City of Clarence has completed an estimation of the costs for traffic and crowd management and repairing of public infrastructure following Neil the Seal’s 15-night stay in Seven Mile Beach.
Mayor Brendan Blomeley said the estimated cost to City of Clarence for Neil’s visit was $31,540.53.
“Most of this cost was related to staffing and labour. 131.5 standard work hours and 144 overtime hours were required during Neil’s stay,” Mayor Blomeley said.
“As far as damage goes, Neil’s scratching up against public property meant one sign, 10 bollards, and one section of fence will need to be replaced, equating to around $1,297.70 in materials.”
“It’s important to remember that while the damage bill is relatively small, Neil is a wild animal and the over exposure and constant public attention he received could have lead to a more dramatic outcome. Wherever he decides to come ashore next, I hope he is given the space and time he needs.”
Neil by numbers
- 34-night stay in Clarence (19 nights at Goats Beach, 15 nights in Seven Mile Beach)
- One street sign flattened
- 10 bollards knocked over
- One section of fence crushed
- 275.5 staff hours managing traffic and crowds, and repairing damage