The community has had its say in shaping the future of Brisbane Water, with over 80 community members attending the Brisbane Water Estuary Management workshops last week.

An information evening was held at the Erina Centre to present the findings of the Brisbane Water Estuary Process Study, followed by three community consultation workshops held at Wagstaffe, Gosford and Woy Woy South.

Councillor Peter Freewater said the community consultation events were aimed at capturing the thoughts, values and knowledge of the community regarding the sustainable management of the Brisbane Water Estuary.

"The level of interest shown in these workshops highlights that the people of Gosford identify strongly with Brisbane Water and want the estuary to persist in excellent condition into the future, for the benefit and enjoyment of their children and grandchildren", Clr Freewater said.

 "The community response has been tremendous and reflects the passion the local community feel towards the estuary."

Several issues were raised as priority focus areas during the events. These included sedimentation, water quality, stormwater pollution, foreshore erosion, loss of important habitat for flora and fauna and changes in fish stocks.

A diversity of management options were considered including dredging, foreshore restoration works, construction of sea walls, signage, improved pollution management and monitoring programs, seagrass friendly moorings, improved access for recreation and maintenance of infrastructure.

The priority issues and management strategies raised during the workshops will contribute to the development of a Brisbane Water Estuary Management Plan. This plan is currently being prepared by consultants Cardno Lawson Treloar.

A draft Management Study is expected to be released for public exhibition during August 2009 and will be followed up with a draft Management Plan later in the year.

For community members who missed out on the opportunity to contribute, the Brisbane Water Estuary Management Study Feedback Form is available from the Gosford City Council web site (www.gosford.nsw.gov.au)

The deadline for contributions is Friday 5 June 2009.

For more information, please contact Ann Stewart on 4325 8885 or email ann.stewart@gosford.nsw.gov.au .