Lakes Entrance Paddle Boats - the truth

My last post on this issue was filled with uncertainty due to a lack of information. Since then I have done some research and investigations which I feel should be made public.                                 
Here I am simply stating THE FACTS from my extensive investigations and despite some very (in my opinion) misleading, doubtful and antagonistic press and "official" comment. After the facts will come some comment and some suggestions as to where we go from here.

Hope to see this again soon

So here are some facts:-

Does the owner/operator of Lakes Entrance Paddle Boats (LEPB) wish to continue in the business to provide this iconic attraction to the region?  - YES

Does the owner operator have a registered business name - YES

Does that business name have an A. B. N. - YES

Does the Business have relevant and current insurance - YES

Can the business be re-instated before the High season starts - YES (with assistance)

Does Lakes Entrance Paddle Boats ("LEPB") own the facilities onsite - NO

Is Lakes Entrance Paddle Boats ("LEPB") responsible for maintenance of the facilities on-site - NO

Has the rent/lease for the site been increased dramatically  - YES

Have the facilities been maintained up to a reasonable standard - NO

Has LEPB continued to operate despite the lack of maintenance - YES

Has the owner of  LEPB signed a new agreement for the site - NO (wanting to discuss the lack of maintenance and increased fees prior to signing)

Is LEPB willing to operate under a short term agreement whilst  a new agreement is negotiated - YES

AcAcross the Footbridge

Comments and Opinion

It is clear that LEPB wish to continue to operate but on a level playing field, with reasonable facilities and rental/lease fees, and with the ability to make a living.

It is evident that communication between EG Shire and LEPB has broken down for whatever reason. Communication is the key to solving this issue and personal contact and discussion would go a long way to solving much of the tension between parties.

There is a willingness on the part of LEPB to solve this, and quickly in order to return to operations prior to the high season.

From my observations there is certainly an issue with the condition of the shed from which LEPB operate and the decking to the water. This may well be due to sand movement but is, in my view, a comparatively simple fix.  There is also an exposed water pipe which should be covered, again an easy fix.

It is obvious that LEPB have an issue with the increase in fees made by EG Shire, given the current CPI, the lack of maintenance of the facilities provided by EG Shire, and the downturn in visitation. The non signing of any rental agreement/lease was due to these facts and the wish to discuss these matters with EG Shire. This was the only leverage open to the operator to try and solve the issue, which included an increase (I am advised) in rental/lease fees of over 60%.

It is clear that LEPB has a great deal of support in the community, and has a number of community members willing to assist in the restoration of this business to the town and especially for the summer season, and on a voluntary basis.

Where to from here:-

The above issues have to be resolved and quickly, it is no good EG Shire hiding behind strongly worded letters, and one sided press releases to maintain their position. This will only antagonise all parties and indeed a large section of the community.

Personal contact and pro-active discussion, not only with a view to solving the issue, but with a real wish to re-install Lakes Entrance Paddle Boats as a viable operating business is now required and action is needed almost immediately.  No refusals to speak to anyone, no more harsh letters, just real pro-active positive action across the table. 

"Conversation, Mediation, Discussion, Negotiation, Resolution = Success."

One side is ready and willing, but where is the support for tourism in the town, where is the assistance for small business, where is the marketing and promotion leading to increased visitation?  

It seems all this and more has been left behind, leaving Lakes Entrance to wallow in lower visitation, leaving its businesses to struggle to compete, and leaving its economic future in doubt.

Promote - Advertise - Market