.
The arrogance of that diktat is overwhelming - and produced a huge tsunami of opposition. In particular, this state government is tainted with corruption and there is a perception that the only interest in making a decision will hinge on which developer offers the highest bribe to Labor coffers.
New Premier Nathan Rees rushed to offer appeasement. The government will appoint a local committee of leading citizens to liaise and inform on the wishes of the local community - but they will not be allowed to view these six plans under consideration - nor will their views have influence on whatever decision is finally taken.
What odds that this committee will be a hand picked group of people with Labor interests who can be relied upon to faithfully nod their heads and support whatever plan this government finally favours ?
At least it resolves one question. The state government is involved in a gigantic con to convince the electors that it is listening to the people - and that the days of cash for approval of shonky deals is over.
It's performance on the redevelopment of Belmore Basin puts the lie to conjecture !
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