THE Fern Bay Fullerton Cove Progress Association is a voice for the people.

After a group of residents lobbied Port Stephens Council to use S94 funds to build a community hall, rather than upgrade and renovate the outdated facilities in the area, the decision to form a Fern Bay Fullerton Cove Progress Association was made.

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Since then, the group has advocated to local councils, state government and planning associations on behalf of the community.

Zoned in the West Ward of Port Stephens Council, they believe that Fern Bay and Fullerton Cove can often be left out, however, with the establishment of a progress association, they have a stronger voice and understanding of what the residents want, which they actively use to create change in the area.

“We don’t get paid to do what we do – we’re in this as residents in the area working to benefit the community,” President Eddie Horn told News Of The Area.

“The progress association is a way of representing the community; giving residents a voice on any sort of issues that affect us.

Through the COVID-19 pandemic, the group has held bi-monthly meetings on zoom, inviting councillors, community members and association members to log on and keep up to date with what’s going on in the community.

The group helps to keep the community informed on Development Applications, Council Public Exhibitions and legislation changes which directly impact residents.

“We try to find things to sink our teeth into, which we’ve done over the past few years.

“It’s usually the fringe areas of a local government area that get forgotten, so it’s crucial that we hold our elected representatives accountable and the best way we can do this is with as many locals banding together,” Secretary Lea Harris said.

The association is still advocating for a supermarket in the area, updated facilities, and parks in the estates, as well as a multitude of other issues relevant to the community.

For anyone wishing to join the association, a $5 membership applies per person.

Contact secretary Lea Harris on fernbayfullertoncovepa@gmail.com for more information.

By Tara CAMPBELL