Wellington East community group proposed
A new marina residents’ association could advocate for locals with the Coorong council and other organisations.
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About 50 Wellington East residents have packed into the Tailem Bend Community Library for the first meeting of a new community group for the area.
The turnout on Monday night gave momentum to a push to formally establish a Wellington East Marina Community Group as an incorporated body.
The meeting was led by long-term resident Angie Tomkinson, who has called the marina home for 15 years.
“In those 15 years, a lot has changed,” she said.
“But it’s still such a peaceful place – you see beautiful sunsets and the birdsong in the mornings is memorable.”
She noted that holiday periods brought a livelier atmosphere, with boats and jet skis on the water.
Laughter filled the room when she mentioned the well-known local B&B whose owner was famous for his late-night Elvis impersonations.
The purpose of the meeting was clear: to create a united, incorporated body that could advocate effectively to the Coorong council, particularly with elections approaching.
Residents discussed priorities including safer roads, improved street lighting and signage, and the creation of a shared community gathering space – an idea that drew strong support.
Guest speaker Tammy O’Malley, from the council, outlined the steps required to form an incorporated association and explained how this would open opportunities to apply for community grants after a 12-month period or so.
Although unable to attend, resident Ian Crane expressed his strong support to the gathering, saying he was keen to initiate regular “coffee and chat” mornings to maintain community engagement.
The group’s next meeting is scheduled for April 27, likely at the Tailem Bend Primary School library, with alternative venue options also being explored.
