A majority of councillors voted to approve a funding request of $1000, lodged by event organisers Cathy Law and Perrie Croshaw, who made a deputation at the ordinary meeting last Tuesday.

Ms Law said the event would inspire twitchers to return to natural bird sanctuaries in the area, and in effect, support Shoalhaven Heads businesses impacted by the Berry Bypass.

The event will lead into Birdlife Australia’s National Bird Week, running from October 22-28.

It will offer a range of activities for bird lovers of all levels of experience.

Its underlying aim is to support the conservation of birds and their habitats.

In the general manager’s notes Russ Pigg said Shoalhaven Tourism representatives have met with event organisers to discuss funding opportunities, marketing and event logistics.

“Due to the small number of participants in the first year and the resulting return on investment the event does not meet the criteria for support from Shoalhaven Tourism,” Mr Pigg said.

“Shoalhaven Tourism does however recognise the potential of the event and will continue to support the organisers with in-kind assistance and advice and have encouraged them to apply for funding from both Shoalhaven Tourism and Destination NSW for their larger event in 2019.”

FOR: Crs Amanda Findley, Joanna Gash, John Wells, Patricia White, John Levett, Kaye Gartner, Nina Cheyne, Annette Alldrick, Mark Kitchener, Greg Watson

AGAINST: Crs Bob Proudfoot, Mitchell Pakes

ABSENT: Cr Andrew Guile