I want to thank all the community for making my recent visit to Lord Howe Island such a wonderful experience.
Lord Howe Island is a special place, with a unique and rich history. But as you know, being so remote from the mainland has its challenges, as well as advantages. What came through to me throughout my visit was just how deeply you all care about your community, and how you work together to make it better. Thanks to the Board, especially the elected Islanders and those that gave input to the community strategic plan. It is a good foundation for setting the island up for the future as will the review of the Local Environment Plan.
The special connection you have with the Island was most evident to me when I visited the school. The children of Lord Howe were telling me about the endemic wildlife on their island. Their extensive knowledge of local birds, fish and insects was incredibly impressive. I was also interested in their views of what sort of ship you need to replace the old one.
The NSW Government is investing in critical infrastructure that will support a healthy island into the future. While the team have been doing a great job to try and manage the current waste facility, it does need redevelopment. Site preparations have commenced including technical studies and planning to improve capacity, recycling capability and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.
As you know, we will also be replacing the current freight vessel. The new vessel will be custom-built, and infrastructure will be updated to ensure continuity of this critical service. The location will be determined after further technical work and consultation. An Expression of Interest process has commenced seeking interested vessel builders and shipping operators.
I wanted to personally thank both the Board and staff for their continued work on biosecurity, protecting the pristine environment, and managing endangered species back to a healthy population. The Wood-Eating Cockroach is by far my favorite cockroach, but nothing quite compares with meeting the Phasmids.
I know it has been challenging, but your conservation work has been world-leading, and everyone should be proud of their contribution.
The current air service was an issue that was raised with me everywhere. The Government is working through the EOI process to secure the future air connections to the mainland. The community will be kept updated while this occurs.
Lastly, I want to thank the Lord Howe community. Whether at the community picnic or those who witnessed our terrible bowling skills at the club, it was fantastic to hear from you all. Thanks to the team at Driftwood, Benny’s fish truck, Coral Café, Jim’s café, Somerset apartments, Dean, Bob, Dave, and all who made sure we were well looked after. Thank you to Campbell and Macca for the bikes and Karen for the snorkelling gear.
Reading about the Island is one thing, but being guided by a community from the land to the sea leads to a much better understanding.
I look forward to coming back to see the new vessel and waste facility (and for a snorkel).
