Shaolin Temple - Major Project Application - Comberton Grange - NSW Australia - from November 2012
Exhibition details: Enquiries: Tel: 1300 305 695 Email: information@planning.nsw.gov.au NSW DoP&E web page: http://majorprojects.planning.nsw.gov.au/page/development-categories/tourism---recreation/tourist--convention---entertainment/?action=view_job&job_id=1134
Application 06_0135, Comberton Grange, Nowra. Proponent: Shaolin Temple Foundation (Australia) Ltd. Department of Planning & Environment website: majorprojects.planning.nsw.gov.au On exhibition until 18 December 2012 at: DOP&E Sydney Information Centre (Bridge St), DOP&E Wollongong office (Crown St) and Shoalhaven City Council Nowra (Bridge St). Fax submissions to: 02 9228 6455; Post to: Major Projects Assessment, Department of Planning & Environment, GPO Box 39, Sydney NSW 2001; Email to: plan_comment@planning.nsw.gov.au, or via the entry for the project on the Department’s website: majorprojects.planning.nsw.gov.au
Maps and further description of the proposal can be seen on the following local web page: http://www.savethebay.net.au/stb_comberton-grange-paddle.html -Save Jervis Bay > Comberton Grange Homestead
The proposal is being followed by KungFuMagazine.com, a Kung Fu publication with world wide exposure. In particular, see the magazine's forum thread: Shaolin Temple OZ
Exhibition details: Enquiries: Tel: 1300 305 695 Email: information@planning.nsw.gov.au NSW DoP&E web page: http://majorprojects.planning.nsw.gov.au/page/development-categories/tourism---recreation/tourist--convention---entertainment/?action=view_job&job_id=1134
Application 06_0135, Comberton Grange, Nowra. Proponent: Shaolin Temple Foundation (Australia) Ltd. Department of Planning & Environment website: majorprojects.planning.nsw.gov.au On exhibition until 18 December 2012 at: DOP&E Sydney Information Centre (Bridge St), DOP&E Wollongong office (Crown St) and Shoalhaven City Council Nowra (Bridge St). Fax submissions to: 02 9228 6455; Post to: Major Projects Assessment, Department of Planning & Environment, GPO Box 39, Sydney NSW 2001; Email to: plan_comment@planning.nsw.gov.au, or via the entry for the project on the Department’s website: majorprojects.planning.nsw.gov.au
Maps and further description of the proposal can be seen on the following local web page: http://www.savethebay.net.au/stb_comberton-grange-paddle.html -Save Jervis Bay > Comberton Grange Homestead
The proposal is being followed by KungFuMagazine.com, a Kung Fu publication with world wide exposure. In particular, see the magazine's forum thread: Shaolin Temple OZ
27 December 2016 - Shaolin Temple loses Charity Status in Australia
Dear All, I found out on Christmas day that Shaolin Temple Foundation Aust has had their charity status revoked, backdated to December 2015. As well as being noted on the ACNC register (Australian Commission for Non for profit Charities) the following article appeared on the kungfumagazine.com forum (thread : Shaolin Temple Oz).
Wishing yourself and your family a wonderful silly season. Kind Regards, Margot
20 Dec 2016 - Shaolin Temple and Camp Gallipoli lose charity status - More organisations lose their charitable status.
The Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) has revoked the charity status of two organisations following compliance investigations
into their activities and operations. Web: http://www.acnc.gov.au/RN52B75Q?ID=ED980F9C-8E2E-4AA2-8F4D-2841D2297AE1&noleft=1
The organisations are: Shaolin Temple Foundation (Australia) LTD - revoked on 8 December 2016, with the effective date of revocation 2 December 2015.
Camp Gallipoli Foundation Incorporated – revoked on 15 December 2016, with the effective date of revocation 10 February 2014.
Both organisations have 60 days (from the date of revocation) to object to the ACNC’s revocation decisions, in which case they will be independently reviewed internally. According to the Australian Business Register (ABR), Shaolin Temple Foundation (Australia) has been operating since 2006 and is based in New South Wales. The Shaolin Temple Foundation was endorsed by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) to access the following Commonwealth charity tax concessions – GST Concession, Income Tax Exemption, and FBT Rebate.
According to the ABR, Camp Gallipoli Foundation Incorporated has been operating since 2014 and is based in South Australia. It was endorsed by the ATO to access the following Commonwealth charity tax concessions - GST concession and income tax exemption. The organisations will now lose access to these Commonwealth charity tax concessions. Commissioner Susan Pascoe said that while the ACNC could not provide further details, due to the secrecy provisions in the ACNC Act, the ACNC’s approach to compliance activity was proportionate.
“The ACNC’s approach to regulating Australia’s 54,000 registered charities is to be firm, yet fair,” Pascoe said. “Members of the public can be assured that compliance revocations are reserved for the most serious of cases. “Where possible, we work with charities to help them get back on track by providing guidance and education. In fact, the majority of concerns raised with the ACNC are resolved by our Advice Services team.”
Commissioner Pascoe encouraged donors to always check the Charity Register to ensure they are giving to a registered charity. “Organisations that have their charity status revoked by the ACNC are easy to identify,” Pascoe said. “A registered charity will appear with a green tick on the Charity Register, however when a charity is revoked, a red cross will appear. If an organisation isn’t registered with the ACNC, it will not appear at all.
“It is important that people check the Charity Register to ensure that they are getting accurate and up-to-date information about a charity.” Pascoe also encouraged members of the public to raise any concerns with the ACNC. “Each month we receive around 60 concerns about charities, two-thirds of which come from members of the public,” she said. “In the last financial year we received 930 concerns, a significant increase compared to the 810 we received the year prior. The influx of concerns resulted in around 50 per cent more investigations than the year prior. “The public often provide valuable information that helps the ACNC investigate, and ultimately, revoke a non-compliant charity’s status.”
Dear All, I found out on Christmas day that Shaolin Temple Foundation Aust has had their charity status revoked, backdated to December 2015. As well as being noted on the ACNC register (Australian Commission for Non for profit Charities) the following article appeared on the kungfumagazine.com forum (thread : Shaolin Temple Oz).
Wishing yourself and your family a wonderful silly season. Kind Regards, Margot
20 Dec 2016 - Shaolin Temple and Camp Gallipoli lose charity status - More organisations lose their charitable status.
The Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) has revoked the charity status of two organisations following compliance investigations
into their activities and operations. Web: http://www.acnc.gov.au/RN52B75Q?ID=ED980F9C-8E2E-4AA2-8F4D-2841D2297AE1&noleft=1
The organisations are: Shaolin Temple Foundation (Australia) LTD - revoked on 8 December 2016, with the effective date of revocation 2 December 2015.
Camp Gallipoli Foundation Incorporated – revoked on 15 December 2016, with the effective date of revocation 10 February 2014.
Both organisations have 60 days (from the date of revocation) to object to the ACNC’s revocation decisions, in which case they will be independently reviewed internally. According to the Australian Business Register (ABR), Shaolin Temple Foundation (Australia) has been operating since 2006 and is based in New South Wales. The Shaolin Temple Foundation was endorsed by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) to access the following Commonwealth charity tax concessions – GST Concession, Income Tax Exemption, and FBT Rebate.
According to the ABR, Camp Gallipoli Foundation Incorporated has been operating since 2014 and is based in South Australia. It was endorsed by the ATO to access the following Commonwealth charity tax concessions - GST concession and income tax exemption. The organisations will now lose access to these Commonwealth charity tax concessions. Commissioner Susan Pascoe said that while the ACNC could not provide further details, due to the secrecy provisions in the ACNC Act, the ACNC’s approach to compliance activity was proportionate.
“The ACNC’s approach to regulating Australia’s 54,000 registered charities is to be firm, yet fair,” Pascoe said. “Members of the public can be assured that compliance revocations are reserved for the most serious of cases. “Where possible, we work with charities to help them get back on track by providing guidance and education. In fact, the majority of concerns raised with the ACNC are resolved by our Advice Services team.”
Commissioner Pascoe encouraged donors to always check the Charity Register to ensure they are giving to a registered charity. “Organisations that have their charity status revoked by the ACNC are easy to identify,” Pascoe said. “A registered charity will appear with a green tick on the Charity Register, however when a charity is revoked, a red cross will appear. If an organisation isn’t registered with the ACNC, it will not appear at all.
“It is important that people check the Charity Register to ensure that they are getting accurate and up-to-date information about a charity.” Pascoe also encouraged members of the public to raise any concerns with the ACNC. “Each month we receive around 60 concerns about charities, two-thirds of which come from members of the public,” she said. “In the last financial year we received 930 concerns, a significant increase compared to the 810 we received the year prior. The influx of concerns resulted in around 50 per cent more investigations than the year prior. “The public often provide valuable information that helps the ACNC investigate, and ultimately, revoke a non-compliant charity’s status.”
9 August 2015 - Temple ‘dead in the water,’ says Watson - By ROBERT CRAWFORD, South Coast Register:
http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/3266866/temple-dead-in-the-water-says-watson/?cs=203
The Shaolin Temple at Falls Creek is “dead in the water”, according to Shoalhaven councillor and one of the orchestrators of the project, Greg Watson.
Cr Watson, although not wanting to comment on revelations Abbot Shi Yongxin is under investigation by China’s religious administration following allegations of multiple sexual relations and embezzlement, [China’s top religious body checks ex-monk’s sex and fraud claims - By ROBERT CRAWFORD, South Coast Register, 4 Aug 2015: http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/3257254/chinas-top-religious-body-checks-ex-monks-sex-and-fraud-claims/ ] said as soon as the consent was given by the Planning Assessment Commission (PAC) the project became unviable.
The PAC granted approval for the $380 million Shaolin tourism complex at Comberton Grange but with strict conditions. PAC approved the concept plan but excluded the golf course and residential precincts of the proposal and has advised that the hotel precinct should also be moved.
Cr Watson prefaced his comments, saying he had had “no involvement with Shaolin since 2007”. “My own personal view was the project was dead in the water ever since the PAC consent was issued,” he said. “The consent wasn’t viable even without the current scandals. “Unless it [the project] could introduce some income stream, which was with a limited number of residential dwellings, there was no way you can fund it. “That is the bottom line and has always been the case. “How could you put in a 500 room hotel, primarily aiming at the Asian market, without a golf course? “They all want to play golf.”
Cr Watson said PAC’s decision was an “absolute disgrace”. “The decision PAC made, they might as well just refused it outright,” he said. “The approval they gave made the project unviable. “It’s an absolute disgrace the state government allowed it to happen.”
His views differ from those of Shoalhaven Mayor Joanna Gash, who despite all the controversy facing the abbot earlier this week, said she was confident the project would still go ahead. “People need to understand the abbot is the abbot and the Shaolin Temple Foundation is the Shaolin Temple Foundation, they are separate entities,” she said. “As far as I’m concerned it changes nothing. It is not a Shaolin Foundation issue. It is a private issue for the abbot and those who are investigating it.”
http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/3266866/temple-dead-in-the-water-says-watson/?cs=203
The Shaolin Temple at Falls Creek is “dead in the water”, according to Shoalhaven councillor and one of the orchestrators of the project, Greg Watson.
Cr Watson, although not wanting to comment on revelations Abbot Shi Yongxin is under investigation by China’s religious administration following allegations of multiple sexual relations and embezzlement, [China’s top religious body checks ex-monk’s sex and fraud claims - By ROBERT CRAWFORD, South Coast Register, 4 Aug 2015: http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/3257254/chinas-top-religious-body-checks-ex-monks-sex-and-fraud-claims/ ] said as soon as the consent was given by the Planning Assessment Commission (PAC) the project became unviable.
The PAC granted approval for the $380 million Shaolin tourism complex at Comberton Grange but with strict conditions. PAC approved the concept plan but excluded the golf course and residential precincts of the proposal and has advised that the hotel precinct should also be moved.
Cr Watson prefaced his comments, saying he had had “no involvement with Shaolin since 2007”. “My own personal view was the project was dead in the water ever since the PAC consent was issued,” he said. “The consent wasn’t viable even without the current scandals. “Unless it [the project] could introduce some income stream, which was with a limited number of residential dwellings, there was no way you can fund it. “That is the bottom line and has always been the case. “How could you put in a 500 room hotel, primarily aiming at the Asian market, without a golf course? “They all want to play golf.”
Cr Watson said PAC’s decision was an “absolute disgrace”. “The decision PAC made, they might as well just refused it outright,” he said. “The approval they gave made the project unviable. “It’s an absolute disgrace the state government allowed it to happen.”
His views differ from those of Shoalhaven Mayor Joanna Gash, who despite all the controversy facing the abbot earlier this week, said she was confident the project would still go ahead. “People need to understand the abbot is the abbot and the Shaolin Temple Foundation is the Shaolin Temple Foundation, they are separate entities,” she said. “As far as I’m concerned it changes nothing. It is not a Shaolin Foundation issue. It is a private issue for the abbot and those who are investigating it.”
3 March 2015 - China Exclusive: Shaolin abbot responds to commercialization criticism ShanghaiDaily.com: http://www.shanghaidaily.com/article/article_xinhua.aspx?id=270613 ZHENGZHOU, March 3 (Xinhua) -- The head of China's Shaolin Temple has distanced the Buddhist institution from media criticism claiming a planned Australian outpost of the temple will be over-commercialized.
Abbot Shi Yongxin told Xinhua that Shaolin will develop facilities for meditation, farming and the martial arts for which it is renowned at its "Australian culture center" in southeastern Shoalhaven City.
Australian media has reported that the center, to be built on 1,200 hectares of land bought by Shaolin, will include not only a temple and kungfu academy, but a hotel and a golf course, commercial activity apparently deviating from the spiritual essence of Buddhism.
"Many friends from the media were curious about how the Shaolin Temple could get so much money to build a golf course and a resort hotel. But the investment and planning [for the golf course and hotel] have nothing to do with Shaolin," said Shi, a member of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, the country's top political advisory body, whose annual session opened on Tuesday.
The land has been opened up for lease to investors wishing to build their own developments in addition to those for which Shaolin is responsible, according to the abbot.
"If entrepreneurs see business opportunities and want to build a new community of Sino-Australia cultural cooperation, as long as the Australian government, the public and the investors are willing to do it, I just say it is destiny," he said.
Shaolin has established more than 40 culture centers around the world. Shi claimed his motivation for this expansion is "respecting religion, culture and lifestyle... promoting dialogue about culture and strengthening international understanding and cooperation".
Shi said he expects the center to open next year.
He presented a check for 4.16 million Australian dollars (3.26 million U.S. dollars) to Shoalhaven's mayor on Feb. 23, the first concrete step to establishing Shaolin's first center in Australia.
The Shaolin Temple, built in the late fifth century and located in central China's Henan Province, is the birthplace of Zen Buddhism and the cradle of Chinese kungfu.
Shi became the temple's abbot in 1999. As one of the first Chinese monks to gain an MBA, he has courted controversy for developing business operations including lucrative kungfu shows and merchandise. He is known as the "CEO monk".
Abbot Shi Yongxin told Xinhua that Shaolin will develop facilities for meditation, farming and the martial arts for which it is renowned at its "Australian culture center" in southeastern Shoalhaven City.
Australian media has reported that the center, to be built on 1,200 hectares of land bought by Shaolin, will include not only a temple and kungfu academy, but a hotel and a golf course, commercial activity apparently deviating from the spiritual essence of Buddhism.
"Many friends from the media were curious about how the Shaolin Temple could get so much money to build a golf course and a resort hotel. But the investment and planning [for the golf course and hotel] have nothing to do with Shaolin," said Shi, a member of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, the country's top political advisory body, whose annual session opened on Tuesday.
The land has been opened up for lease to investors wishing to build their own developments in addition to those for which Shaolin is responsible, according to the abbot.
"If entrepreneurs see business opportunities and want to build a new community of Sino-Australia cultural cooperation, as long as the Australian government, the public and the investors are willing to do it, I just say it is destiny," he said.
Shaolin has established more than 40 culture centers around the world. Shi claimed his motivation for this expansion is "respecting religion, culture and lifestyle... promoting dialogue about culture and strengthening international understanding and cooperation".
Shi said he expects the center to open next year.
He presented a check for 4.16 million Australian dollars (3.26 million U.S. dollars) to Shoalhaven's mayor on Feb. 23, the first concrete step to establishing Shaolin's first center in Australia.
The Shaolin Temple, built in the late fifth century and located in central China's Henan Province, is the birthplace of Zen Buddhism and the cradle of Chinese kungfu.
Shi became the temple's abbot in 1999. As one of the first Chinese monks to gain an MBA, he has courted controversy for developing business operations including lucrative kungfu shows and merchandise. He is known as the "CEO monk".
23 Feb 2015 - Update - Abbot presents final cheque to Mayor - South Coast Register: http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/2901673/deal-done-shaolin-abbot-hands-over-the-cheque/?cs=203
23 January 2015 - Shaolin pay up for Comberton Grange land By SIMON BROWN Jan. 23, 2015
South Coast Register: http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/2836564/breaking-news-shaolin-pay-up-for-comberton-grange-land/?cs=203
Right on deadline, Shoalhaven City Council has received a cheque for $5.2 million from the Shaolin Temple Foundation. The money is to purchase the land at Comberton Grange for the eventual construction of a Shaolin Temple Complex.
Shoalhaven Mayor Joanna Gash said she was excited and relieved. “It took this council less than two years to bring this to fruition, even though the project has been eight years in the making.
“I want to pay special attention to Cr Greg Watson, who initiated the project. I know he will be very excited by this news.” Cr Gash also wanted to thank council staff.
“This process has not been easy for them. And great thanks to those councillors who have been so proactive with this project, often against great negativity.
“It’s time now to unite and make sure the project is completed.”
Cr Andrew Guile said the news was exciting. “Now’s the time for the foundation to lodge a development application and see the project through,” he said.
South Coast Register: http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/2836564/breaking-news-shaolin-pay-up-for-comberton-grange-land/?cs=203
Right on deadline, Shoalhaven City Council has received a cheque for $5.2 million from the Shaolin Temple Foundation. The money is to purchase the land at Comberton Grange for the eventual construction of a Shaolin Temple Complex.
Shoalhaven Mayor Joanna Gash said she was excited and relieved. “It took this council less than two years to bring this to fruition, even though the project has been eight years in the making.
“I want to pay special attention to Cr Greg Watson, who initiated the project. I know he will be very excited by this news.” Cr Gash also wanted to thank council staff.
“This process has not been easy for them. And great thanks to those councillors who have been so proactive with this project, often against great negativity.
“It’s time now to unite and make sure the project is completed.”
Cr Andrew Guile said the news was exciting. “Now’s the time for the foundation to lodge a development application and see the project through,” he said.
15 January 2015 - Foreclosure call on sale [of Comberton Grange land]
South Coast Register: http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/2819427/foreclosure-call-on-sale/?cs=203
SHOALHAVEN City Council should repossess Comberton Grange if payment is not forthcoming from Shaolin Temple Foundation on January 23, according to Cr Andrew Guile. “Money on the site has been owed to council for five years. With interest it now comes to $5.2 million.” Cr Guile said the deadline of January 23 was looming, a deadline imposed by the Shaolin Temple Foundation itself. “If payment isn’t forthcoming I’ll put forward a notice of motion to foreclose on the mortgage for the land given the Shaolin Temple Foundation.” Cr Guile said while the project had the backing of Mayor Joanna Gash and her supporters on council he did not think the motion would pass. “But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t do the right thing for the community,” he said. “The site is of great commercial interest and comes with all the appropriate DPI approvals. “Comberton Grange is a valuable asset for the Shoalhaven, and I want it put back on the market.”
Shaolin Temple Foundation representative Patrick Pang said he was disappointed by Cr Guile’s negative attitude. “This is a very, very important community project,” Mr Pang said. “Everybody should get on board and make this happen. The Shaolin Temple is a very important icon in China, and building a complex here will generate a lot of goodwill between Australia and China. “I think it would be good for the media to get onside with this project.”
South Coast Register: http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/2819427/foreclosure-call-on-sale/?cs=203
SHOALHAVEN City Council should repossess Comberton Grange if payment is not forthcoming from Shaolin Temple Foundation on January 23, according to Cr Andrew Guile. “Money on the site has been owed to council for five years. With interest it now comes to $5.2 million.” Cr Guile said the deadline of January 23 was looming, a deadline imposed by the Shaolin Temple Foundation itself. “If payment isn’t forthcoming I’ll put forward a notice of motion to foreclose on the mortgage for the land given the Shaolin Temple Foundation.” Cr Guile said while the project had the backing of Mayor Joanna Gash and her supporters on council he did not think the motion would pass. “But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t do the right thing for the community,” he said. “The site is of great commercial interest and comes with all the appropriate DPI approvals. “Comberton Grange is a valuable asset for the Shoalhaven, and I want it put back on the market.”
Shaolin Temple Foundation representative Patrick Pang said he was disappointed by Cr Guile’s negative attitude. “This is a very, very important community project,” Mr Pang said. “Everybody should get on board and make this happen. The Shaolin Temple is a very important icon in China, and building a complex here will generate a lot of goodwill between Australia and China. “I think it would be good for the media to get onside with this project.”
18 September 2014 - Buddhists don’t condone harm
South Coast Register - Letters - http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/2569967/buddhists-dont-condone-harm/?cs=205
Congratulations to the Planning Assessment Commission on its decision to delete the golf course and 300 residential blocks from the proposed Shaolin temple development. Congratulations also to South Coast MP Shelley Hancock and all those who pointed out the weaknesses of this proposal.
The little I know of Buddhism is the importance of helping others, and not focusing on one’s own pleasures. However, they believe, and Western science now supports this view, that helping others is one of the surest ways to make oneself happy.
Buddhists do not believe that happiness is found in a game of golf, and probably not in a four-star hotel. Buddhists would also be mortified if their conscious behaviour resulted in harm to other beings – as would be the case with any polluting development.
So if this was truly a development for the training and sharing of Buddhism or Buddhist martial arts, it would logically aspire to minimal destruction of the natural environment; and it would not value luxury accommodation.
P. Davidson, Huskisson.
South Coast Register - Letters - http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/2569967/buddhists-dont-condone-harm/?cs=205
Congratulations to the Planning Assessment Commission on its decision to delete the golf course and 300 residential blocks from the proposed Shaolin temple development. Congratulations also to South Coast MP Shelley Hancock and all those who pointed out the weaknesses of this proposal.
The little I know of Buddhism is the importance of helping others, and not focusing on one’s own pleasures. However, they believe, and Western science now supports this view, that helping others is one of the surest ways to make oneself happy.
Buddhists do not believe that happiness is found in a game of golf, and probably not in a four-star hotel. Buddhists would also be mortified if their conscious behaviour resulted in harm to other beings – as would be the case with any polluting development.
So if this was truly a development for the training and sharing of Buddhism or Buddhist martial arts, it would logically aspire to minimal destruction of the natural environment; and it would not value luxury accommodation.
P. Davidson, Huskisson.
16 September 2014 - Mayor & Deputy Flying To China To Discuss Temple
Radio 2ST: http://www.2st.com.au/news/shoalhaven-news/80581-mayor-deputy-flying-to-china-to-discuss-temple
In a bid to get the Shoalhaven's $360 million Shaolin temple project back on track Mayor Jo Gash and Deputy John Wells will be flying to China next month, but stress they will be paying their own airfares.
Earlier this month the Planning Assessment Commission approved the Falls Creek project, but with the deletion of a residential estate and a golf course.
Shaolin Foundation spokesman Patrick Pang met with Mayor Gash earlier this week, giving an assurance the project will proceed, despite the rejection of two of the key components.
The foundation has paid a half million dollar deposit for the Comberton Grange property, and has promised to pay the $4.5 million balance within three months.
Mayor Gash and Cr Wells plan to spend about a week in China in mid October and will be meeting with Shaolin chief Abbott Shi Yongxin in a bid to set a timeframe for the development of the project.
Radio 2ST: http://www.2st.com.au/news/shoalhaven-news/80581-mayor-deputy-flying-to-china-to-discuss-temple
In a bid to get the Shoalhaven's $360 million Shaolin temple project back on track Mayor Jo Gash and Deputy John Wells will be flying to China next month, but stress they will be paying their own airfares.
Earlier this month the Planning Assessment Commission approved the Falls Creek project, but with the deletion of a residential estate and a golf course.
Shaolin Foundation spokesman Patrick Pang met with Mayor Gash earlier this week, giving an assurance the project will proceed, despite the rejection of two of the key components.
The foundation has paid a half million dollar deposit for the Comberton Grange property, and has promised to pay the $4.5 million balance within three months.
Mayor Gash and Cr Wells plan to spend about a week in China in mid October and will be meeting with Shaolin chief Abbott Shi Yongxin in a bid to set a timeframe for the development of the project.
8 September 2014 - Shaolin temple approved with strict conditions By ROBERT CRAWFORD South Coast Register: http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/2544300/shaolin-temple-approved-but-not-the-houses-or-golf-course/?cs=203 [bolds by HWCV]
The Planning Assessment Commission has granted approval for the $360 million Shaolin tourism complex at Comberton Grange but with strict conditions.
PAC has approved the concept plan but has excluded the golf course and residential precincts of the proposal and has advised that the hotel precinct should also be moved.
In their report PAC commission chair Donna Campbell and members Richard Thorp and David Johnson said the golf course was deleted due to the potential risk it poses to water quality in the longer term and the residential precincts, featuring 300 dwellings, were not considered integral to the tourist development.
They said it could lead to, in time, the creation of an urban settlement contrary to the recommendation of the South Coast Sensitive Urban Lands review. Approval wasn’t given for the removal of 34.5 hectares of habitat corridor as defined under the Jervis Bay Corridor REP, with the commission saying with the deletion of the golf course and relocation of the hotel precinct there is no need to remove the vegetation in the corridor. It also limited the scale of the village centre and linking it to the tourist development.
While the golf course and residential dwellings were not supported by the commission, it did consider the development of the Shaolin Temple and associated health and educational facilities will bring cultural and economic benefits to the area.
PAC also recommended that Shoalhaven City Council remain at arm’s length from future development applications associated with the project, saying future applications should be independently assessed to ensure transparency and allay concerns in the community regarding potential conflict of interest regarding council’s interest in the project.
The commission noted that future DAs will be determined by the Southern Joint Regional Planning Panel.
Shoalhaven Mayor Joanna Gash has launched a scathing attack on PAC’s decision, saying council actually had to explain the proposal to the committee. “I’m extremely frustrated and disappointed,” she said. “I’m disappointed at the attitude of the Planning Assessment Commission panel, who throughout the whole approval process, there was not one stage in which they fully grasped what the whole project was about. “The three people on the committee really didn’t understand what a Shaolin Temple was. We actually had to explain it to them.” She said she didn’t know how the concept plan approval with major modifications, would affect the proposal. “Taking the golf course and the residential housing out of the project, I don’t know what that will do with the proposal,” she said. “It may be a game stopper, I don’t know.”
Cr Gash said she hopes the temple will go ahead and council was investigating if there might be room for modifications. “This was a significant innovative, expression for the whole of the city, certainly the region and NSW,” she said. “We have the premier overseas in China promoting tourism. “The state government approved Mr Packer’s Barangaroo proposal in six months, this has been dragging on for eight or nine years. “Council signed off on this, so did the State Planning Department and the State Planning Minister, how much higher up the tree do we have to go? “If there were concerns they should have told us at the beginning.”
Mrs Gash has spoken to Patrick Pang from the Shaolin Foundation but would not comment on the conversation. Mr Pang is currently overseas, with Mrs Gash saying she will meet with him in the Shoalhaven next Monday.
Cr Andrew Guile said the decision was an indictment of the way council had handled the issue. “This whatever-it-takes attitude to getting a development across the line is outdated and out of step with what the community expects,” he said.
Shaolin Foundation spokesman Phil Balding was unavailable for comment. Mr Balding said recently the foundation would pull out of the development if further obstacles were placed in its way.
Long standing advocate for the development, Cr Greg Watson said he couldn't second guess how the Shaolin Foundation would react. "The determination in my personal view is a Clayton’s approval which is an approval aimed at the project not proceeding," Cr Watson said. "It’s put paid to the concept of NSW being open for business and I believe will provide a major embarrassment for the Premier who is in China at the moment touting for Chinese tourism." Cr Watson defended council's conduct in promoting the project. "I don’t think council’s ever had a conflict of interest in terms of earning money from the project. It's always driven by jobs creation. Making money out of the land hasn’t been a prime objective."
The Planning Assessment Commission has granted approval for the $360 million Shaolin tourism complex at Comberton Grange but with strict conditions.
PAC has approved the concept plan but has excluded the golf course and residential precincts of the proposal and has advised that the hotel precinct should also be moved.
In their report PAC commission chair Donna Campbell and members Richard Thorp and David Johnson said the golf course was deleted due to the potential risk it poses to water quality in the longer term and the residential precincts, featuring 300 dwellings, were not considered integral to the tourist development.
They said it could lead to, in time, the creation of an urban settlement contrary to the recommendation of the South Coast Sensitive Urban Lands review. Approval wasn’t given for the removal of 34.5 hectares of habitat corridor as defined under the Jervis Bay Corridor REP, with the commission saying with the deletion of the golf course and relocation of the hotel precinct there is no need to remove the vegetation in the corridor. It also limited the scale of the village centre and linking it to the tourist development.
While the golf course and residential dwellings were not supported by the commission, it did consider the development of the Shaolin Temple and associated health and educational facilities will bring cultural and economic benefits to the area.
PAC also recommended that Shoalhaven City Council remain at arm’s length from future development applications associated with the project, saying future applications should be independently assessed to ensure transparency and allay concerns in the community regarding potential conflict of interest regarding council’s interest in the project.
The commission noted that future DAs will be determined by the Southern Joint Regional Planning Panel.
Shoalhaven Mayor Joanna Gash has launched a scathing attack on PAC’s decision, saying council actually had to explain the proposal to the committee. “I’m extremely frustrated and disappointed,” she said. “I’m disappointed at the attitude of the Planning Assessment Commission panel, who throughout the whole approval process, there was not one stage in which they fully grasped what the whole project was about. “The three people on the committee really didn’t understand what a Shaolin Temple was. We actually had to explain it to them.” She said she didn’t know how the concept plan approval with major modifications, would affect the proposal. “Taking the golf course and the residential housing out of the project, I don’t know what that will do with the proposal,” she said. “It may be a game stopper, I don’t know.”
Cr Gash said she hopes the temple will go ahead and council was investigating if there might be room for modifications. “This was a significant innovative, expression for the whole of the city, certainly the region and NSW,” she said. “We have the premier overseas in China promoting tourism. “The state government approved Mr Packer’s Barangaroo proposal in six months, this has been dragging on for eight or nine years. “Council signed off on this, so did the State Planning Department and the State Planning Minister, how much higher up the tree do we have to go? “If there were concerns they should have told us at the beginning.”
Mrs Gash has spoken to Patrick Pang from the Shaolin Foundation but would not comment on the conversation. Mr Pang is currently overseas, with Mrs Gash saying she will meet with him in the Shoalhaven next Monday.
Cr Andrew Guile said the decision was an indictment of the way council had handled the issue. “This whatever-it-takes attitude to getting a development across the line is outdated and out of step with what the community expects,” he said.
Shaolin Foundation spokesman Phil Balding was unavailable for comment. Mr Balding said recently the foundation would pull out of the development if further obstacles were placed in its way.
Long standing advocate for the development, Cr Greg Watson said he couldn't second guess how the Shaolin Foundation would react. "The determination in my personal view is a Clayton’s approval which is an approval aimed at the project not proceeding," Cr Watson said. "It’s put paid to the concept of NSW being open for business and I believe will provide a major embarrassment for the Premier who is in China at the moment touting for Chinese tourism." Cr Watson defended council's conduct in promoting the project. "I don’t think council’s ever had a conflict of interest in terms of earning money from the project. It's always driven by jobs creation. Making money out of the land hasn’t been a prime objective."
28 August 2014 - Shaolin complex will harm creek
South Coast Register - Letters: http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/2521334/shaolin-complex-will-harm-creek/?cs=205
The Shaolin tourist and residential development at Comberton Grange will be an ecological disaster.
A water management report commissioned by the developer states their removal and retention standards to trap litter bigger than 5mm is 90 per cent.
This means 10 per cent of litter bigger than 5mm will go into Currambene Creek. For fine sediment, it’s 50 per cent. This means 50 per cent of soil – which is identified as having high erosion potential – can go into Currambene Creek.
For hydrocarbons, it’s 70 per cent, so 30 per cent into the creek. Phosphorus and nitrogen is 45 per cent, so a staggering 55 per cent will go into the creek. And this is with a 27-hole golf course and how many tonnes of fertiliser?
The report also states the development will require a sewage pumping station, which is not identified on the plan. Nor is the placement of the stormwater outlets that will pump all this crap into our pristine waterway.
In the same report the maximum rain event is 12 hours and there is no data on quantity of rain (mm per hour). The east coast low that hit the area in 2012 delivered 275mm over seven days and flooded parts of Nowra and Woollamia.
This is not good enough for our environment, the residents or the hundreds of thousands of people that flock to Jervis Bay every year. Algal blooms and silt will smother the fish nurseries that make Jervis Bay a recreational fisher’s dream. So all the fisherfolk will have to find somewhere else to go. This development must not be allowed to proceed.
M. Curtis, Woollamia.
24 August 2014 - I share Phil’s frustration
South Coast Register - Letters: http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/2509570/i-share-phils-frustration/?cs=205
So Phil Balding is frustrated with Shoalhaven City Council (‘Foundation secretary fears Shaolin is losing patience’ August 20).
He is not the only one. My husband and I are paying more rates each year despite a drop in land value over the same period to a council constantly complaining about having no money who although having “sold” the Comberton Grange property have only apparently received a paltry deposit, waived interest payments on the principal and presumably received no rates at all from the new owner.
Unlike Mr Balding I am glad that some individuals and groups spend their own time and effort attempting to ensure that we do not end up like the Chinese, whose own country is one of the most overpopulated, polluted and environmentally degraded in the world. I am glad that things don’t happen here like they do in China.
Mr Balding should also not reject 11 community representatives out of a population of 30,000 as this is roughly 2,727 people per representative compared to an average 156,667 Australians per House of Representative member in the federal parliament, for example, which brings me to Ann Sudmalis and her assertions as to the nature of people opposed to this development (‘Shaolin opponents hold region back’, August 20).
I am neither narrow minded nor disregarding of the local economy and find it offensive that an elected member who is supposed to represent all constituents makes accusations as to the nature of people in the community. It is the same as suggesting that all politicians only see growth in bricks and cement and what can be achieved for developers.
I would like to see sustainable growth based on the beauty and nature in the Shoalhaven as that is what we have to offer. The council by now could have built its own ecotourism centre on the same site.
If Currambene Creek and Jervis Bay are ruined then that will outweigh any dubious economic benefit of the proposed development.
I say, “Go, Kiama, it is all yours.”
R. Roper, Woollamia.
14 November 2009 [an older article, but still relevant] - Alarm at the sound of one hand upsizing
Paul Bibby URBAN AFFAIRS - Sydney Morning Herald: http://www.moviesforsale.com.au/movies-for-sale-articles/2009/11/14/alarm-at-the-sound-of-one-hand-upsizing/
The Shaolin monks of central China are not known for their work as property developers. Incredible kung fu feats depicted in dubbed Hollywood movies are their main claim to fame. So it came as a surprise when the monks announced in 2006 that they were buying a 1248-hectare paddock in South Nowra. The site was going to become a Shaolin village, where 150,000 tourists a year would flock to watch trainee monks put through their paces, before retiring to a luxury hotel.
But as more detail emerges about the size of the proposal, the apparent lack of financial backing and the remarkable generosity of Shoalhaven Council, some on the South Coast are asking whether the Shaolin village is a front for a residential project designed to fill the pockets of property developers. "You don't have to look any further than their original plans," the former independent MP for South Coast, John Hatton, said.
"Five hundred houses for sale, plus 350 villas for elderly residents and a 27-hole golf course �� does that sound like a Shaolin village? Do they really think hundreds of thousands of people will travel to the South Coast to go there? "So blatantly out of character was the proposal, that when the monks made their first request for it to be fast-tracked as a "state-significant site" by the government, the then planning minister, Frank Sartor, was forced to refuse.
"There were a number of developments around the state which seemed to be Trojan horses, where, hidden behind a golf course, there were subdivisions in the order of a thousand dwellings," Mr Sartor said. "In the Shaolin case I could see there was a tourist component. I invited them to bring in professional planners and architects, but the fact that it took them some time to do that made me wary." Mr Sartor eventually accepted the Shaolin village as a site of state significance, but not before the Department of Planning demanded that they halve the number of residential dwellings �� knocking $350 million off the project's value.
A property developer, Landerer & Company, ended its association with the project soon after, and the monks appeared to flounder, failing to repay the remaining $4.75 million owed to Shoalhaven Council for the purchase of the land. It was only the generosity of the council �� granting the monks a repayment scheme with a 3.25 per cent interest rate �� that prevented the development from falling over. [Council subsequently deferred the requirement for the interest repayments]
The co-director of the Shaolin Temple Foundation, Patrick Pang, conceded that the project still lacked major financial backing, but said it deserved community support. "There is a misconception about the residential thing," he said. "We were told by the tourism authority that the project would not work just as a tourism development �� that it needed a residential component to be viable. Once this is built people will come from all over the world."
South Coast Register - Letters: http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/2521334/shaolin-complex-will-harm-creek/?cs=205
The Shaolin tourist and residential development at Comberton Grange will be an ecological disaster.
A water management report commissioned by the developer states their removal and retention standards to trap litter bigger than 5mm is 90 per cent.
This means 10 per cent of litter bigger than 5mm will go into Currambene Creek. For fine sediment, it’s 50 per cent. This means 50 per cent of soil – which is identified as having high erosion potential – can go into Currambene Creek.
For hydrocarbons, it’s 70 per cent, so 30 per cent into the creek. Phosphorus and nitrogen is 45 per cent, so a staggering 55 per cent will go into the creek. And this is with a 27-hole golf course and how many tonnes of fertiliser?
The report also states the development will require a sewage pumping station, which is not identified on the plan. Nor is the placement of the stormwater outlets that will pump all this crap into our pristine waterway.
In the same report the maximum rain event is 12 hours and there is no data on quantity of rain (mm per hour). The east coast low that hit the area in 2012 delivered 275mm over seven days and flooded parts of Nowra and Woollamia.
This is not good enough for our environment, the residents or the hundreds of thousands of people that flock to Jervis Bay every year. Algal blooms and silt will smother the fish nurseries that make Jervis Bay a recreational fisher’s dream. So all the fisherfolk will have to find somewhere else to go. This development must not be allowed to proceed.
M. Curtis, Woollamia.
24 August 2014 - I share Phil’s frustration
South Coast Register - Letters: http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/2509570/i-share-phils-frustration/?cs=205
So Phil Balding is frustrated with Shoalhaven City Council (‘Foundation secretary fears Shaolin is losing patience’ August 20).
He is not the only one. My husband and I are paying more rates each year despite a drop in land value over the same period to a council constantly complaining about having no money who although having “sold” the Comberton Grange property have only apparently received a paltry deposit, waived interest payments on the principal and presumably received no rates at all from the new owner.
Unlike Mr Balding I am glad that some individuals and groups spend their own time and effort attempting to ensure that we do not end up like the Chinese, whose own country is one of the most overpopulated, polluted and environmentally degraded in the world. I am glad that things don’t happen here like they do in China.
Mr Balding should also not reject 11 community representatives out of a population of 30,000 as this is roughly 2,727 people per representative compared to an average 156,667 Australians per House of Representative member in the federal parliament, for example, which brings me to Ann Sudmalis and her assertions as to the nature of people opposed to this development (‘Shaolin opponents hold region back’, August 20).
I am neither narrow minded nor disregarding of the local economy and find it offensive that an elected member who is supposed to represent all constituents makes accusations as to the nature of people in the community. It is the same as suggesting that all politicians only see growth in bricks and cement and what can be achieved for developers.
I would like to see sustainable growth based on the beauty and nature in the Shoalhaven as that is what we have to offer. The council by now could have built its own ecotourism centre on the same site.
If Currambene Creek and Jervis Bay are ruined then that will outweigh any dubious economic benefit of the proposed development.
I say, “Go, Kiama, it is all yours.”
R. Roper, Woollamia.
14 November 2009 [an older article, but still relevant] - Alarm at the sound of one hand upsizing
Paul Bibby URBAN AFFAIRS - Sydney Morning Herald: http://www.moviesforsale.com.au/movies-for-sale-articles/2009/11/14/alarm-at-the-sound-of-one-hand-upsizing/
The Shaolin monks of central China are not known for their work as property developers. Incredible kung fu feats depicted in dubbed Hollywood movies are their main claim to fame. So it came as a surprise when the monks announced in 2006 that they were buying a 1248-hectare paddock in South Nowra. The site was going to become a Shaolin village, where 150,000 tourists a year would flock to watch trainee monks put through their paces, before retiring to a luxury hotel.
But as more detail emerges about the size of the proposal, the apparent lack of financial backing and the remarkable generosity of Shoalhaven Council, some on the South Coast are asking whether the Shaolin village is a front for a residential project designed to fill the pockets of property developers. "You don't have to look any further than their original plans," the former independent MP for South Coast, John Hatton, said.
"Five hundred houses for sale, plus 350 villas for elderly residents and a 27-hole golf course �� does that sound like a Shaolin village? Do they really think hundreds of thousands of people will travel to the South Coast to go there? "So blatantly out of character was the proposal, that when the monks made their first request for it to be fast-tracked as a "state-significant site" by the government, the then planning minister, Frank Sartor, was forced to refuse.
"There were a number of developments around the state which seemed to be Trojan horses, where, hidden behind a golf course, there were subdivisions in the order of a thousand dwellings," Mr Sartor said. "In the Shaolin case I could see there was a tourist component. I invited them to bring in professional planners and architects, but the fact that it took them some time to do that made me wary." Mr Sartor eventually accepted the Shaolin village as a site of state significance, but not before the Department of Planning demanded that they halve the number of residential dwellings �� knocking $350 million off the project's value.
A property developer, Landerer & Company, ended its association with the project soon after, and the monks appeared to flounder, failing to repay the remaining $4.75 million owed to Shoalhaven Council for the purchase of the land. It was only the generosity of the council �� granting the monks a repayment scheme with a 3.25 per cent interest rate �� that prevented the development from falling over. [Council subsequently deferred the requirement for the interest repayments]
The co-director of the Shaolin Temple Foundation, Patrick Pang, conceded that the project still lacked major financial backing, but said it deserved community support. "There is a misconception about the residential thing," he said. "We were told by the tourism authority that the project would not work just as a tourism development �� that it needed a residential component to be viable. Once this is built people will come from all over the world."
(Anti-Temple opinion) 21 August 2014 - Sudmalis has it all wrong
South Coast Register - Letters: ttp://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/2504989/sudmalis-has-it-all-wrong/?cs=205
I WOULD like to comment on Ann Sudmalis’s letter to the editor, as well as her 2ST radio interview.
People of Shoalhaven opposed to the Shaolin development are not against Buddhism or Chinese people as you have suggested. They could be Africans, or Danish or Americans for that matter – we do not care. But we care about ratepayers’ money being used under inaccurate job creation promises.
At the beginning there were talks about creating over 3000 jobs – then over 2000 and, later, 1000 and now about 50 jobs and in some years to come maybe another 200.
Council has sold the land with a quarry and the quarry licence for peanuts. Of course, we are still waiting for the full payment. Did Shoalhaven residents benefit from that? The answer is no.
As we all know the Shaolin temple will be built first on the land in a traditional Chinese method (without nails, etc.) by Chinese tradesman familiar with this technique. Will Shoalhaven people get those jobs? No. Will Shoalhaven people work at the temple? No, monks only. Would they work at proposed school? No. Chinese students are required to help. Would they work as a herbalists etc.? No. Would they work in local shops and cafes? Yes, but they have to speak Mandarin. How many locals can do that? Please note that none of the Shoalhaven schools teach Mandarin.
Local golf courses are rather struggling financially. Would the buses coming from Sydney with Chinese tourists be visiting our golf courses? No. They will have their own. If any run-off from this golf course affects the quality of Currumbene and Jervis Bay waters there will be no tourists swimming in the bay, no business for diving, dolphin and whale watching.
So where are the economic benefits for the region? Oh, there is one more thing – they will not be paying any taxes since Shaolin is a religious organisation.
K. Nilsson, Old Erowal Bay.
(Pro-Temple opinion) 20 August 2014 - Shaolin opponents hold region back
South Coast Register - Letters: http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/2500892/shaolin-opponents-hold-region-back/?cs=205
I WRITE this letter to show my absolute support for the Shaolin complex.
Just last week, the unemployment rate for our region jumped. There is absolutely no question that we need more local jobs, more local development, and more economic support for our region.
For those people who have commented negatively about consultation (which has been part of the process to date), about the lack of studies (which are all completed), and about the impact of religion (where is their steadfast confidence in their own faith?), where is the compassion for local contractors, workers, and potential employment for our youth?
This narrow-minded resistance to sensitive, planned and long-term investment in our own backyard really must change.
Nowra and the Shoalhaven in its entirety need to examine their sense of future for our community.
This development is part of the process of putting the Shoalhaven on the map, and finally kick-starting our economic recovery.
In discussions with some members of our indigenous community, there could also be a chance to showcase our local cultural heritage.
Don’t squander this unique opportunity to present two ancient cultures side by side in this wonderful region.
Those who oppose this development clearly have no regard for the economic future of their own community.
A. Sudmalis, Member for Gilmore.
South Coast Register - Letters: ttp://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/2504989/sudmalis-has-it-all-wrong/?cs=205
I WOULD like to comment on Ann Sudmalis’s letter to the editor, as well as her 2ST radio interview.
People of Shoalhaven opposed to the Shaolin development are not against Buddhism or Chinese people as you have suggested. They could be Africans, or Danish or Americans for that matter – we do not care. But we care about ratepayers’ money being used under inaccurate job creation promises.
At the beginning there were talks about creating over 3000 jobs – then over 2000 and, later, 1000 and now about 50 jobs and in some years to come maybe another 200.
Council has sold the land with a quarry and the quarry licence for peanuts. Of course, we are still waiting for the full payment. Did Shoalhaven residents benefit from that? The answer is no.
As we all know the Shaolin temple will be built first on the land in a traditional Chinese method (without nails, etc.) by Chinese tradesman familiar with this technique. Will Shoalhaven people get those jobs? No. Will Shoalhaven people work at the temple? No, monks only. Would they work at proposed school? No. Chinese students are required to help. Would they work as a herbalists etc.? No. Would they work in local shops and cafes? Yes, but they have to speak Mandarin. How many locals can do that? Please note that none of the Shoalhaven schools teach Mandarin.
Local golf courses are rather struggling financially. Would the buses coming from Sydney with Chinese tourists be visiting our golf courses? No. They will have their own. If any run-off from this golf course affects the quality of Currumbene and Jervis Bay waters there will be no tourists swimming in the bay, no business for diving, dolphin and whale watching.
So where are the economic benefits for the region? Oh, there is one more thing – they will not be paying any taxes since Shaolin is a religious organisation.
K. Nilsson, Old Erowal Bay.
(Pro-Temple opinion) 20 August 2014 - Shaolin opponents hold region back
South Coast Register - Letters: http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/2500892/shaolin-opponents-hold-region-back/?cs=205
I WRITE this letter to show my absolute support for the Shaolin complex.
Just last week, the unemployment rate for our region jumped. There is absolutely no question that we need more local jobs, more local development, and more economic support for our region.
For those people who have commented negatively about consultation (which has been part of the process to date), about the lack of studies (which are all completed), and about the impact of religion (where is their steadfast confidence in their own faith?), where is the compassion for local contractors, workers, and potential employment for our youth?
This narrow-minded resistance to sensitive, planned and long-term investment in our own backyard really must change.
Nowra and the Shoalhaven in its entirety need to examine their sense of future for our community.
This development is part of the process of putting the Shoalhaven on the map, and finally kick-starting our economic recovery.
In discussions with some members of our indigenous community, there could also be a chance to showcase our local cultural heritage.
Don’t squander this unique opportunity to present two ancient cultures side by side in this wonderful region.
Those who oppose this development clearly have no regard for the economic future of their own community.
A. Sudmalis, Member for Gilmore.
13 August 2014 - PAC (NSW Planning Assessment Commission) public meeting on the Shaolin Temple proposal, at 10am, Archer Resort, Princes Hwy, Nowra, need to register to speak - contact: Miss Rebecca Chungue on (02) 9383 2112 by 1:00pm, Friday 8 August 2014.
The PAC will comprise: Ms Donna Campbell (chair), Mr David Johnson and Ms Abigail Goldberg. The NSW DoP&E (Department of Planning & Environment) will hear public views on the Departments Assessment Report and recommendation, prior to determining the proposal. This will be the final opportunity for the public.
Links: www.pac.nsw.gov.au (Refce: D307-14) ; http://majorprojects.planning.nsw.gov.au (Refce: 06_0135)
PAC Contact: Naomi Cleaves on tel: 02 9383 2105 ; email: pac@pac.nsw.gov.au
3 July 2014 - Shaolin complex will be a gated community
By ROBERT CRAWFORD, South Coast Register: http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/2393714/shaolin-complex-will-be-a-gated-community/?cs=203
The long-talked about $360 million Shaolin complex development, south of Nowra, has been described as a “gated community” which will attract predominantly Chinese nationals, whose lives will be determined by the Shaolin Foundation. A report in response to Environmental Assessment Submissions by consultants Conybeare Morrison for the proposed tourist and residential development at Comberton Grange has cast doubts the project will have the major spin-off for the Shoalhaven, as is often touted. In the report the consultants said the residential component would attract predominantly Chinese nationals wishing to live or retire in a precinct with an Asian culture, or Australian Chinese-Australian retirees seeking a retirement opportunity in a “gated” community that provided specific attractions and care.
“Residents are not likely to have work commitments in Nowra or the surrounding area,” the report said.
“As the development is under one ownership (the Shaolin Foundation), the foundation has the right to determine the overall mix of residential occupancy in the development.” The report said the “predominant marketing aim of the development” was to cater to specific senior and ethnic groups, with accompanying services and lifestyle provision.
The precise nature of the development was an integrated Buddhist tourist and residential development, with residential a minor component. The report assumed that 50 per cent of shop owners within the complex would probably be Chinese and would live within the development, raising questions about how the proposal might benefit the local community if the Shaolin Foundation decided who lives in the complex.
The number of retail staff is estimated to be 100 in stage one and 400 in the ultimate development. The $360 million proposal comprises a Buddhist temple sanctuary complex, kung-fu academy, 500-bed four-star hotel, commercial shopping precinct and community centre and permanent housing residential development for the Falls Creek area. Over the years there have been promises of thousands of jobs for the area as a result of the project.
In 2012 when the plans went on public exhibition it included suggestions about 1000 people would be employed to build the project’s many facilities and even more jobs were expected to be created once construction was finished, with about 1300 positions catering for a predicted 150,000 visitors a year.
Shoalhaven Mayor Joanna Gash confirmed the proposal would pay rates to Shoalhaven City Council.
2 July 2014 - Shaolin concept plans to be lodged
By ROBERT CRAWFORD, South Coast Register: http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/2391466/shaolin-concept-plans-to-be-lodged/?cs=203
Shoalhaven Mayor Joanna Gash is hopeful concept plans for the $360 million Shaolin complex proposal will be lodged with the Planning Assessment Commission by Friday. “We have been pushing the State Department of Planning to get the concept plan through and we are hopeful that it will be finally lodged on Friday,” Cr Gash said. “I spoke to Chris Wilson from the department on Tuesday and was assured it would be in by Friday for PAC to decide. “I’m still very positive about the whole thing. “Once it is lodged with PAC it could take between four and six weeks for a decision.” She said PAC would come to the area and hold community consultations to hear any concerns.......
The PAC will comprise: Ms Donna Campbell (chair), Mr David Johnson and Ms Abigail Goldberg. The NSW DoP&E (Department of Planning & Environment) will hear public views on the Departments Assessment Report and recommendation, prior to determining the proposal. This will be the final opportunity for the public.
Links: www.pac.nsw.gov.au (Refce: D307-14) ; http://majorprojects.planning.nsw.gov.au (Refce: 06_0135)
PAC Contact: Naomi Cleaves on tel: 02 9383 2105 ; email: pac@pac.nsw.gov.au
3 July 2014 - Shaolin complex will be a gated community
By ROBERT CRAWFORD, South Coast Register: http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/2393714/shaolin-complex-will-be-a-gated-community/?cs=203
The long-talked about $360 million Shaolin complex development, south of Nowra, has been described as a “gated community” which will attract predominantly Chinese nationals, whose lives will be determined by the Shaolin Foundation. A report in response to Environmental Assessment Submissions by consultants Conybeare Morrison for the proposed tourist and residential development at Comberton Grange has cast doubts the project will have the major spin-off for the Shoalhaven, as is often touted. In the report the consultants said the residential component would attract predominantly Chinese nationals wishing to live or retire in a precinct with an Asian culture, or Australian Chinese-Australian retirees seeking a retirement opportunity in a “gated” community that provided specific attractions and care.
“Residents are not likely to have work commitments in Nowra or the surrounding area,” the report said.
“As the development is under one ownership (the Shaolin Foundation), the foundation has the right to determine the overall mix of residential occupancy in the development.” The report said the “predominant marketing aim of the development” was to cater to specific senior and ethnic groups, with accompanying services and lifestyle provision.
The precise nature of the development was an integrated Buddhist tourist and residential development, with residential a minor component. The report assumed that 50 per cent of shop owners within the complex would probably be Chinese and would live within the development, raising questions about how the proposal might benefit the local community if the Shaolin Foundation decided who lives in the complex.
The number of retail staff is estimated to be 100 in stage one and 400 in the ultimate development. The $360 million proposal comprises a Buddhist temple sanctuary complex, kung-fu academy, 500-bed four-star hotel, commercial shopping precinct and community centre and permanent housing residential development for the Falls Creek area. Over the years there have been promises of thousands of jobs for the area as a result of the project.
In 2012 when the plans went on public exhibition it included suggestions about 1000 people would be employed to build the project’s many facilities and even more jobs were expected to be created once construction was finished, with about 1300 positions catering for a predicted 150,000 visitors a year.
Shoalhaven Mayor Joanna Gash confirmed the proposal would pay rates to Shoalhaven City Council.
2 July 2014 - Shaolin concept plans to be lodged
By ROBERT CRAWFORD, South Coast Register: http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/2391466/shaolin-concept-plans-to-be-lodged/?cs=203
Shoalhaven Mayor Joanna Gash is hopeful concept plans for the $360 million Shaolin complex proposal will be lodged with the Planning Assessment Commission by Friday. “We have been pushing the State Department of Planning to get the concept plan through and we are hopeful that it will be finally lodged on Friday,” Cr Gash said. “I spoke to Chris Wilson from the department on Tuesday and was assured it would be in by Friday for PAC to decide. “I’m still very positive about the whole thing. “Once it is lodged with PAC it could take between four and six weeks for a decision.” She said PAC would come to the area and hold community consultations to hear any concerns.......
27 June 2014 - Temple developer gets another interest-free year
By JOHN HANSCOMBE, South Coast Register: http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/2380890/temple-developer-gets-another-interest-free-year/?cs=203
The developer behind the Shaolin temple project will enjoy another year-long interest holiday on the land at Comberton Grange it is buying from Shoalhaven City Council. Council voted on Thursday night to waive interest payments on the $5 million loan it provided for the developer to buy the land until June 30, 2015, a decision slammed by Cr Andrew Guile.
“Shoalhaven City Council has clearly crossed the line when it comes to responsible management of public funds,” Cr Guile said. “This amounts to an extra loan of $295,000 which would mean a total debt to council in 12 months' time of over $5.3 million. Council's sweetheart deal for this developer just keeps getting better.”
Cr Guile said he was also dismayed when, under questioning, general manager Russ Pigg conceded that should the temple deal fall over or not proceed for any reason, the chances of recovering the outstanding interest payments were virtually zero. “Clearly this $360 million project would provide an economic stimulus for the local economy but it now seems that the Mayor and most councillors are being led blind by a developer that either cannot or will not perform under the cosy contracts set up in 2007. “How can we have any confidence that a development of this size and scale is likely to proceed when its backers can't even service the property loan with an interest rate of under 2.7 per cent?" he said.
Shoalhaven Mayor Joanna Gash she was comfortable with the arrangement. “We’ve had legal advice and have been assured we are doing the right thing,” Cr Gash said. “I’m very comfortable with the way the general manager has acted. Council has been informed the whole time. “It’s a case of what Cr Guile thinks and what council thinks. The reason I’m positive is that I don’t want to see a development like this go past.” Cr Gash said if the mortgage fell through council had the ability to get the land back. Council would also retain the $250,000 deposit plus $639,000 in interest already paid. Council is still financially better off now," she said.
South Coast Register, Comments - Andrew Guile • 21 hours ago
Obviously the Mayor hasn't bothered to read the legal advice because it says nothing about whether we are doing the right thing in relation to extending the terms or waiving the interest. Just shows the lack of understanding of commerciality with regard to this whole issue. I'm sure the Mayor is very comfortable with how the GM has acted because he is acting according to her instructions. His admissions that no due diligence has been done on the developer as to their capacity to pay the interest suggests that he might understand how open Council is to losing it all.
By JOHN HANSCOMBE, South Coast Register: http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/2380890/temple-developer-gets-another-interest-free-year/?cs=203
The developer behind the Shaolin temple project will enjoy another year-long interest holiday on the land at Comberton Grange it is buying from Shoalhaven City Council. Council voted on Thursday night to waive interest payments on the $5 million loan it provided for the developer to buy the land until June 30, 2015, a decision slammed by Cr Andrew Guile.
“Shoalhaven City Council has clearly crossed the line when it comes to responsible management of public funds,” Cr Guile said. “This amounts to an extra loan of $295,000 which would mean a total debt to council in 12 months' time of over $5.3 million. Council's sweetheart deal for this developer just keeps getting better.”
Cr Guile said he was also dismayed when, under questioning, general manager Russ Pigg conceded that should the temple deal fall over or not proceed for any reason, the chances of recovering the outstanding interest payments were virtually zero. “Clearly this $360 million project would provide an economic stimulus for the local economy but it now seems that the Mayor and most councillors are being led blind by a developer that either cannot or will not perform under the cosy contracts set up in 2007. “How can we have any confidence that a development of this size and scale is likely to proceed when its backers can't even service the property loan with an interest rate of under 2.7 per cent?" he said.
Shoalhaven Mayor Joanna Gash she was comfortable with the arrangement. “We’ve had legal advice and have been assured we are doing the right thing,” Cr Gash said. “I’m very comfortable with the way the general manager has acted. Council has been informed the whole time. “It’s a case of what Cr Guile thinks and what council thinks. The reason I’m positive is that I don’t want to see a development like this go past.” Cr Gash said if the mortgage fell through council had the ability to get the land back. Council would also retain the $250,000 deposit plus $639,000 in interest already paid. Council is still financially better off now," she said.
South Coast Register, Comments - Andrew Guile • 21 hours ago
Obviously the Mayor hasn't bothered to read the legal advice because it says nothing about whether we are doing the right thing in relation to extending the terms or waiving the interest. Just shows the lack of understanding of commerciality with regard to this whole issue. I'm sure the Mayor is very comfortable with how the GM has acted because he is acting according to her instructions. His admissions that no due diligence has been done on the developer as to their capacity to pay the interest suggests that he might understand how open Council is to losing it all.
Update 10 February 2014 - contribution by Leslie Lockwood
The proponent's response to the submissions made on Dec 2012 is on the DoPI website at link: http://majorprojects.planning.nsw.gov.au/page/development-categories/tourism---recreation/tourist--convention---entertainment/?action=view_job&job_id=1134 - large document - 14.8 MB - see screenshot at left. The DoPI will prepare a report on this response, which will go to the Planning Assessment Commision (PAC). This is because there were more than 25 objections to the development EA report. As part of the process, it is more than likely that there will be a public meeting, which will be advertised on the DoPI website (and hopefully locally). If you sent a submission to the earlier EA, you should check that the issues you raised were addressed in the proponent's response. If not, you should contact the DoPI now. |
28 November 2012 - prepared by Judy Gjedsted
In May 2008, the Shaolin Project Application, prepared by consultants Conybeare Morrison, was lodged with the NSW Minister for Planning.
In June, Shaolin asked for a three month deferral of the agreed settlement date. The first deferred deadline was not met. The next was also not met and the third, in March, 2009, passed without payment.
Shaolin then took advantage of a clause in the sale contract allowing a three year mortgage, financed by the City of Shoalhaven, with a lower than commercial rate of interest payable six (6) monthly in arrears.
Shaolin representative Patrick Pang is reported as saying that Shaolin did not want external investors.
In July, 2009, former Mayor Watson returned from a China visit advising that the Shaolin development may attract Chinese Government sponsorship "if and when all the planning approvals are granted".
In November, 2009, Councillor Watson announced the presentation of a cheque for $8 million as a personal contribution to the Shaolin project by a wealthy Chinese businessman known as Mr Huen. Councillor Watson is reported as saying that the new funding was expected to see the project through to the construction phase.
In March, 2012 Shaolin's three (3) year mortgage term ended. Shaolin asked for the final payment to be extended for another twelve months. Council agreed to this extension.
In August, 2012, Shaolin lodged a revised application with the NSW Department of Planning and, in October, Council agreed to defer Shaolin's interest payments for 6 months or until the environmental assessment was approved.
In the early 1980s the Shaolin Temple in Henan Province, China, is reported to have had only 12 monks and one hectare of farmland. A 1982 film featuring the kung fu martial art is reported to have changed its fortunes.
By 2009 the Shaolin Temple is reported to have set up twenty eight (28) overseas centres to promote kung fu and Chinese culture while the Shaolin brand has been attached to a wide range of products.
The Chinese Government sought United Nations consideration for World Heritage Listing for the mainland temple buildings and for kung fu as a 'World Intangible Heritage'.
The current Shaolin Temple Abbot, Shi Yongxin, was officially inaugurated in 1999. A published list of the Abbot's appointments and achievements show him to have been an Elected Deputy of the 9th National People's Congress of the people of Chinas from 1998 to 2003.
Shaolin's 2012 environmental assessment indicates a greater emphasis on the provision of services for Chinese nationals in the proposed development.
"the residential component of the development will comprise mainly Chinese nationals and retirees" (Chinese national retirees?)
The Kung Fu Academy appears to have become (or is in addition to) a school for which:
"it is anticipated that there will be an ultimate accreditation with the NSW Department of Education similar to independent schools. It is anticipated that 80% of these students will come from China to learn English and gain an education for future settlement".
A figure of some 20 to 50 Chinese medicine practitioners are proposed for the short stay 'Wellness' Centre.
The development "aims to optimise on self sufficiency" and it is difficult to see any of the anticipated tourist dollars escaping from the site. Shaolin want a self contained system providing food, accommodation, recreation, entertainment, shopping and alternative medicine.
As a religious organisation, Shaolin can expect to gain significant exemptions from the payment of local government rates. Australian churches also benefit from tax exemptions. These concessions are not usually available to other tourist operators.
Shaolin propose a five (5) to twenty (20) year construction period. That is up to twenty years of clearing, construction and occupation on a site bounded by the watercourse (Currambene Creek) which forms some 72% of the Jervis Bay catchment.
"The high water quality of Jervis Bay is attributed to largely undeveloped catchments which, as a consequence, spared the waters of Jervis Bay from the sediments, nutrients and other pollutants normally exported from developed and developing catchments" (Jervis Bay Territory Land Use / Development Blueprint, 1996)
"most of the site drains towards the Creeks, Currambene and Georges Creek, (with) a small portion draining towards the upper reaches of Bid Bid Creek". (Shaolin Environmental Assessment - Volume 1, August 2012)
The question is, what are we in danger of losing and who will gain what?
23 November 2012 - prepared by Judy Gjedsted
[In 2009] The then Planning Minister, Frank Sartor said, regarding the reasons for his first wary response to the Shaolin proposal, that, "there were a number of developments around the state which seemed to be Trojan horses where hidden behind a golf course there were dwelling subdivisions". (SMH 14-15 Nov, 2009)
The proposal was eventually accepted as being of state significance because of its tourist component but was subject to approval on the basis that " the amount of residential development should be limited to 200 - 300 dwellings" and that "the land developed for tourism and residential purposes should be retained in one ownership".
The Shaolin's Environmental assessment states, "the sites will be subdivided under community land legislation" (community title). "The residential component of the land will be divided into individual allotments with each lot owners (precincts) responsible for the care and maintenance of their lots".
And, "community lots can be further subdivided to create subsidiary schemes"? One ownership? Marketable? The application notes that the residential component of the development will comprise mainly Chinese nationals and retirees. The title to everything other than the residential component would be owned by the Shaolin Temple Foundation Australia Ltd.
The conditions / recommendations applied to the development by the Minister via the South Coast Sensitive Lands Review and the South Coast Regional Strategy also included:
"The eastern portion of the site (east of the existing quarry and including SEPP 14 wetland in the southern corner of the site) should be added to the Jervis Bay National Park on the grounds of its conservation value".
This statement appears as an echo of 'other conservation values' in consent conditions imposed by the Land and Environment Court in 1989 on approving the Comberton Grange quarry. Council were to "enter into a conservation agreement with the National Parks and Wildlife Service in respect of some specific plant species and Bid Bid Creek catchment" and "other conservation values on the Comberton Grange property". After some years of what appears to be languid negotiations the proposed agreements were not signed.
The (Shaolin Environmental Assessment 2012) says "it is not the intention of the Shaolin Foundation to dedicate the eastern portion of the site to be added to the Jervis Bay National Park".
And "as compensation for clearing part of the corridor, the habitat corridor could be modified to include forest in the east".
And, "the area (eastern forest) will be retained and conserved as an environmentally sensitive area but with the ability to have eco-trails and managed camping facilities for engagement with the local environment".
21 November 2012 - update from Leslie Lockwood
The exhibition period for the proposed Comberton Grange development has not been extended but we've been given an additional 14 days to forward submissions to the Department. Now closing date will be 18th December 2012.
A paper copy of the information is now available at the Vincentia Leisure Centre.
The Application figure given for car spaces on site is approximately 972 (not clear if that includes the 6 coach spaces and two bus bays) to accommodate:
150 / 300 students; 30 / 50 monks; 20 / 50 Chinese medical practitioners in temple area and health and wellness precinct; 18 hole golf course and club house; rooms and cabins for up to 500 guests; 200 seat restaurant and cafe for 100 patrons; 3 storey convention centre; village centre with professional, community and commercial services (e.g. chemist, bakery, fast food and supermarket).
And, three 2 storey residential precincts (A, B and C) for a total of 300 dwellings described as detached, medium density and villa developments for permanent occupancy (1, 2 and 3 bedroom) and including independent / assisted living villas for older residents with medical and home care support.
And, a 3 storey multi unit (number unspecified) of one, two and three bedroom serviced apartments above the retail / commercial premises in the village centre.
NOTE: NSW Department of Planning document South Coast Regional Strategy (2010) states "no new towns or villages will be supported unless compelling reasons are presented".
The NSW Planning Department's requirements for the project noted that "consideration should be made to having access to the site via only one road, either Forest Road or Comberton Grange Road".
The majority of the site, except for floodplain is within a vegetation category 1 bush fire zone.
In assessing the Shaolin proposal in 2008 Shoalhaven City Council estimated that it could ultimately generate some 15,000 vehicle movements a day with approximately 3/4 of this traffic to / from the north and the rest to / from the south.
The site is also located under the two nautical mile wide helicopter flight corridor from HMAS ALBATROSS and the Jervis Bay training area. A 2008 noise assessment report by The Acoustic Group Pty Ltd (consulting acoustical and vibration engineers) recommended that all habitable buildings be insulated against aircraft noise but noted that treating the interior of buildings would not mitigate impacts on the use and enjoyment of private outdoor spaces.
Shaolin say the proposed development aims to create a tourist attraction in a tranquil setting???
5 November 2012 - Comberton Grange - Shaolin Temple proposal from a viewpoint of heritage (homestead), cultural (especially Aboriginal), environmental and Jervis Bay (impacts), and some good images/maps: see the Save Jervis Bay website
NSW Dept Planning Exhibition web site: http://majorprojects.planning.nsw.gov.au/index.pl?action=view_job&job_id=1134 or you can look at a hard copy in at Council. The whole assessment is in 2 folders, each about 10cm thick. On public exhibition until cob 4 December 2012 (but submissions accepted until 18 December).
NOTIFICATION OF MAJOR PROJECT:
The NSW Dept Planning [NSW DoP&I], has advertised an Environmental Assessment of the Comberton Grange site north of Currambene Creek (for the purposes of building a temple complex etc.)
You can look at this on their web site: http://majorprojects.planning.nsw.gov.au/index.pl?action=view_job&job_id=1134
Or you can look at a hard copy in at Council. The whole assessment is in 2 folders, each about 10cm thick. There will be a hard copy at the Vincentia Leisure Centre, but the 16 or so appendices won’t be with it.
Essentially the project consists of:
a temple complex with accommodation for 30 - 50 monks
a village centre of dining, retail and commercial spaces of 2 storeys as well as 4 storey accommodation in the form of serviced apartments totalling 10,000 sqm as well as a convention centre for 300 – 600 people
a 2 storey education centre with accommodation for 165 - 330 students and staff and a sports field
a health and wellness precinct with treatment and fitness facilities as well as short-stay accommodation for an unknown number
A resort-style hotel with guest rooms and self-contained separated facilities for 100 – 250 rooms
residential precincts for 100 - 300 detached dwellings
an 18 hole golf course
a Chinese garden near the old quarry
agricultural and herb farms
Please email Leslie Lockwood of Huskisson at: lesleith@ozemail.com.au if you want to be kept informed on this project. Information is being prepared to assist with submissions.
Exhibition details: Enquiries: Tel: 1300 305 695 or email: information@planning.nsw.gov.au
Application 06_0135, Comberton Grange, Nowra. Proponent: Shaolin Temple Foundation (Australia) Ltd. Department of Planning & Infrastructure website: majorprojects.planning.nsw.gov.au On exhibition until 18 December 2012 at: DOP&I Sydney Information Centre (Bridge St), DOP&I Wollongong office (Crown St) and Shoalhaven City Council Nowra (Bridge St). Fax submissions to: 02 9228 6455; Post to: Major Projects Assessment, Department of Planning & Infrastructure, GPO Box 39, Sydney NSW 2001; Email to: plan_comment@planning.nsw.gov.au, or via the entry for the project on the Department’s website: majorprojects.planning.nsw.gov.au