Ocean Baths Redesign Faces Community Scrutiny
A community organisation has raised significant concerns about the proposed Stage 2 redevelopment of Newcastle Ocean Baths, questioning whether public health lessons from the pandemic are being ignored. Friends of Newcastle Ocean Baths Inc. has called on City of Newcastle to consult independent health and design experts before proceeding with the current concept.
The group highlights that during the COVID-19 pandemic, the baths remained open and were well-utilised specifically because of their open-air change rooms. This comes as Canberra-based infectious disease expert Professor Sanjaya Senanayake recently warned that another pandemic is likely to occur sooner rather than later.
Safety and Accessibility Questions
Beyond pandemic preparedness, the community group has raised additional safety concerns about the proposed design. Particular attention has been drawn to a handrail that extends into deep water, which is now surrounded by buoys to warn swimmers of the potential hazard.
The organisation questions whether aged-care or accessibility specialists were consulted during the design phase, given this potentially dangerous feature. They're seeking clarity on what medical experts provided input into the current concept plans.
Renewable Energy Debate Intensifies
In separate correspondence, the energy debate continues with local residents defending renewable technologies against claims of intermittency. One writer with over 30 years of experience living with stand-alone solar power testified to the reliability of renewables when paired with appropriate storage systems.
The Tomago aluminium smelter could become a model for how Australia powers heavy industry with clean energy, according to the correspondent. Large-scale batteries were highlighted as a immediate solution that can be approved and operational within months, with Australia currently constructing one of the world's largest batteries near Lake Munmorah.
Cruise Ship Controversy and Protest Politics
The cancellation of cruise ship visits to Newcastle has sparked controversy, with former Greens leader Bob Brown suggesting that decision-makers don't want thousands of passengers witnessing Rising Tide's upcoming coal ship blockade. Brown compared the situation to the 1983 Franklin dam protests, where cruise boat tourists gained ringside seats to environmental activism.
Meanwhile, other correspondents questioned whether climate activists' actions were inadvertently damaging the local cruise industry during a period when it's already struggling. With less than ten ships scheduled for the 2024/25 season, concerns were raised about the economic impact and the need for additional cruise terminal infrastructure in NSW.
The community conversation continues to reflect diverse perspectives on local development, environmental action, and economic priorities in the Newcastle region.
