For anyone that missed the Goolwa protest rally the other day, it looks as though they're bringing it to the city on August 1st. It might be good to show some support for the locals.
www.adelaidenow.com.au/nocookies?a=A.flavipesMORE than 3000 people have rallied in Goolwa angry at the lack of water flowing down the River Murray into their region.
Goolwa businesses have called for a temporary weir to be built up river of the town and for water top be pumped from Lake Alexandrina to Goolwa Pool.
At the rally outside the Goolwa Aquatic Club, protesters showed how falling water levels are hurting the area's economy and environment.
Southern Alexandrina Business Association President John Clarke said Goolwa was "end of the line" for the Murray.
"We need water, not more talk or endless studies or technical debates", he said.
Mr Clarke said the area's boating and tourism industry were being affected by low water levels in the Goolwa Pool.
Some businesses had reported water had dropped 80 percent in the past 12 months.
"The whole community fabric is in danger of collapsing if we do not get water now." he said.
Businesses have called for a $5 million temporary weir to be built on the Murray at Clayton Bay.
Glenise Girke and Malcolm Beattie, who rent out a holiday house on Hindmarsh island, said rentals had virtually halved.
They also had been unable to use their boat because it kept running aground.
Goolwa residents David and Jenny Smallacombe said they were disappointed water levels had fallen so low.
Mr Smallacombe said a nearby marina with space for 115 boats now held only 10.
"They have all moved away," he said.
Senator Nick Xenophon, State Member for Finnis Michael Pengelley, State Opposition and Acting Water Spokesman Adrian Pederick and Alexandrina Mayor Kym McHugh also spoke at the rally.
Mr Clarke said the Federal and State Government were invited to send representatives but none attended.
Another rally is planned top be held at Parliament house in Adelaide on August 1.
