The Alliance consists of eight community groups including Echuca Moama Tourism, C4EM and the Echuca Moama Accommodation Association, with spokesperson Geoff Kelly saying it appeared there was universal support for change.
But based on council discussions, just how that is structured may require further discussion.
“The alliance has presented to two shire briefings following numerous executive meetings and has been quite transparent throughout the whole process in that we want to work in partnership with the shire to build on what we all agree is a wonderful natural asset and turn it into a national tourist icon,” he said.
“The reality is, the shire is no longer in the best position to deliver on this objective in isolation.
“We believe there are alternative management models out there and they should be investigated – the Alliance is not seeking to take control of the Port, it’s simply advocating for change.”
The alliance was brought into the spotlight at the most recent council meeting where councillors disagreed on the management structure of a working group consisting of alliance members, Campaspe Shire representatives and Murray River Council representatives.
In a notice of motion submitted by Campaspe councillor Vicki Neele the proposed management structure would consist of four alliance members, two Campaspe Shire representatives and two representatives from Murray River council.
However the motion became a bone of contention between councillors and legal representation from a local business owner stating that a perception of bias may be created with 50 per cent of the working group being alliance members.
And a series of amendments and substantive motions caused a rift between councillors, with the final motion voted in favour of, five to three.
However after the motion passed, Daniel Mackrell lodged a rescission motion which will be discussed at the coming council meeting on August 20.
“I’m against what we see because of the inconceivable discussions we've had going to and fro of something that I know we’re all very passionate about,” Cr Daniel Mackrell said at the meeting.
“To exclude people, to include people, to say: ‘this is what it should be’. I think we need to get down to grassroots again councillors and ask ‘what are we here for’?
“I do think we need to have clear understanding of exactly what we require from the Port area.
“There is concern shown from businesses in the port that there may be a perceived – or potential for – bias given the history of the group... I seek for this motion to go forward so that we can achieve a working outcome, the ability to go forward with the Port and actually achieve something at the end of the day,” Cr Leanne Pentreath said.
“We talk about openness – this notice of motion had to go in the day before or earlier than the date we actually had the presentation from Echuca Moama Alliance... I swear at the start of this meeting, like all councillors do, that we make decisions in the best interests of our community,” Cr Wilson said.
“I am confident that this motion sets in place something that is not in the best interest of the community.”
However Mr Kelly said he was confident of a workable plan moving forward.
“It seems we may still have some hurdles to get over but we are committed to the cause, a considerable element of the region’s economic future depends on it,” he said.
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