Locals Win Fight Over Iron Cove Bay Pontoon

Canada Bay Council has rejected a proposal from the high-end venue Aqua Luna to host wedding ceremonies and bridal photographs on a popular pontoon in Iron Cove Bay. This decision comes after months of vocal opposition from the community, including rowers, sporting groups, and local residents. The venue had sought to use the 15-metre pontoon for events of up to 50 guests during times without rowing activity. Peter Luff, the venue's planning consultant, argued the proposal would enhance Aqua Luna's viability and support local jobs. However, the plan faced overwhelming community resistance, with 98% of public consultation submissions opposing it. Concerns centered on safety risks, restricted public access to a structure intended for public use, and the commercialization of Crown land zoned for public recreation and environment protection. The Drummoyne Rowing Club, a 107-year-old institution, expressed significant worries about safety and interference with its more than 200 members who rely on the pontoon for launching. Tara Anglican School for Girls also cited unacceptable safety risks for its students, who have used the pontoon for rowing for over 25 years. Rowing NSW and Sport NSW supported these objections, with Haberfield Rowing Club warning of a potential precedent for commercializing sporting infrastructure. This dispute highlights growing pressures on Sydney councils regarding commercial activities in public spaces, similar to recent permit fee increases by North Sydney Council for commercial operators. Residents emphasize the increasing importance of public spaces as Sydney's population grows and housing density increases, calling for their protection for future generations. Records indicate Aqua Luna may have been operating as a function center without necessary planning approval since 2017, despite its initial development consent in 2016 being for restaurant or cafe use. Council has stated it will work with the operator to ensure compliance. While the pontoon proposal was unanimously rejected, Aqua Luna will continue operating a function center as an ancillary use. The council plans to address the long-term future of the Drummoyne Rowing Club's lease, which is set to expire in 2034, with Aqua Luna holding a 40-year lease extension for its site into the 2070s.