The Minnamurra River is more than just a local icon. It’s a lifeline for native wildlife, a sanctuary for biodiversity, and a cherished destination for those who swim, paddle, and picnic along its shores. Protecting it should be non-negotiable. Yet, Kiama Council’s plan to relocate its works depot to the Minnamurra Waste and Recycling Depot, situated alarmingly close to the river, has raised serious questions about the environmental risks—and whether they’re being taken seriously enough.

Industrial depots are not known for their harmony with fragile ecosystems. Even with best-practice safeguards like advanced stormwater management, runoff capture, and vegetated buffer zones, the reality is that runoff can and does happen. When pollutants like chemicals or heavy metals find their way into the water, the damage is often irreversible.

Council might argue that their plans will meet environmental standards. But this isn’t just about meeting minimum requirements. This is about ensuring the Minnamurra River—the lifeblood of our region—remains as pristine tomorrow as it is today. And there’s already significant pressure to get it right, particularly given the ongoing scrutiny of other major projects in the region, such as the new Shellharbour Hospital, which has faced tough questions about runoff management.

Adding to this, newly elected Councillors Matt Brown, Melinda Lawton, Mike Cains, Imogen Draisma and Mayor Cameron McDonald attended the August 2024 Minnamurra Progress Association meeting and committed to protecting the river's ecosystem. Their pledge resonated strongly with the community, which is deeply invested in safeguarding this vital natural resource. The question now is whether that commitment will translate into meaningful action.

The community deserves reassurance that this depot relocation won’t turn the Minnamurra River into a cautionary tale. That starts with transparency. What independent assessments have been conducted? Have alternative locations been fully explored? What long-term monitoring and accountability measures are planned?

Every decision Kiama Council makes here will set a precedent. If this project prioritises cost-cutting over environmental care, it sends the wrong message—not just to the people of Kiama but to anyone who treasures the Minnamurra River. And if there’s one thing this community has made clear, it’s that the river is worth protecting.

Kiama Council has a choice: to lead with integrity and foresight or to risk the very asset that defines this region. Let’s hope they choose wisely—because once the damage is done, no plan will undo it.