There’s been movement on the stalemate between WaterNSW and Kyogle Fishing Club with a formal interim licence to be issued next week.
The gates to Bells Bay Campground are still locked despite initial reports they would be opened last Wednesday, July 9.
State MP Janelle Saffin confirmed that WaterNSW said the gates will definitely open this Wednesday, July 16.
When WaterNSW decided to close Bells Bay, the cottage used by the fishing club at the entrance to Toonumbar Dam and the conference centre, the fishing club was gobsmacked.
IndyNR.com published its first story about the closure on May 24. Read it here.
Kyogle Fishing Club president Barry Reeves said WaterNSW has agreed to open Bells Bay Campground with bookings and access to be managed by the fishing club.
Access to the campground will revert to the previous operating arrangements, WaterNSW said.
That is, gates open during weekends and when caretaker is present, and closed when the caretaker is not on site.
WaterNSW said it will explore long term options for the site and a possible alternative accomodation option for the caretaker.
”We’re progressing in the right way,” Mr Reeves said.
”We’re chuffed.”
It’s not a solution but a good temporary measure that allows Kyogle Fishing Club to continue to operate out of Bells Bay and gives breathing space for Kyogle Council and Ms Saffin to negotiate with WaterNSW.
Read more about the issue here.
This article appeared on indyNR.com on 14 July 2025.
