Pristine Waters' Story

The communities of Pristine Waters on the NSW north coast are working to find a balance between economic development and maintaining their relaxed lifestyle in beautiful surroundings.

"Our collection of villages is fighting
to retain its unique character and sense of place."
Phil Rogers, Community Economic Development Officer, Pristine Waters Council

Facing the challenges

Pristine Waters comprises the north coast communities of Wooli, Ulmarra and Nymboida with a population of approximately 2,000. Currently, all councils on the eastern seaboard are facing enormous pressure to develop.

Very much a rural local government area

The relaxed, rural, village lifestyle, the abundant natural resources and attractions of the area include pristine rivers, national parks and beautiful beaches basking in a balmy, sub-tropical climate.

A small, dispersed village population is spread over a huge geographic area. The Nymboida district is a relatively isolated and disadvantaged area which has had to substantially rely on its own initiatives to promote its unique attributes.

The area receives little spin off from the activities of the regional centres located a considerable distance away. By working together for a better future in the community planning process, we aim to build strong and self reliant communities.

Our project

We needed to help our communities build new industries to replace those in decline and to protect our natural environment.

There are plenty of opportunities for recreation and ecotourism. We see our project as finding a balance between development and the preservation of the pristine character of the area.

We held community planning and marketing workshops in the villages of Nymboida and Wooli. These communities have since commenced work on a range of projects which include the development of nature based tourism.

Community planning turns threats into opportunities

Links are being made between these communities which will eventually see a greater cooperation and networking 'from the mountains to the sea'.

What we've achieved

Our villages are working to retain the unique character and sense of place. Sustainable economic development holds the key to our communities' future.

The partnership of community, business and council is one that will build on the initial steps taken through the Townlife Development Program.

The village of Ulmarra decided to stage the inaugural Festival of the River last year to stimulate the local economy and market the township's unique charm and rich history, both aboriginal and colonial. Thousands visited Ulmarra for the Festival and another one is being held this year.

Wooli is becoming famous for its Goanna Pulling National Championships and intends to increase its reputation by enhancing this whacky event in the future. No animals are involved in this improvisational sport. Instead, people pretend to be goannas and are pulled along by their partner in the event, using a scarf around their neck as a lead.

Festivals and Events - annual goanna pulling competition

How the Townlife Development Program has helped

The program has provided the communities and local council with a clear strategic direction for the next 10 years.

Our vision is to achieve, in partnership with the communities, a sustainable environment, economy and lifestyle. The partnership of community, business and council is one that will build on the initial steps taken through the Townlife Development Program.

What we're doing now

The next step will be to develop a new strategic direction for the tourism industry in Wooli.

This will help to identify potential new tourism businesses as well as the skills base that may be available within the community to make it happen.

For example, given customer service and tourism training, former commercial fishermen can use their boating and fishing experience to conduct a deep sea recreational fishing tour business.

Nymboida has joined our tourism and economic development committee. A community filmmaking project is being undertaken. It has the working title of 'Trouble Under the Water' and is being written and produced by the children of Nymboida Public School, who will also be its stars.

We are also now working on:

• a bush regeneration partnership with a local nature-based tourism business
• a plan of management for sports and parklands
• establishing a nature-based tourism network including product development and marketing/promotions
• a community and social development project in collaboration with the local school.

Our collection of villages is fighting to retain its unique character and sense of place. Sustainable economic development holds the key to the future of our communities.

Clarence River, Ulmarra

For further information

Contact	:	Phil Rogers, Community Economic Development Officer
Address	:	Pristine waters Council
Phone	:	02 6641 7309
Email	:	progers@pristinewaters.nsw.gov.au

WWW

:

http://www.pristinewaters.nsw.gov.au