MJB

23 July 2004

Mr David Mason
Director Disability Rights Policy
Human Rights & Equal Opportunity Commission
GPO Box 5218
SYDNEY NSW 2001

Dear David

Thank you for your email requesting additional information in regard to Council's application for exemption for Echuca Wharf .

Council has accepted the Tourism Investment Strategy for the Port of Echuca , and access issues are addressed in this report.

Council has appointed a Tourism Investment Strategy Advisory Committee, consisting of Council, Port of Echuca Authority and community representatives. This Committee has met on a number of occasions, and at its meeting today, commenced discussions on prioritising works recommended in the Strategy, which includes access issues. At its meeting on August 6, the intention is to further refine project priorities. Committee members have also requested the full Disability Access Report on the Wharf so they are conversant with the access issues.

Funding applications are being prepared for both the Federal Regional Partnership Program and Victorian Regional Infrastructure Development Fund. Funding applications are being prepared for Stage 1 works, being the Wharf (restoration, structure upgrade and improvement of access) and Streetscape Program, over three years.

On this basis, I cannot give you a firm date for commencement of works, or completion date, however the Port of Echuca Authority and Council are committed to this project.

If you have any queries in relation to this matter, please do not hesitate to contact me on 5481 2242.

Yours sincerely

JON AUJARD

GENERAL MANAGER ASSETS & PLANNING