Since the last update, the sub-committee has added a new member, met with Adelaide Plains Council, continued communications with DEW regarding the northern vehicle track and more.
New Sub-Committee Member
Long-time Thompson Beach resident Emma Micklethwaite was invited to join the TBPA Environment Sub-Committee and accepted. Emma has already provided a great deal of very useful input.
APC Meeting
Sharon Clues, Emma Micklethwaite and Steve Peters met with Warwick Barnes from Adelaide Plains Council on March 19 to discuss grants, a draft project action plan, signage and a number of other issues. Further details on the outcomes of this meeting will be presented at the April 11 TBPA Committee meeting.
DEW Communications
Following the discussions with DEW representatives at the March TBPA meeting and the subsequent TBPA committee vote in favour of closing the northern vehicle track, an email was sent to Ian Falkenberg (DEW) by Michael Bloch informing Ian of the vote outcome.
Ian acknowledged the communication, stating there were “some very good constructive discussion and suggestions from the Thompson’s Beach Progress Association re the future management of the crossing and track to Bakers Creek”.
DEW will be taking these suggestions on board and working towards installing safety signs as soon as possible as a start. In early April, Ian F. said DEW would endeavor to have signs in place by Easter.
Grants
Sharon and Emma have been busy in relation to grant opportunities. They are working with Warwick Barnes, DEW and FAIBS on a joint Community Arts & Cultural Development project for which a funding opportunity has arisen. This grant has a closing date of 12 August 2019.
A submission of an EOI for a grant for solar power for The Shed has been submitted by Mick Lewis. A solar power system would not only slash the TBPA’s electricity costs, but also reduce its carbon footprint.
Clean Up Day News Item
Michael published a news item on the web site regarding the TBPA-organised Thompson Beach Cleanup Day, which was held on March 17. Thanks to all those who gave up part of their Sunday to organise/participate in the event – Jeff Thomas, Trevor Lipsett, Jacqui Koerner, Ken Wade, Paul Jones and Jan and Ian Telfer.
Beach And Access Path Cleanup/Maintenance Update
In a project in collaboration with Wildlife & Coast Care Thompson Beach, some residents have “adopted” sections of beach to keep clear of rubbish and/or an access path to keep free of vegetation and other debris.
Areas known to be covered regularly (at least weekly) so far include Ian and Jan T. cleaning up around the Rec 1 boat ramp, toilet and picnic area daily. Ian and Jan are also helping to maintain the walkway opposite Plover Avenue (which is also being looked after by Sharon C. and Steve P.)
Kath A. and Emma M. are looking after paths between the Kestrel Crescent entrances (Emma also the south entrance path) and keeping the general beach area tidy (Emma also south to Rec 1 area).
Michael B. is taking care of the Kestrel Crescent north entrance beach path, plus doing a weekly rubbish run along the beach between Kestrel Crescent south entrance through to Bakers Creek.
It’s been a great effort to date and we’re hoping to expand coverage to fully cover TB south. If other areas are being regularly cared for, the committee would love to know in order to record and recognise the work.