Press Releases
29th March 2006
CCARP CALLS FOR SUPPORT FOLLOWING THE NSW BID FOR HMAS CANBERRA
The Central Coast Artificial Reef Project (CCARP) group today called for the Federal Government to look favourably on New South Wales’ application for the HMAS Canberra.
“Last Friday we were extremely pleased to hear that the NSW Government has lodged an Expression of Interest for the decommissioned HMAS Canberra,” said Sue Dengate, Secretary of CCARP.
“At last, after lobbing extremely hard for this artificial reef for over six years, we are within sight of our ultimate goal coming to fruition.”
“We have worked closely with Grant McBride over the past year to get the state to lodge an EOI, and I am relieved we have finally achieved the first stage of this long running campaign.”
“Now we will shift our focus to the Federal Government and the Defence Minister to have the ship gifted to NSW for the Central Coast. We have always enjoyed the strong support of both Federal members, Jim Lloyd and Ken Ticehurst and we are now seeking written support form members of the Central Coast community for our project to ensure that the Central Coast is the recipient of this valuable asset.”
“The impact of an artificial reef would be of enormous benefit to the Central Coast, as it will not only boost the dive industry and tourism for the Central Coast, it will also be an excellent opportunity for marine research. Due to its size, this vessel will attract overseas visitors to our area and therefore be a major tourist drawcard bringing positive financial rewards for the hospitality and retail industry, which means more jobs and more money for the Central Coast!”
“It’s a win for the entire region, not just for divers and researchers.”
“We have been working on this project now for six years and we hope the broader community will support us in this campaign to lobby the Commonwealth Government for this incredible ship,” Sue Dengate said.
“We were very disappointed to have missed out to Queensland in 2000 with the HMAS Brisbane, so this time it our turn.”
For further information or to arrange an interview, please call Sue Dengate on: Ph. 0417 028286
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