THE sink is wrenched from the wall, the floor, doors and walls of Crowdy Head toilet block are filthy and according to Andrea Bourke "the public toilets are a health hazard, an eyesore and a total embarrassment to the Manning Valley and those of us who live here."
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Around 12 months ago Andrea contacted Greater Taree City Council to draw its attention to the condition of the toilet block, to share images and request council act to replace the toilets. Andrea received no response from council and more than 12 months on - nothing has changed - she still has had no contact from council and the toilets are "disgusting".
"My husband and I live on a small farm 10 minutes drive from Crowdy Head and along with many tourists, often visit the beach at Crowdy Head," Andrea said.
"The public toilets are a health hazard, an eyesore and a total embarrassment to the Manning Valley and those of us who live here.
"As well they have no access for the disabled, even though the surf club has a beach access wheelchair available for the public.
"We have in the Manning Valley one of the State's most beautiful and safe beaches, but it is embarrassing and unacceptable that we expect those who visit to use the disgusting toilet/change room block as if we were a third world country.
"Several sporting events are held at Crowdy Bay each year and they draw competitors and spectators from over the State. The Crowdy Head triathlon is one of these events and all who attend are required to use these disgusting toilets.
"The surf club is not allowed to let members of the public use its bathroom facilities, and in any case, it is not usually open during the week."
Greater Taree City Council this week advised that "Crowdy Head toilets have been highlighted as a priority, and plans for a new toilet block were prepared last year as part of a funding application we submitted through the Public Reserves Management Fund Grant."
According to council's senior leader property and procurement, Daniel Aldridge council was unsuccessful in securing funding in 2014 but recently submitted its application through the same program. The proposed cost of demolishing the existing toilet block and rebuilding a new toilet block is more than $100,000.
"We look after around 50 toilet blocks across our local government area," Mr Aldridge said.
"While about 60 per cent of these are in good condition, many are up to 50-years-old and in need of repair, or in some cases, reconstruction.
"Where possible we support communities who actively seek improvements in their area. We recently demolished and replaced the toilet block at Black Head after an application for funding by Hallidays Point Tidy Towns Landcare Group was successful in gaining part-funding. Council ensured the success of this project by contributing to the funding.
"Our experience in applying for funding is that preference is given to applications originating from community trusts and community organisations, so we encourage both individuals and groups to write to their local members seeking support."
ainslee.dennis@fairfaxmedia.com.au