However, the provision of a safe harbour for all, using taxpayer dollars, remains the key motivation for the NSW government.

In mid-November the government began seeking expressions of interest to design and construct a wave attenuator in Snug Cove as part of the $10million Eden Safe Harbour Project.

Bega MP and NSW Minister for Transport Andrew Constance reiterated the $10million commitment from the transport budget is to provide a safe harbour “first and foremost”.

“The focus has to be on a safe harbour – this harbour needs future proofing,” Mr Constance said this week.

He stressed that the EOI is about getting ideas.

“While Rob Bain has identified issues around the EOI let's get the feedback first. We want the attenuator built for a safe harbour. 

“We're trying to generate as much economic uplift as possible for the area. I want everyone on the same page.”

However, Port of Eden Marina (POEM) secretary Rob Bain maintains the proposed alignment for the attenuator does not allow space for a viable commercial marina behind it.  

He also claims the proposed attenuator would not make Snug Cove a “safe harbour”.

“This situation is totally at odds with the written assurances provided to the government’s Safe Harbour Community Liaison Group, that the protected area would be maximised and properly protected for a marina and that the attenuator alignment would be informed by the pre-conditions for a marina,” Mr Bain said this week.

“The outcome of this EOI would be an almost useless attenuator getting in the way of the tugs and fishing boats. It would not attract any recreational boats or tourists to Eden or provide a dollar of economic benefit to the community.”

In an addendum to the EOI issued on Tuesday, answering questions from prospective tenderers, the Department of Industry said the objective of the Eden Safe Harbour Project is to provide a safer harbour for local and visiting vessels and its objective “is not linked to, nor dependent upon, any proposed marina development”.