Archives for January 2022
Coastal protection grant funding success
Yorke Peninsula Council has been successful in securing grant funding for important coastal protection planning.
Council will receive $55,000 to put toward a $92,345 project to design coastal defence structures, plus $20,000 for a $32,628 project to review hazards and adaption options at Foul Bay.
Both projects will ensure there are plans in place to protect coastal settlements from future flooding, including from projected sea level rises.
Foul Bay circa 2011
Mayor Darren Braund thanked the State Government, in particular the Coast Protection Board and Minister for Environment and Water David Speirs, for funding Yorke Peninsula Council’s projects through the Regional Coast Protection Grant program.
“Our projects are all about looking forward and planning to protect our coastal settlements against potential future sea level rise,” Mr Braund said.
“Foul Bay is one of the communities in most urgent need of such a plan.
“In fact sea water flooded the public access to Mud Alley in mid-2021, reducing the foreshore sand dune bank, resulting in there now being limited controls in place to stop seawater inundation.
“Council will work with landowners to help reduce risks to private property.
“This is the aim of our project, and having a professional plan in place is an important step.
“Thanks to assistance from this grant plus Council’s financial contribution, we aim to complete this planning and present the findings later this year.”
Yorke Peninsula Council has also received funding through the program to design coastal defence structures at Port Clinton, James Well, Pine Point and Coobowie.
“These locations were also identified as high priority because of erosion and flooding issues, and Council cannot proceed with any construction works to address the issues without detailed designs,” Mr Braund said.
“Council intends to source funding to implement this design work in future years.”
The Coast Protection Grant program is administered by the Coast Protection Board with the support of the Department for Environment and Water.
Community feedback sought – RV Strategy
Council is seeking community input to help inform a Recreational Vehicle Strategy for Yorke Peninsula.
The strategy will set the parameters for further development of recreational vehicle tourism, and you can find the further information regarding the proposed strategy here.
Alternatively, contact Yorke Peninsula Council via email admin@yorke.sa.gov.au or 8832 0000.
Written submissions can be emailed to admin@yorke.sa.gov.au or posted to:
Yorke Peninsula Council
PO Box 57
MAITLAND SA 5573
Submissions close at 5.00pm Monday 28 February 2022.
EasyPark app launches at boat ramps
People can now use an app to pay when they launch their boats at Yorke Peninsula Council ramps.
In addition to the traditional coin machines, Council has introduced the EasyPark system, allowing people to pay using their phones.
The EasyPark system went live across Yorke Peninsula Council ramps on Friday, January 7.
“Council has introduced this system to ensure maximum convenience for boaties,” Mayor Darren Braund said.
“We know boating and fishing are massive drawcards for our region and want to make that experience as simple and enjoyable as possible.
“Nothing about the old system is changing, so if people prefer to book monthly or annual permits, or take change and use the coin machines, they are still most welcome.
“The difference is that now if someone arrives at our ramp with no coins, they are not inconvenienced.
“The continued cooperation of boaties paying to use our facilities allows us to maintain them as best we can, given our high level of infrastructure relative to our ratepayer base.
“We thank everyone for their cooperation, trust those who utilise the new EasyPark system appreciate the added convenience, and most of all hope all boaties continue enjoying our beautiful and bountiful waters here on Yorke Peninsula.”
How to use EasyPark
- Download the app
- Create an account
- Add your payment details
- Select the area code on the boat ramp sign
- Confirm purchase of ticket
Yorke Peninsula Council operations staff member Jarrod Dalton completes installation of the sign advising boat ramp users about the new EasyPark system in Edithburgh. Photo: Craig Preuss
EasyPark Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I have to use the EasyPark App, or can I just pay the same way as I always have?
A: You can pay the same way as before if you’d like, no problem at all. And there are no plans to phase out the old system either! EasyPark is just one more option for people who might not have spare change, or who find it more convenient.
Q: Does this affect annual permits?
A: No, annual and monthly permits are still available, as are professional permits, and the prices have not changed – visit yorke.sa.gov.au or call 8832 0000.
Q: Why is EasyPark cheaper than the old system?
A: For prices please refer to Council’s fees and charges register located HERE
Q: Do I have to sign up for an EasyPark membership?
A: No, it’s up to you. Members receive certain benefits, but you don’t need to be a member to use EasyPark.
Q: Are there privacy concerns?
A: You do not need to worry. Any personal information you put into the EasyPark app will not compromise your privacy – the app provider is subject to the Privacy Act and cannot forward your details on to third parties contrary to the Act. If you want to be extra sure, you can lodge a request for the app provider not to pass on personal details to third parties – this is not considered necessary since you’re protected by the Privacy Act, but is an additional option.
Q: What if I just can’t get the app to work properly?
A: A call centre is available to help you – it’s open 6.30am to 8.30pm Monday to Friday, and 7.30am to 8.30pm on weekends. Just call 1300 734 070 for help, or to pay over the phone.
Q: Is using this app some experimental new idea?
A: No, EasyPark is already in use at other Council boat ramps, including at Copper Coast Council, and has caused no issues of significance.
Q: What’s the catch? Are there hidden fees?
There are no hidden fees. The only catch is whatever you reel in out on the water!