Council to investigate chamber head's debt
8:50AM Wingecarribee Shire Council will investigate whether it can recover a $24,0106 outstanding debt from Highlands Waste Services, a defunct company formerly run by Mittagong Chamber of Commerce president Charlie Johns. [more]
Letter to the Editor.Southern Highland news. 28.4.08
Dear Sir
Thanks Mac for your appraisal of the Extraordinary meeting on Wednesday the 16th of April (SHN 18.4.08). You certainly put an interesting spin on the proceedings of the evening. Like you, I was very impressed by the 400 plus residents who actually got themselves motivated enough to come along and voice their protest at the totally arrogant attitude of the majority of Councillors. The block must be an incredibly thick one, as even the pleas of 400 plus residents and rate payers could wear them down. So much for listening!
I voiced my contempt on the night at the blatant disregard of public sentiment shown by the now gang of seven. The point was continually missed by my fellow Councillors who were always determined to push ahead under a smokescreen of promises and public consultation to manipulate their own agenda.
I still cannot and will not believe that those Councillors who profess to be listening to the community, in all sincerity believe that they are acting in a fair and democratic way. Even though they would have the community believe that they will listen to the poll, I am afraid that the deal has been done. The ink has all but dried on the for sale signs.
Why was I continually goaded by Clr Malcolm Murray to commit myself to go along wit the Poll when he himself has so blatantly ignored and insulted the will and the intelligence of the community?
I did agree to abide by the result of the poll as Mac Cott pointed out, but this was conditional on the magnificent Seven showing the integrity and sincerity that comes along with their own commitment. In other words, my agreement was based on fair play, that is if they had agreed to be honourable and " taken no action in relation to the reclassification of the land" until after the polls.
They of course did not. I believe their sincerity was tested on the night and from where I sat, they failed the test. This may be because they had already made up their mind.
The deal is done. If not, they would have shown their sense democracy by holding back until the results of the poll were known, not thumbed their collective noses and continued with their double speak and attempts at patronising the crowd.
Mac, I think people know where I come from. I do not and have not ever sold this community out, nor will I try to deceive the people of the Wingecarribee, nor bamboozle them with platitudes and patronisation.
Also Mac, I would see a number of advantages in playing the popularist, rather than the unpoularist, particularly when you believe, like others, in what you are fighting for.
Faithfully yours,
Clr Larry Whipper
Monday, April 28, 2008
Monday, April 14, 2008
dont be like this!
Join us in our campaign to bring sanity back into the community decision making process. Don't believe that you cannot make a difference. You are the only thing that can.
If you have had enough of being ignored by Council. Consider supporting the Community Action Team. I will be calling a special meeting to seek support from those of you who care about the shire and want to see some commonsense and community minded local governance returned to the shire. Please email your expression of interest in attending an informal meeting via email and I will contact you closer to the time of the meeting and provide all the details.
Remember we are all in this together!
letter to the editor.
Dear Sir,
Re: Can we afford leisure centre? (SHN. 11.4.08). The simple answer is no ! The honest answer is no! And the responsible answer is of course no! Why then are we persisting?
I don't really think that any one would object to a leisure centre if we could in fact afford it. But given we can't why do some Councillors ignore this fact? Maybe the answer can be found in the election jargon of the "time for a change" team at the last election. What cannot be found in that jargon however, is the promise to sell your land or close public pools.
What can be found there in that election blurb, is a promise to listen to the people, not ignore the fact that around 90% of submissions to the LEP have been relating to and opposing the reclassification and sale of public land.
I think Mr Brewster in his letter to the editor makes some very pertinent Points and asks some very relevant questions. There will be an enormous maintenance cost accompanying this proposal as well. Nobody has spoken about that yet. How will we be able to pay for it? Even though no fault of our own, some Council investments have gone sour. Until recouped, we have to acknowledge the fact that there is an uncertainty surrounding council finances.
Don't be seduced into thinking your local pools will be safe from the eyes of our current Council Entrepreneurs (particularly if the same mind set prevails on your new council). It seems that anything that isn't tied down may be seen as collateral to fund pet projects.
It is still my belief that the construction of a leisure centre at this point in time, is an investment in financial loss. In the current economic climate of council, this will remain a drain on the resources and rates of the residents of this shire.
I believe that Councillors should to listen to the people who have entrusted them with their civic role, all the time, not just at election time! Remember there were a number of promises made at the last election. The sale of community, land was not one of them. The closure of public pools, was not one of them, nor was ignoring the community.
So it may now " Really be time for Change". Change back to a form of representation that favours the mums and dads, children, retirees and families of this shire. Time to focus on the bigger picture and Community over the personal pursuits and narrow vision of some whose actions do more to prop up the big end of town, than cater for the rest of us!
I for one have heard the message and will continue to fight not only to save your land, but to empower and save your future.
Faithfully yours.
Clr Larry Whipper.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Don't miss the line up on Wenesday the 16th of April
No it is not April Fools Day, Council are actually going to vote to reclassify and sell your public land. There is a motion being put forward by Clrs Malcolm Murray and Paul Tuddenham. I believe this to be directly in response to the public outcry on this matter. Of course they say it is because they are listening to the people! And maybe they are, but only to save their political necks. If we were not only 6 months out from an election, I do not think the community would be getting this concession!
Even with the concession there still remains around 20 blocks up for grabs, including Bowral Pool. There is also a proposal to sell the Old Sewage Treatment Plant site at Mittagong, which is behind the Big W.
Some say that the land sale proponents have devised a strategy to divide and conquer the opposition. I still believe that the community will oppose this fire sale mentality on principle. It is essential that we stand together. It is also important to remember that we are are not far out from an election. You must ask yourself "can I trust these Councillors, who are proposing and continuing to support the reclassification and sale of public land? What will they come up with as a money making strategy and entrepreneurial venture in the in the next term. And can the community afford it?"
I am proposing to move an amendment at the meeting. It will probably come after the land cited by the ruling junta has been given as a gift gift to the community and the 30 or so lots have been removed from the list. Having then proven that they ahve listened, you may then find that they again choose not to listen. The proof is always in the pudding. Lets see what eventuates. My amendment will be this:
1) That Council not proceed with the reclassification of any community land as identified in the LEP, including Bowral pool
2) That Council endorse the sale of the old STP site in Roscoe Street Mittagong.
3) That the proceeds of the sale be invested in the upgrading of Mittagong and Moss Vale Pools and the covering of Bowral Public pool to create an all year round swimming centre for the shire.
2) That Council endorse the sale of the old STP site in Roscoe Street Mittagong.
3) That the proceeds of the sale be invested in the upgrading of Mittagong and Moss Vale Pools and the covering of Bowral Public pool to create an all year round swimming centre for the shire.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
From the Whisper: Councils Newsletter.
Latest on land reclassification.
The Whisper
No. 544 Thursday 3rd April 2008
A weekly publication for Wingecarribee Shire Council staff
The next step with reclassification of community land
The residents have spoken, now it is the Councillors turn
Following the exhibition period of the Draft LEP Council will now conduct two extraordinary council
meetings in the Bowral Memorial Hall on Wednesday 16 and Wednesday 30 April commencing at
3.30pm. The first meeting will consider the reclassification of community land in the Local
Environmental Plan, while the 30th April meeting will consider the final endorsement of the LEP. The
Bowral Memorial Hall will to allow a greater number of
community members to observe the process, catering for 400
people, while the Civic Centre Chambers can legally cope with just
100. It is stressed that these will be formal special extraordinary
council meetings, so only councillors can debate the issues – that is
the procedure at extraordinary council meetings. Members of the
community have had their turn at all the public meetings and in
their submissions, but these meetings are for Councillors to have
their say and vote on the matters.
Parks proposed to be removed
from the reclassification list
A Notice of Motion will be considered at the extraordinary council
meeting on 16th April, proposing to remove thirteen parks and
seven properties from the reclassification list in the draft LEP.
Following the democratic and extensive public consultation
process undertaken by council, the notice of motion proposes to
remove the following parks and properties from the list;
Parks
Yeo Park in Yarrawa Street Moss Vale, Ritchie Park in Suttor
Road Moss Vale, Thwaites Park in Twickenham Place Moss
Vale, Broughton Park in Broughton Street Bundanoon, Acacia
Park Janice Crescent Moss Vale, Rotary Park in Old Bowral
Road Mittagong, Venables Park in Una Street Bowral, Apex
Park in Price Street Bowral, Westwood Park in Westwood Drive
and College Street Bowral, Henderson Park in Pine Street Moss
Vale, Waratah Park in Street Colo Vale, Waratah Park (Jasmine
Street) Colo Vale, Mineral Springs Reserve at Mittagong.
Properties
Soma Avenue in Bowral, Rytina Place in Moss Vale, Dyson Place in Moss Vale, Ben Nevis Circuit in
Bundanoon, Meryla Street in Robertson, Wilson Drive in Balmoral, Tulip Close in Bowral.
Land proposed to remain on the reclassification list
Provided the Notice of Motion is adopted at the extraordinary council meeting on 16th April, the
following land will remain on the reclassification list in the draft LEP.
Queen Street in Moss Vale, Argyle Street in Moss Vale, Mylora Street in Hill Top, Mylora Street in
Hill Top (2), Harold Street in Hill Top, Davy Street in Mittagong, Stanley Terrace in Moss Vale,
Woodbine Street in Bowral, East Kangaloon RFS site, Old Hume Highway in Berrima, Anembo Street
in Moss Vale, Drapers Road in Braemar, Lackey Road in Moss Vale, Cherry Tree Close in Moss Vale,
Bevan Place in Bowral, Oxley Hill Road in Bowral, Woodville Road in Moss Vale, Bowral Pool,
Oxley Street in Berrima, The old STP site in Roscoe Street Mittagong.
The Whisper
No. 544 Thursday 3rd April 2008
A weekly publication for Wingecarribee Shire Council staff
The next step with reclassification of community land
The residents have spoken, now it is the Councillors turn
Following the exhibition period of the Draft LEP Council will now conduct two extraordinary council
meetings in the Bowral Memorial Hall on Wednesday 16 and Wednesday 30 April commencing at
3.30pm. The first meeting will consider the reclassification of community land in the Local
Environmental Plan, while the 30th April meeting will consider the final endorsement of the LEP. The
Bowral Memorial Hall will to allow a greater number of
community members to observe the process, catering for 400
people, while the Civic Centre Chambers can legally cope with just
100. It is stressed that these will be formal special extraordinary
council meetings, so only councillors can debate the issues – that is
the procedure at extraordinary council meetings. Members of the
community have had their turn at all the public meetings and in
their submissions, but these meetings are for Councillors to have
their say and vote on the matters.
Parks proposed to be removed
from the reclassification list
A Notice of Motion will be considered at the extraordinary council
meeting on 16th April, proposing to remove thirteen parks and
seven properties from the reclassification list in the draft LEP.
Following the democratic and extensive public consultation
process undertaken by council, the notice of motion proposes to
remove the following parks and properties from the list;
Parks
Yeo Park in Yarrawa Street Moss Vale, Ritchie Park in Suttor
Road Moss Vale, Thwaites Park in Twickenham Place Moss
Vale, Broughton Park in Broughton Street Bundanoon, Acacia
Park Janice Crescent Moss Vale, Rotary Park in Old Bowral
Road Mittagong, Venables Park in Una Street Bowral, Apex
Park in Price Street Bowral, Westwood Park in Westwood Drive
and College Street Bowral, Henderson Park in Pine Street Moss
Vale, Waratah Park in Street Colo Vale, Waratah Park (Jasmine
Street) Colo Vale, Mineral Springs Reserve at Mittagong.
Properties
Soma Avenue in Bowral, Rytina Place in Moss Vale, Dyson Place in Moss Vale, Ben Nevis Circuit in
Bundanoon, Meryla Street in Robertson, Wilson Drive in Balmoral, Tulip Close in Bowral.
Land proposed to remain on the reclassification list
Provided the Notice of Motion is adopted at the extraordinary council meeting on 16th April, the
following land will remain on the reclassification list in the draft LEP.
Queen Street in Moss Vale, Argyle Street in Moss Vale, Mylora Street in Hill Top, Mylora Street in
Hill Top (2), Harold Street in Hill Top, Davy Street in Mittagong, Stanley Terrace in Moss Vale,
Woodbine Street in Bowral, East Kangaloon RFS site, Old Hume Highway in Berrima, Anembo Street
in Moss Vale, Drapers Road in Braemar, Lackey Road in Moss Vale, Cherry Tree Close in Moss Vale,
Bevan Place in Bowral, Oxley Hill Road in Bowral, Woodville Road in Moss Vale, Bowral Pool,
Oxley Street in Berrima, The old STP site in Roscoe Street Mittagong.
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Borefield Environmental Assessment on Exhibition
The exhibition period for the Kangaloon borefield extractions has commenced. At this stage it is anticipated that it will be on exhibition from the 2nd April 2008 until the 5th of may 2008. I have included a few links for those of you who may be interested.
The community reference group are still opposed to the extraction and believe that given the Governments priority should be the de -sal plant, particularly given their commitment to the project. Of course the UNGCRG have always supported recycling, water efficiency and harvesting of stormwater as the first defence against Sydney's water crisis.
Council's Environment Committee along with Councillors will get a presentation from the SCA. We are also asking for an extension for the exhibition period. the UNGCRG w are preparing a submission. I will ask Council to support the stand of the reference group, as they have done in the past.
The EA is now available on the website of the Department of Planning http://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/asp/major_projects.asp under (Part 3A Major Developments - on exhibition)
As we now, it has been declared critical Infrastructure.
There are other documents on the project accessible through the link http://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/asp/06_0331.asp
Donna Sowry is the Public Relations person for the project. She is extremely helpful and available on the following email.
The project overview is available on the following link.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Beware of Nick's bearing Gifts.
Hi All,
It has been confirmed that Malcolm Murray will move a motion ( a possible vote getter) Nick who will not stand again, will second it. The motion will be to remove all parks from the for sale list. The Plan is to move to sell of the old sewerage treatment plant in Mittagong instead. Motion will be moved at the meeting of the 16th. Looks like Nick has been worn down. He did tell me a week or so ago that he was getting too tired to
tired to fight and would consider removing parks, but leaving
reserves. He must have thought further on the matter.
I , am very suspicious about this latest strategy. I have seen some councillors, still intent on getting their own way, manipulate public sentiment and, as Cam Ford from the Moss Vale Action Group has said, use this to divide and conquer!
My feeling is that the public land sale proponents are getting overwhelmed by what they call the noisy minority and are running scared. This strategy is designed to put up yet another smoke screen and confuse the community, while allowing them to continue to build the White Elephant that will still cost enormous amounts of rate payers monies in maintenance. It will not stop the sale of Bowral Pool, nor will it stop the possible closure of other pools to pay for the ongoing maintenance costs.
Nick indicated to me after the Stateline taping, that he was getting tired and would probably take the parks of the for sale list. He said we would have to sell the Mittagong sewerage site however. Question: are these his to sell??
tired to fight and would consider removing parks, but leaving
reserves. He must have thought further on the matter.
I , am very suspicious about this latest strategy. I have seen some councillors, still intent on getting their own way, manipulate public sentiment and, as Cam Ford from the Moss Vale Action Group has said, use this to divide and conquer!
My feeling is that the public land sale proponents are getting overwhelmed by what they call the noisy minority and are running scared. This strategy is designed to put up yet another smoke screen and confuse the community, while allowing them to continue to build the White Elephant that will still cost enormous amounts of rate payers monies in maintenance. It will not stop the sale of Bowral Pool, nor will it stop the possible closure of other pools to pay for the ongoing maintenance costs.
Nick indicated to me after the Stateline taping, that he was getting tired and would probably take the parks of the for sale list. He said we would have to sell the Mittagong sewerage site however. Question: are these his to sell??
Be very careful of Greeks bearing these type of gifts. I am trying to think of a significant amendment t raise at the meeting in an attempt to expose this move for what it is (i.e) a self interested strategy, rather than the response to public concern that the land sale proponents will try to push down every one's throats. Let me know if you have any ideas.
Saturday, March 29, 2008
the earth says thank you
Last Wednesday evening Council unanimously voted (in the absence of Clr Jim Mauger) to go to the public with a model for our next application to the Minister for another 5 year Environment levy . The model accepted by Council, if supported by the community and subsequently the Minister, will raise $5,391,799.55, for ongoing restoration and maintenance of our Environment.
To date the WOFE (Wingecarribee Our Future Environment Levy) has been one of the very real success stories of this shire. It has engaged Community members, school children,private landholders and others within the shire in the protection and healing of our local area.
To get to the stage where this levy is seen as an important part of Councils operations has not been an easy task. It has been a long battle. One that many bushcare, landcare and others with the community have assisted me in.
It is exciting to see an awakening within the mind of Council on this matter. Of course we have a very long way to go, but it seems that we are starting to acknowledge honestly the value of our precious environment and the advantage of having a special rate to protect it.
As we continue to work with private landholders and help them to maintain valuable stand of native forest on their properties and to educate school children and assist those amazing volunteers who continue to selflessly do so much work for the benefit of our shire and future generations, we can do so in the knowledge that there is an increasing acceptance of environmental issues within Council.
It is my hope that this will continue to grow and that we will eventually be in a position to strike a special rate in perpetuity. The public consultation process will commence in a month or so. The application needs to go to the Minister sometime in June. Hopefully by July, we will be in to our third term of WOFE. This is an incredibly satisfying reality for me.
Please look out for the public consultation phase and encourage friends and supporters to give their written support to the Environment levy. there will be many more important environmental projects under way soon.
Thanks again to all of you for your practical and financial contribution to our natural environment in the Wingecarribee Shire. It wouldn't be the same without you.
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Media Release: Water Charge.
Clr Larry Whipper has raised concerns about the possibility of Wingecarribee Shire Councils water utilities being subsumed by Sydney water. “ Such a move would disempower the local community and have very real financial implications for all local water users.
The government believes that many Local Water Utilities face constant challenges to plan and deliver reliable services, but this does not appear to be the case in the Wingecarribee.
For many years Council have been the local water Authority and although part of the Sydney water catchment have in effect had autonomy over water and sewer services. We have been very successful I this area, in fact, in 2006 Wingecarribee Council was actually voted as one of the top ten best sewerage award recipients. This was largely due to the very expert staff management of these utilities.
There is the belief among country councils that a change is inevitable and there has been talk of our Council possibly being forced to align with Goulburn-Mulwaree or the Shoalhaven.
“Obviously our Council has concerns, particularly when this will have such a financial impost upon Councils revenue and resources. We have a strong desire to remain a stand-alone water utility in one form or another. This sector of Council’s operation is indeed very viable at the moment”. Clr Whipper said.
Sydney waters charges are also predicted to rise substantially in the future, some believe that this will be needed to fund the proposed desalination plant to sure up Sydney’s water.
“I am afraid I have become very skeptical when our State Government start talking about water reforms of this nature. Some believe it is just another attempt to legitimize their pilfering of water from the Shoalhaven and the Wingecarribee”.
“This seems like another move to cripple local rural government utilities and rope them in even further in an attempt to make sure that Sydney’s and their own political survivals are shored up, even if this is at the expense of everybody else.
“Such a move could also put our local water resources at further risk, particularly when recent reforms are opening the way for water trading rights and the potential for water shares to become an even greater reality. Under the current state philosophy, I guess we cannot even write off the eventual privatization of these utilities as well”.
“Maybe this is could explain the growing interest in the water resources of the Southern Highlands”?
Council will further debate the subject on Wednesday night.
Keeping the "B's" honest
An Extraordinary Meeting of Council will be held on Wednesday 16 April 2008 to consider the Reclassification of Community land the meeting it will be in the Bowral Memorial Hall commencing at 3.30pm.
There will also be an Extraordinary Meeting of Council be held on Wednesday 30 April 2008 in the Bowral Memorial Hall commencing at 3.30pm to consider the final endorsement of the Local Environmental Plan.
These meeting are very important. The first (ie) 16th of April will be D day or decision day for the reclassifications. One of the "D" Block, is starting to show signs that he is under mounting pressure. He told me the other night that he may consider taking the parks off the reclassification list. This will as he said still leave the reserves in jeopardy.
I have heard that some are trying to seek legal advice, with an aim to mount a possible challenge. I haven't had confirmation of this as yet.
There was a strong turn out last week for the taping of a piece fro Stateline. People gathered at the Bowral Pool and westwood Park as well. The piece is scheduled to air on ABC, Friday March 28, at 7.30pm.
There will also be an Extraordinary Meeting of Council be held on Wednesday 30 April 2008 in the Bowral Memorial Hall commencing at 3.30pm to consider the final endorsement of the Local Environmental Plan.
These meeting are very important. The first (ie) 16th of April will be D day or decision day for the reclassifications. One of the "D" Block, is starting to show signs that he is under mounting pressure. He told me the other night that he may consider taking the parks off the reclassification list. This will as he said still leave the reserves in jeopardy.
I have heard that some are trying to seek legal advice, with an aim to mount a possible challenge. I haven't had confirmation of this as yet.
There was a strong turn out last week for the taping of a piece fro Stateline. People gathered at the Bowral Pool and westwood Park as well. The piece is scheduled to air on ABC, Friday March 28, at 7.30pm.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Please help stop the rifle range at hilltop.
From: Julie Cook
Date: 19/03/2008 6:01:58 PM
To: No Gun Club
Subject: Exhiition of State Proposal
Dear All,
Here is a submission letter for you to sign and send or drop into the boxat the shop. Please forward this letter to all your friends so we get the word out about this outrageous proposal. adding your own comments on the back or a separate sheet is very important too.
Council is supporting our group to oppose the State proposal and we will meet with them again next week to inform their submission. Our consultants and lawyers are forming up a substantial submission for HTRAG and have found all EA reports from DoS to be grossly inadequate and unable to be considered by the Minister - so this will stop in its tracks for some time (if not for good which is our aim). Community input from individuals is very important.
Media is starting this week to bring this proposal and the existing contamination and fauna issues and dodgy public consultation and planning processes into the public arena - SMH next Wednesday is taking it on so keep your eyes open - letters to the editor and talk back radio are all good - Alan Jones etc. This needs to be loud.
Here is the link to theDoS reports again http://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/asp/major_projects.asp (ensure you are in the Exhibitions page and click the "3a projects" button the left -) scroll down or search "shooting"
If you have any specific comments about any sections please reference them and send them to us. We will be passing all community comments to our planners.
Please respond to nogunclub@optusnet.com.au with any queries
Please post the attached letter - by 27 March or drop into the Hill Top Shop Box by that date.
Julie Cook
for
HTRAGI
Date: 19/03/2008 6:01:58 PM
To: No Gun Club
Subject: Exhiition of State Proposal
Dear All,
Here is a submission letter for you to sign and send or drop into the boxat the shop. Please forward this letter to all your friends so we get the word out about this outrageous proposal. adding your own comments on the back or a separate sheet is very important too.
Council is supporting our group to oppose the State proposal and we will meet with them again next week to inform their submission. Our consultants and lawyers are forming up a substantial submission for HTRAG and have found all EA reports from DoS to be grossly inadequate and unable to be considered by the Minister - so this will stop in its tracks for some time (if not for good which is our aim). Community input from individuals is very important.
Media is starting this week to bring this proposal and the existing contamination and fauna issues and dodgy public consultation and planning processes into the public arena - SMH next Wednesday is taking it on so keep your eyes open - letters to the editor and talk back radio are all good - Alan Jones etc. This needs to be loud.
Here is the link to theDoS reports again http://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/asp/major_projects.asp (ensure you are in the Exhibitions page and click the "3a projects" button the left -) scroll down or search "shooting"
If you have any specific comments about any sections please reference them and send them to us. We will be passing all community comments to our planners.
Please respond to nogunclub@optusnet.com.au with any queries
Please post the attached letter - by 27 March or drop into the Hill Top Shop Box by that date.
Julie Cook
for
HTRAGI
Thursday, March 6, 2008
message for your information
Dear friends
This is to invite you all to participate in the annual Koori Flagraising Ceremony at nin garang thurree currobung (The Place Between the Rocks) near Cherry Tree rest area in Gibbergunyah Reserve, to commemorate that this land is and forever will be the spiritual home of the traditional owners, the Gundungurra people.
Friends of Gibbergunyah, your families and friends, are invited to attend the ceremony which will take place around 3.00pm on Saturday 12th April 2008 at the designated place.
Refreshments and cold drinks will be provided, but please bring your own eats and drinks if you wish. From here there are short trails to the 90 Acre Hill Lookout with extensive views of the Gundungurra lands.
We will once again attempt the mirror flash experiment with Katoomba. This year we have our own volunteer who will be flashing from Katoomba (weather permitting)
We extend a welcome to Gundungurra and other Koori people w ho wish to be a part of this event.
Please pass this information on throughout your networks to make this a special event.
Please contact me if you have any queries, suggestions or contributions to make.
This is to invite you all to participate in the annual Koori Flagraising Ceremony at nin garang thurree currobung (The Place Between the Rocks) near Cherry Tree rest area in Gibbergunyah Reserve, to commemorate that this land is and forever will be the spiritual home of the traditional owners, the Gundungurra people.
Friends of Gibbergunyah, your families and friends, are invited to attend the ceremony which will take place around 3.00pm on Saturday 12th April 2008 at the designated place.
Refreshments and cold drinks will be provided, but please bring your own eats and drinks if you wish. From here there are short trails to the 90 Acre Hill Lookout with extensive views of the Gundungurra lands.
We will once again attempt the mirror flash experiment with Katoomba. This year we have our own volunteer who will be flashing from Katoomba (weather permitting)
We extend a welcome to Gundungurra and other Koori people w ho wish to be a part of this event.
Please pass this information on throughout your networks to make this a special event.
Please contact me if you have any queries, suggestions or contributions to make.
recission defeated
friends, the recission motion to stop reclassification of public land until at least after the poll at the next election was soundly defeated at the last council meeting. clr jim mauger went against his previous support for our original motion to vote against the recission. myself, clr clark and clr sara murray were the only ones to support the recission. from this it would appear that other councillors are not really concerned about peoples concerns about losing their land. it is a great concern that they are so fixated on teh leisure centre, right ot wrong. i will bring a motion back again in three months time, which is the soonest i can do so. it seems that the council electrion on the 13th of september is our last chance to correct the imbalance and really make sure the community's concerns are heard.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
we cannot let our land be sold for an election promise
hi all.
well i will give it one more go tomorrow night. i will be moving a motion of recission on the amended motion that was carried at last weeks meeting. i thought we would have more lead time, but it has been listed for wednesday the 5th of march. if we loose it, we will not get another chance to move a motion ofn the subject for 3 months. if i am successful in getting support for a recission i will be moving the following motion. we cannot stand by and watch our precious land be flogged off to fund an election promise! i will fight to the end on this one.
WINGECARRIBEE SHIRE COUNCIL
Notice of Motion No: __________Date: ___
NOTICE OF MOTION
1. THAT a Council poll be held at the next election to determine public support for the construction of a Leisure Centre and the funding model.
2. THAT the wording of the question be determined by Council prior to 31 May
2008.
3. THAT the LEP process continues but the reclassification of all community land be suspended until after the results of the poll are determined by the incoming Council.
4. THAT two tender prices be obtained, for the construction of the leisure Centre; one for a July 2008 Commencement and one for a commencement date in November 2008
5. THAT Council determines a financial model for the construction of the Leisure Centre prior to 31 May 2008 including possible grant funding for consideration by a future Council after the 2008 Council election poll on this matter.
This will give us some certainty that land will not be reclassified before the election and that a new council make the determination based on the results of the poll.
i am hoping that some councillors are reading the community voice and will reconsider their stand. lobbying will again get the message through as will asking questions at question time.
thanks to all those who are passionate about our inheritance for the future and who want to protect our " breathing spaces".
regards,
larry
well i will give it one more go tomorrow night. i will be moving a motion of recission on the amended motion that was carried at last weeks meeting. i thought we would have more lead time, but it has been listed for wednesday the 5th of march. if we loose it, we will not get another chance to move a motion ofn the subject for 3 months. if i am successful in getting support for a recission i will be moving the following motion. we cannot stand by and watch our precious land be flogged off to fund an election promise! i will fight to the end on this one.
WINGECARRIBEE SHIRE COUNCIL
Notice of Motion No: __________Date: ___
NOTICE OF MOTION
1. THAT a Council poll be held at the next election to determine public support for the construction of a Leisure Centre and the funding model.
2. THAT the wording of the question be determined by Council prior to 31 May
2008.
3. THAT the LEP process continues but the reclassification of all community land be suspended until after the results of the poll are determined by the incoming Council.
4. THAT two tender prices be obtained, for the construction of the leisure Centre; one for a July 2008 Commencement and one for a commencement date in November 2008
5. THAT Council determines a financial model for the construction of the Leisure Centre prior to 31 May 2008 including possible grant funding for consideration by a future Council after the 2008 Council election poll on this matter.
This will give us some certainty that land will not be reclassified before the election and that a new council make the determination based on the results of the poll.
i am hoping that some councillors are reading the community voice and will reconsider their stand. lobbying will again get the message through as will asking questions at question time.
thanks to all those who are passionate about our inheritance for the future and who want to protect our " breathing spaces".
regards,
larry
Thursday, February 21, 2008
The continuing saga of...
Hi All,
Please see a letter that I sent over a week ago to the editor. It seems that the SHN these days is somewhat selective with the letters they print. Not like the good old days when peoples opinions were really valued. I continue to try, but it is difficult getting the message out there. The word on the grapevine is also that the Chambers of commerce and land sales interest groups have the ear of the manager of the paper. It has even been suggested that a minority of the Chambers are dictating what should appear on the front page of the paper. Not having the resources or contacts of the intersts groups is a real hurdle.
Given the serious nature of things to come, it would be good if somebody knows of a like minded person who would be interested in talking about a campaign manager for the community action team for the upcoming elections. It is also a good time to be getting an idea if anybody would eb interested in standing on a Community Action Ticket.If you have any ideas, please drop me a line.
I have a notice of motion going up to the meeting of the 27th February. IF SUCCESSFUL, IT WILL ALLOW cOUNCIL TO GO TO A REFERENDUM ON THE LEISURE CENTRE AND LAND SALES. It will be difficult. NCJ also ahs a motion which in itself is a claytons motion. Theya re obviously feeling teh heat and want to put up a smoke screen. I still think the numbers are against us. I would suggest that you encourage friends and family to lobby Clr Gordon Lewis, Jim Mauger and Duncan Gair heavily. This may be our only chance to put the brakes on the sale of public land.
More to come later.
Larry
Dear Sir,
Having been along to a number of Public Hearings in relation to the proposed sale of Public Land, I am only more convinced that this is a totally unacceptable action on Councils part. The message is loud and clear "leave our land alone". This is the legacy that not only previous Councils have put in place for future generations, it is also a legacy bequeathed by private and also developer gifts.
I stand strong on my commitment to fight to the end, the sale of public land. I will not give up or devalue the
Ideals of our community by ignoring their plea for caution and restraint on this matter.
We need to listen, not just give the appearance of listening. We need to actively process the message and
act accordingly. This is the reason why I believe that the only way to show sincerity to the community on this matter, is to go to the people. If any Councillors believes they can act from this point in defiance against the growing voice and calls for caution within the community on the Leisure Centre, then let them continue at their own peril.
Given our current financial dilemma, I am convinced we need to stop, take a breath and consult with the Community on their current thinking on the Leisure Centre. I am also convinced that we need to go to the community and test the feeling on the sale of public land. Although, it is beyond doubt in my mind that the majority of the community are totally opposed to the "flogging off" of our children's inheritance, I am also equally convinced (frighteningly so), that there are those Councillors who will in some strange way justify their own agenda's and ignore the majority.
Therefore the only way to test the theories of those Councillors who remain in denial is to go to a referendum. I believe anything other is deceptive and nothing more than a smoke screen. If those Councillors who feel they are right and the majority really do want to move forward with land sales and a Leisure Centre, then the referendum that I propose will do nothing more than support their arguments, if not, then surely they need to be mature enough to accept that they are wrong. I certainly am!
If the exercise of providing a facility that is indeed for everyone. Lets make sure that everyone actually wants it and agrees that now is the time to do so.
Faithfully yours,
Clr Larry Whipper
Please see a letter that I sent over a week ago to the editor. It seems that the SHN these days is somewhat selective with the letters they print. Not like the good old days when peoples opinions were really valued. I continue to try, but it is difficult getting the message out there. The word on the grapevine is also that the Chambers of commerce and land sales interest groups have the ear of the manager of the paper. It has even been suggested that a minority of the Chambers are dictating what should appear on the front page of the paper. Not having the resources or contacts of the intersts groups is a real hurdle.
Given the serious nature of things to come, it would be good if somebody knows of a like minded person who would be interested in talking about a campaign manager for the community action team for the upcoming elections. It is also a good time to be getting an idea if anybody would eb interested in standing on a Community Action Ticket.If you have any ideas, please drop me a line.
I have a notice of motion going up to the meeting of the 27th February. IF SUCCESSFUL, IT WILL ALLOW cOUNCIL TO GO TO A REFERENDUM ON THE LEISURE CENTRE AND LAND SALES. It will be difficult. NCJ also ahs a motion which in itself is a claytons motion. Theya re obviously feeling teh heat and want to put up a smoke screen. I still think the numbers are against us. I would suggest that you encourage friends and family to lobby Clr Gordon Lewis, Jim Mauger and Duncan Gair heavily. This may be our only chance to put the brakes on the sale of public land.
More to come later.
Larry
Dear Sir,
Having been along to a number of Public Hearings in relation to the proposed sale of Public Land, I am only more convinced that this is a totally unacceptable action on Councils part. The message is loud and clear "leave our land alone". This is the legacy that not only previous Councils have put in place for future generations, it is also a legacy bequeathed by private and also developer gifts.
I stand strong on my commitment to fight to the end, the sale of public land. I will not give up or devalue the
Ideals of our community by ignoring their plea for caution and restraint on this matter.
We need to listen, not just give the appearance of listening. We need to actively process the message and
act accordingly. This is the reason why I believe that the only way to show sincerity to the community on this matter, is to go to the people. If any Councillors believes they can act from this point in defiance against the growing voice and calls for caution within the community on the Leisure Centre, then let them continue at their own peril.
Given our current financial dilemma, I am convinced we need to stop, take a breath and consult with the Community on their current thinking on the Leisure Centre. I am also convinced that we need to go to the community and test the feeling on the sale of public land. Although, it is beyond doubt in my mind that the majority of the community are totally opposed to the "flogging off" of our children's inheritance, I am also equally convinced (frighteningly so), that there are those Councillors who will in some strange way justify their own agenda's and ignore the majority.
Therefore the only way to test the theories of those Councillors who remain in denial is to go to a referendum. I believe anything other is deceptive and nothing more than a smoke screen. If those Councillors who feel they are right and the majority really do want to move forward with land sales and a Leisure Centre, then the referendum that I propose will do nothing more than support their arguments, if not, then surely they need to be mature enough to accept that they are wrong. I certainly am!
If the exercise of providing a facility that is indeed for everyone. Lets make sure that everyone actually wants it and agrees that now is the time to do so.
Faithfully yours,
Clr Larry Whipper
Saturday, February 9, 2008
This appears to be just another off load it now strategy
Media Release
.
Clr Larry Whipper putting his support behind Clr Duncan Gair’s call for a more considered approach to the future of the Bowral Golf Course said “ It would be highly irresponsible to just hand over the Community’s most valuable asset to a private enterprise without at least considering other options and or ways of maintaining the Golf Course for public use”.
There have been claims that Councillors who have adopted this stand are trying to kill Golf in the Highlands. “This is preposterous! The current proposal does very little more than allow the land to be tied up for around 21 years, possibly for private and personal financial gain. It does not absolve Council and therefore the Community from liability and maintenance responsibilities however”.
“This appears to be just another off load it now strategy, by some Councillors. Like the proposed land sales, there has not been a lot of thought about future consequences.
It is knee-jerk stuff and does not resemble an entrepreneurial attitude in the least. The public meeting in Bowral Hall certainly did have a strong position for retention of the Golf course and there may be alternate ways of meeting everybody’s needs. The important thing is that we need to look at the big picture, not just jump to the dictates of self-interest. Council needs to look in detail at the potential impacts of their decisions and listen to the whole community, not just as some Coucillors have pointed out, those who make the loudest noise”.
Council, not necessarily by any fault, is now in a very uncomfortable financial position. “ The Grange experience, if nothing else, should have taught us that rushing in to decisions may not always be the most appropriate thing to do, even if there are promises of gold attached to sales pitch of those who stand to gain personal profit, above the collective good”.
“Like the call to flog off our community land, I believe that the rush to hand over a valuable community asset, with minimal consideration to the potential future consequences is very dangerous. Calls to just get on with it, may be expedient and suit the platform of some, but what remains is the still unanswered question; is it in the community’s overall best interest. It is my hope that the working group, formed by resolution of Council, will be allowed to do it’s job without any vested pressure being bought to bear”.
“It is my hunch however, that we will see a recession motion come forward to echo the rumblings of at least one private developer in the shire on this matter. In the interests of the ratepayer of the shire, I do hope I am wrong
.
Clr Larry Whipper putting his support behind Clr Duncan Gair’s call for a more considered approach to the future of the Bowral Golf Course said “ It would be highly irresponsible to just hand over the Community’s most valuable asset to a private enterprise without at least considering other options and or ways of maintaining the Golf Course for public use”.
There have been claims that Councillors who have adopted this stand are trying to kill Golf in the Highlands. “This is preposterous! The current proposal does very little more than allow the land to be tied up for around 21 years, possibly for private and personal financial gain. It does not absolve Council and therefore the Community from liability and maintenance responsibilities however”.
“This appears to be just another off load it now strategy, by some Councillors. Like the proposed land sales, there has not been a lot of thought about future consequences.
It is knee-jerk stuff and does not resemble an entrepreneurial attitude in the least. The public meeting in Bowral Hall certainly did have a strong position for retention of the Golf course and there may be alternate ways of meeting everybody’s needs. The important thing is that we need to look at the big picture, not just jump to the dictates of self-interest. Council needs to look in detail at the potential impacts of their decisions and listen to the whole community, not just as some Coucillors have pointed out, those who make the loudest noise”.
Council, not necessarily by any fault, is now in a very uncomfortable financial position. “ The Grange experience, if nothing else, should have taught us that rushing in to decisions may not always be the most appropriate thing to do, even if there are promises of gold attached to sales pitch of those who stand to gain personal profit, above the collective good”.
“Like the call to flog off our community land, I believe that the rush to hand over a valuable community asset, with minimal consideration to the potential future consequences is very dangerous. Calls to just get on with it, may be expedient and suit the platform of some, but what remains is the still unanswered question; is it in the community’s overall best interest. It is my hope that the working group, formed by resolution of Council, will be allowed to do it’s job without any vested pressure being bought to bear”.
“It is my hunch however, that we will see a recession motion come forward to echo the rumblings of at least one private developer in the shire on this matter. In the interests of the ratepayer of the shire, I do hope I am wrong
Friday, February 8, 2008
word on the street
With the Steiner School up for sale, it was always likely that a certain developer with many business interests in the shire would be interested. This is particularly so given that he has a number of development investments in very close proximity. He has also shown a very keen interest in acquiring a 21 year lease of the Bowral Golf Course, it is interesting to note what Councillors are pushing this line as well. I have also heard on the grapevine that teh said developer is putting in a tender to build a medical centre on the Bowral Hospital site? If these rumours are at all true and , it continues the fine tradition of a certain developer feeding off existing community and public infrastructure. I for one have a problem with a developer(no matter who) winning private advantage and profit at a public cost. What do you think?
Thursday, February 7, 2008
two blocks in Hampden Park are surplus and expendable
Tonight I attended the Public Hearing re:possible sale of 2 lots in Hampden park and also the Kangaloon Fire Shed. There were about 50 people in attendance. Quite a significant turn out for a small village the size of Robertson.Presentation again echoed other community concerns.Acknowledgement of our forebears who had vision to preserve the land.Anger at Councils arrogance. Concern that Council had empowered a Hampden Park Committee and a consultant, but have ignored all recommendations relating to these two blocks of land. concerns that no money from a land sale would go to Robertson.
Further concerns that in fact 91% of income from the land sales would be spent in Bowral, Mittagong and Moss Vale. 9% in Bundanoon and none in any of our villages. concerns about the lack of acknowledgement that sport (eg) soccer is increasing " We need more space for young people, not less". There is " also a lack of acknowledgement of volunteer efforts.
Councils claim that land to be sold "presupposes that this is truly the case". IT IS A DONE DEAL! Concerns raised about " the elephant in the room". " The land sales are all about the leisure centre. How will this benefit Robertson or any of the villages"? The concept is not environmentally sound and " ignores greenhouse/global warming problems. Any concept that forces people to travel to a central point is not realistic or environmentally acceptable". A 25 klm trip each way to swim for Robertsom residents is unrealistic.
There was, like Bowral on Tuesday night, only one speaker who supported the sales to fund a lesiure centre. In Bowral it was a representative of the Junior water Polo Team. In Robertson it was Cristine Campbell-Jones. Clr Campbell-Jones wife. A resident of Yerrinbool, but " a teacher at Avoca, who is tired of having to put children into cold water pools" She believes that these two blocks in Hampden Park are surplus and expendable. The sale of public land is after all " for the replacement of one asset for another" whats the problem? This line sounding very much like Clr Nick Campbell-Jones words. I wonder how much she knows about land use and needs in Robertson to be able to make the claim that this land is surplus to our needs? Nick wasn't there only myself and Clr Tuddenham. Hopefully Paul is listening. To date he is supportive of land sales and the leisure centre. I was a little concerned that Mrs Campbell-Jones spoke,particularly echoing Nicks position as all Councillors have been asked not to speak at public meetings. Am I out of order, in holding this concern??
Public objection to sale of Kangaloon shed, pointed out that there is no other community land in Kangaloon. The land was probably donated by adjoining farmer. Council proposes to sell land back to an adjoining neighbour as it is too small for any building etc.
The message is still clear. "Leave our land alone".
Further concerns that in fact 91% of income from the land sales would be spent in Bowral, Mittagong and Moss Vale. 9% in Bundanoon and none in any of our villages. concerns about the lack of acknowledgement that sport (eg) soccer is increasing " We need more space for young people, not less". There is " also a lack of acknowledgement of volunteer efforts.
Councils claim that land to be sold "presupposes that this is truly the case". IT IS A DONE DEAL! Concerns raised about " the elephant in the room". " The land sales are all about the leisure centre. How will this benefit Robertson or any of the villages"? The concept is not environmentally sound and " ignores greenhouse/global warming problems. Any concept that forces people to travel to a central point is not realistic or environmentally acceptable". A 25 klm trip each way to swim for Robertsom residents is unrealistic.
There was, like Bowral on Tuesday night, only one speaker who supported the sales to fund a lesiure centre. In Bowral it was a representative of the Junior water Polo Team. In Robertson it was Cristine Campbell-Jones. Clr Campbell-Jones wife. A resident of Yerrinbool, but " a teacher at Avoca, who is tired of having to put children into cold water pools" She believes that these two blocks in Hampden Park are surplus and expendable. The sale of public land is after all " for the replacement of one asset for another" whats the problem? This line sounding very much like Clr Nick Campbell-Jones words. I wonder how much she knows about land use and needs in Robertson to be able to make the claim that this land is surplus to our needs? Nick wasn't there only myself and Clr Tuddenham. Hopefully Paul is listening. To date he is supportive of land sales and the leisure centre. I was a little concerned that Mrs Campbell-Jones spoke,particularly echoing Nicks position as all Councillors have been asked not to speak at public meetings. Am I out of order, in holding this concern??
Public objection to sale of Kangaloon shed, pointed out that there is no other community land in Kangaloon. The land was probably donated by adjoining farmer. Council proposes to sell land back to an adjoining neighbour as it is too small for any building etc.
The message is still clear. "Leave our land alone".
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
these magpies can't vote
Not surprisingly the first two public hearings on the possible sale of land to fund the leisure centre, produced a very strong message. "Leave our land alone". These meetings have been held in Bowral Memorial Hall. The first night was attended about 130 people, last night about 120 attended. I was at last nights meeting along with a number of other Councillors.
The vast majority from teh community spoke about the fact we had a moral obligation to maintain this land for future generations. They also acknowledged the vision of those who have provided these gifts in the past for future generations. "What right do we have to sell the future?" "Were will the birds and animals live", stories of a family of magpies in Westwood Park that would be displaced, by teh sale and certain removal of trees to provide medium density housing."It's a shame, these magpies can't vote, maybe then someone would listen?". My feeling is that those Councillors intent on the sale, would not even listen then.
There was the message also, to counter some Councillors claims that the land was doing nothing. "The land is serving an enormous social and environmental benefit, by just being there". there was a story about a parcel of land in Soma street which is being considered for sale, and teh susequent refusal of building permission due to land slip. This same land is being considered by Council for sale as a building block?
The meetings will continue over the next couple of weeks. Hopefully those who see the quick sale of land as an answer to fulfill an elelection promise, will see beyond their own wants and listen to the message that thsi is not theirs to sell. It is in sacred trust for future generations and that wes hould be providing more breathing spaces and not less!
The vast majority from teh community spoke about the fact we had a moral obligation to maintain this land for future generations. They also acknowledged the vision of those who have provided these gifts in the past for future generations. "What right do we have to sell the future?" "Were will the birds and animals live", stories of a family of magpies in Westwood Park that would be displaced, by teh sale and certain removal of trees to provide medium density housing."It's a shame, these magpies can't vote, maybe then someone would listen?". My feeling is that those Councillors intent on the sale, would not even listen then.
There was the message also, to counter some Councillors claims that the land was doing nothing. "The land is serving an enormous social and environmental benefit, by just being there". there was a story about a parcel of land in Soma street which is being considered for sale, and teh susequent refusal of building permission due to land slip. This same land is being considered by Council for sale as a building block?
The meetings will continue over the next couple of weeks. Hopefully those who see the quick sale of land as an answer to fulfill an elelection promise, will see beyond their own wants and listen to the message that thsi is not theirs to sell. It is in sacred trust for future generations and that wes hould be providing more breathing spaces and not less!
Monday, January 21, 2008
Council denies claim of public mockery. 21.1.08
21 January 2008 - 2:36PM View all news | Send to a friend | Print
Council denies claim of public mockery
By Jacqui Knox
Council has denied claims it is making a mockery of public consultation by calling for tenders to build the $23 million leisure centre before the public finishes commenting on plans.
Eyebrows were raised after an advertisement calling for "expressions of interest" appeared in the Southern Highland News on Wednesday, even though submissions have not closed on the initial concept plan.
Councillor Larry Whipper quickly described the advertisement as "an insult" and said it "reeks of arrogance".
"What’s next - the sale of our public land before submissions end in the belief that we know what the community will say?" he asked.
However, council’s acting general manager Michael Brearley said council was not in fact calling for tenders; instead council was merely inviting builders to register interest.
"The selection of a builder is a two-stage process... the first stage is to invite expressions of interest from builders who may wish to be considered when tenders are invited," he said.
Full story SHN Monday, January 21
SHN.21.1.08
Council denies claim of public mockery
By Jacqui Knox
Council has denied claims it is making a mockery of public consultation by calling for tenders to build the $23 million leisure centre before the public finishes commenting on plans.
Eyebrows were raised after an advertisement calling for "expressions of interest" appeared in the Southern Highland News on Wednesday, even though submissions have not closed on the initial concept plan.
Councillor Larry Whipper quickly described the advertisement as "an insult" and said it "reeks of arrogance".
"What’s next - the sale of our public land before submissions end in the belief that we know what the community will say?" he asked.
However, council’s acting general manager Michael Brearley said council was not in fact calling for tenders; instead council was merely inviting builders to register interest.
"The selection of a builder is a two-stage process... the first stage is to invite expressions of interest from builders who may wish to be considered when tenders are invited," he said.
Full story SHN Monday, January 21
SHN.21.1.08
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
