BY ISABEL EVERETT
The Bahtabah Local Aboriginal Land Council have successfully made a claim to take over land formally home to the Pelican Marina, exactly five years since the structure spectacularly collapsed into Lake Macquarie.
The site has been disused since 8 February 2016 when part of the building – including the popular Milano's on the Lake restaurant – became submerged in the water after pylons under the marina gave way.
The Land Council's claim was approved by the NSW government after it was originally lodged in the months following the collapse.
Under the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983, land councils are entitled to lodge claims over Crown land that is unused or unneeded.
Ms Catley said it was very exciting this parcel of land would finally have a future.
"The Pelican marina was a wonderful facility that was well-used by the community. However, for the last five years it's sat here dormant."
"It's fantastic that the Bahtabah land council is now in the position to look at options for the site so this prime piece of land can be up-and-running again as a facility the whole community can enjoy."
The land is zoned IN4 Working Waterfront, which is a specialised zone that provides for maritime-specific activities and complementary industries which require direct waterfront access.
Bahtabah Local Aboriginal Land Council CEO Carol Proctor said the land council planned to develop the site in a manner consistent with or similar to pre-existing amenities.
"We need to go through our formal process to notify members and then consider the range of possibilities for the development of the site."
"The aim will be to contribute to the economic growth of the area, as well as to provide training and jobs for our community."
Image: Fire and Rescue NSW
