A dispute over boat storage at Lake Macquarie has stirred tensions within the community, pitting Raffertys Resort residents against developer Iris Capital. The conflict arose when Iris Capital, citing resort by-laws, instructed property owners to clear out their boats from a common-use area to make room for the construction of the Cams Wharf Tavern’s deck. This move has sparked outrage among residents who have long enjoyed utilizing the designated storage area for their watercraft and trailers.
The Raffertys Resort, comprising an Iris-owned hotel and numerous tourism and residential cottages, functions under a community title overseen by a committee. The recent directive from Iris Capital has left property owners scrambling to find alternative storage options for their boats and equipment. Iris proposed relocating the boats to community land within Raffertys or to public road reserves outside the resort, with owners bearing responsibility for any damages incurred during the process.
Residents like Merv Riley and Brian Donnelly have expressed dissatisfaction with the limited alternative storage space provided by Iris, deeming it inadequate for their needs. For many property owners, the ability to store boats on-site was a significant factor in choosing to reside at Raffertys Resort, emphasizing the impact of this decision on their lifestyle and financial well-being.
The upcoming legal battle scheduled at the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal on March 26 signifies the determination of Raffertys property owners to challenge Iris Capital’s ruling. This clash is not the first between residents and the developer, as tensions have been simmering since 2022 when Iris Capital unveiled plans to redevelop the resort into a high-rise tourist hotel, significantly altering the community’s character.
The discord between Iris Capital and Raffertys residents underscores a broader issue of property rights and community development. While Iris Capital remains tight-lipped pending the tribunal hearing, residents like David Luong, who rely on their properties for rental income, are grappling with the uncertainty and potential financial repercussions of the boat storage directive.
As the residents gear up for the legal showdown, there is a palpable sense of frustration and disillusionment among property owners who feel their cherished way of life at Lake Macquarie is under threat. Despite the challenges ahead, they are determined to stand up for their rights and preserve the essence of their community against the backdrop of ongoing development pressures.
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