Re: Smoking in hides

[John Martinet <>]

Hi Kym,

Obviously we both feel very strongly about this issue so may I suggest we take this offline. 

I am heartened to have received a number of emails in support of my stance.

Furthermore, I believe that I have law on my side. Smoking is banned in enclosed public places in the Australian Capital Territory under the Smoke-Free Public Places Act 2003. I would argue that all hides at the wetlands fit this criteria. From the Act, sporting or recreational premises are covered by the act.^x

To be considered 'enclosed', a public place (or part of a public place) must have an overhead cover and be 75 per cent or more enclosed.^xi A public place is '75 per cent or more enclosed' if the area that opens directly to the outside air is 25 per cent or less of the total closed and open area of the walls and overhead cover.^xii

The reason why I have not confronted you might seem rude, but I am being pragmatic. I was physically assaulted at NSW nature park when telling a dog walker (with hound off leash chasing seabirds) that his dog was not allowed in the park.

Although I believe I have moral authority I have no power to enforce any rule and therefore rely on designated officers to do that for all of us. I will no longer confront wrong doers. Please forgive my rudeness.

As I said previously I am willing to continue this via my email above.

John M