These comments are made after attempts to raise broader issues of risk in regard to the inappropriate behaviour of some kitesurfing individuals at public beaches in another thread "Show Pony Alert @ Brighton WA" ( see
www.seabreeze.com.au/forums/Kitesurfing/General/Show-Pony-Alert-Brighton-WA/ ).
The thread was closed on the evening 6th Jan 2011 after 303 postings and 9,700 viewings (approx.) over 10 days.
In spite of a number of hints, comments and warnings (including by the moderator) about repeated inappropriate behaviour by some individuals I was forced eventually, through concerns about my personal safety, to issue 'warnings' to two individuals. (see
rsckitesurfing.blogspot.com )
Clearly -- like harassment and intimidation on public beaches -- this abusive behaviour reflects badly on kitesurfing and those responsible and mature people who seek their recreational fun (and in some cases living and employment) within it.
There is a clearly a link between the type of behaviour, comments and attitudes listed in the 'Show Pony' thread and the issue of primary focus implied in the title: bad behaviour on the public beaches and its risks.
I have come to the conclusion that the organisations representing this recreational activity and sport (kitersurfing) are not yet ready to provide professional support and services for new members like myself who are not in the standard demographic profile.
I have also come to the conclusion that, apart from public liability insurance coverage (which can be obtained elsewhere), the effectiveness of these governance associations is below what I consider to be viable and sustainable.
Clearly these types of attitudes and behaviours in a public web forum demonstrate that there is a culture problem within this kitesurfing domain -- at least in Australia.
Calls from within the fraternity by more mature, aware and concerned voices for self-governance and self regulation are Utopian.
Unless there is swift and radical change in the culture then only one outcome can be possible: more oversight, regulation, fees, monitoring and fines by government authorities.
All beaches are public commons. If a group of individuals wish to use it to the risk and endangerment of others then they must be governed effectively - either through self control or control by others. This is the tragedy of the commons.
When self-governance is not possible, through various systemic and cultural factors, then higher authorities must and will step in.
Some in the kitesurfing domain seem to be aware of this. But it seems they are incapable for various reasons of achieving their aims. Calls go unheeded. Positive suggestions are not offered. Debate is stifled. Dissent is threatened.
Public authorities should and will take note. This is what they are dealing with on the beaches.
The
Show Pony Express ended in a train wreck -- and is well captured in the final post before shut down.
I suggest this is but a micro-scenario of what will happen in the next 12-18 month for the kitesurfing activity as a whole in the real world. I put the probability at 0.75 and rising.
While this is the case -- and while the WAKSA/AKSA joining conditions indemnify members and serving committee members (see
http://www.aksa.com.au/Indemnity ) -- I cannot join.
I wish to distance myself from risk of association.
It does not meet my values or standards.
It protects Show Ponies @ Brighton Beach!
Risk evaluation strongly suggests walking away and watching the show from the sidelines as it develops into whole-of-community outrage at a new and dynamic but dangerous and out-of-control sport.
However, in my short time within it, I have met some good and intelligent young people and that gives me hope. I have heard some sensible and responsible 'voices' on the 'Show Pony' express thread. But there is along way to go in my opinion.
The way forward?
Open discussion.
Effective dialogue.
Mutual respect.
Good governance.
Risk reduction.
Strategic thinking.
Mature adults.
Effective Associations.
