Former Kiama Mayor Sandra McCarthy, who is a fellow at University of Wollongong and lectures in public policy at university, is leading a constructive conversation about the importance of accessible public amenities.

She emphasises that the role of councillors is to create policy, while it is the responsibility of council staff to implement those policies effectively.

"Public amenities should be just that, public," McCarthy asserts. "There is no reason why facilities funded by public money, on public land, should not be available to everyone."

One of the key issues raised is the lack of accessible toilets at locations such as the Kevin Walsh Oval, where the disabled toilet remains locked.

Users must first obtain a key from a nearby pub or supermarket, making it impractical for many. 

"Imagine needing a toilet urgently, only to find it locked and having to leave a person in need while you go searching for a key. It is unacceptable," said a local advocate.

McCarthy congratulated the community on the opening of the new Gerringong Surf Club, acknowledging the dedication and effort that went into its development. 

However, she notes that despite reassurances, accessibility concerns remain unaddressed.

She sees this as an opportunity for the council and the community to work together to ensure public spaces meet everyone's needs.

Access to public toilets is not merely a convenience, it is a fundamental necessity.

For the hundreds of people living with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and other medical conditions, immediate and reliable access to facilities is essential.

Without it, individuals face undue stress and discomfort, which can significantly impact their ability to engage in daily life.

This is not just an issue of disability access, it affects the entire community.

Families with young children, elderly residents and those with medical needs all depend on well maintained, accessible public amenities to participate fully in public spaces.

 McCarthy pointed out that even basic features such as seating, changing areas and showers are often substandard or unavailable in public spaces, while members only areas are fully equipped with high quality facilities.

The conversation extends to the broader issue of how public spaces should be managed. 

"The more people that are around and using these spaces, the safer and more vibrant they become," McCarthy said. "We should be encouraging use, not restricting it."

Federal funding is available to improve beach access, with $19 million recently allocated to install rubber webbing that allows wheelchairs to move easily onto the sand. 

McCarthy hopes that Kiama Council will take advantage of this funding to ensure that all residents and visitors can enjoy the beaches.

"We have an aging population, a growing number of visitors and a community that values inclusion," McCarthy said. "Ensuring public access to public facilities is the very least we can do."

The push for better accessibility is gaining momentum, with increasing numbers of community members speaking out.

"It is not going away," McCarthy insists. "This is about fairness, dignity and basic human rights."

McCarthy remains optimistic that by working together, councillors, council staff and the community can create meaningful change, ensuring that public facilities are truly open and accessible to all.