FORESHORE DEVELOPMENT:

From 1967 onwards the Strathalbyn Council began to change its attitude towards the Milang shacks. It wanted to change the leasing arrangements so that shackowners could be charged rates as well as rent. Some concern had also been expressed about the non-compliance of the shacks with the requirements of the Building Act. In particular it was suggested that their closeness together would be a problem in the event of a fire or the outbreak of disease.

In October 1967 the Council took over the administration of the Foreshore area from the Progress Association, employing a dayman to perform the necessary duties. The Association was left with no income and no recompense for the improvements which they had made in the area.

The Council began to draw up plans for the complete redevelopment of the Foreshore and prepared submissions to present to the newly formed Government Waterfront Recreational Areas Advisory Committee.

In 1972 the Council received a grant from the Department of Lands and in 1974 another from the Minister of Tourism. This resulted in the establishment of the Caravan Park, the building of a sloping concrete wall along the waterfront and the compulsory relocation of the shacks on the Eastern side of the jetty. The willow trees in the area were also removed, leaving it bare and without shelter until buildings were provided.