Save our historic Razorback Ridge/Lookout.

My family has been living on the side of Razorback for nearly 50 years now & is part of our family history,memories & conquests.As an adventurous young lad,we would climb the side of the mountain every weekend all the way to the top.It was like climbing Mt Everest the satisfaction we enjoyed by reaching the pinnacle & to be able to see as far as the horizon would allow over the Tweed township,over the majestic blue ocean,beyond the historic Cook Island.To the west we could see the top of Mt.Warning & the rolling mountain ridges heading north overlooking Endless summer estate,the gold coast international airport,all the way to Surfers Paradise.On a clear sunny day you could see north as far as South Stradbroke Island & as far south as Kingscliff.Old man Wilson would be selling bananas from his old wooden shack in the carpark area using an honesty box,bless his soul.On the western side of the mountain was a jungle track that led to an old rustic shelter used as a tourist tea house which baked fresh scones & pastries that could be smelt from the carpark.People would just follow the sweet fresh aroma of coffee & scones in there quest trekking along the jungle track.To sit among the coolness of the trees listening to the local bird life sing with joy & ponder on life while appreciating the majestic views that Razorback offered.

To truly appreciate the 360 degree views ,one must take the quest to the top of the ridge up a balustraded footpath which has no steps ,so wheelchair access is viable.Once atop of the mountain you can feel the ocean breezes revitalise your senses.A pleasant stroll on a lovely paved footpath will lead you around the top with excellent photographic opportunities to cherish for years to come.I have personally been taking pictures from here to show visitors how our area has progressed over the years.For the adventurous & fitness orientated,the walk from the local historic cemetery up the hill all the way to the top is truly a challenge.

Razorback Mountain has so much history & heritage & residents of the Tweed would regret ever closing such a vantage point with magnificient views.I once submitted an application for a cafe/tourist hut so people could relax over a coffee & learn about the Tweeds history & tourist spots by showing them from this great vantage spot.,but to no avail.It is Tweed Heads only Lookout & should be preserved.Yes,there are other lookouts across the border in Coolangatta but none so unique as Razorback.I would think the tweed community would appreciate a family orientated lookout with BBQ areas,seating & shelters.It has always been popular for weddings & photographs after weddings,school excursions showcasing the region to the children & tourist vans from local accommodation houses.So many bird species frequent this giant limestone mountain engulfed in natural rainforest as well a large family of fruit bats.Regular visitors to the ridge were shocked to find our pathway fenced up to the top of the lookout.I only hope the council members can see all the benefits of reopening our beloved Razorback Lookout & showcasing our Tweed area to visitors.Yours sincerely,Tim Payne.Resident of Razorback Mountain for the last 49 years.