Time to listen and act
Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser seems to be at pains to point out that she is now listening to community concerns about the future use of the controversial Bath St foreshore site in Toronto.
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In her closing remarks following the successful moving of a motion to defer work on the site, she reassured the packed gallery that they could be confident of proper consultation. But is all as it seems?
At one stage in the convoluted, fractious proceedings one important amendment was put: rezone the Bath Street site as community land and develop the entire site as parkland. Exactly what the community had been campaigning for! The gallery held its collective breath.
When the motion was put, the one predictable vote for it was Cr Wendy Harrison. When "against" was called, all other hands shot up as one. And the mayor's hand went up too. It is hard to reconcile this swift killing of an amendment with words of encouragement about hearing what the community wants. Local elections looming next year muddy the waters. Defer does not mean cease.
It's good to see the Mayor is now keen to consult the community, as long as she hears what that community is saying and acts accordingly.
Peter and Bronwyn Nelson, Kilaben Bay
Also read: Letters to the Editor, August 29
Time to listen to residents
Relief over the deferment of the Bath Street project in Toronto should be tempered with cautious attention.
The prolonged community opposition to the proposed six storey, mixed-use development on foreshore land should be recognised by all councillors. A key role for councillors is to represent and listen to their community.
The community has consistently argued that the Bath Street site be improved as public parkland, and for incorporation of this land with the rest of the foreshore in the master planning process. The 150 people in the gallery at council this week heard that the multi-storey building project has been deferred. This does not mean scrapped.
There is a local election next year. We must all make those standing for election accountable for how they will be representing the wishes of their community. Ask them: Are you in favour of building high rise on the foreshores around the Lake? What strategies do you have in place for getting the Bath Street site rezoned as community land in perpetuity?
Linda Ireland, Toronto
Also read: Letters to the Editor, August 22
Wear a badge in support
The beginning of September this year marks Legacy Week, the annual national appeal to support the families of veterans who have given their life or health for this country.
The Australian Defence Force (ADF) provides a sense of community, with strong bonds, shared values and belonging for serving personnel and their families, which often extends to the ex-serving community. Families are a big part of this community and play a crucial part in supporting veterans, especially in challenging times.
They are often the first to notice when challenges are being faced and act as a source of strength who you can always count on, however, they face their own unique challenges and it is important we all do our bit to help organisations like Legacy who are committed to looking after these families. This year, Legacy Week runs from September 1 to 7 and will fund-raise to support around 60,000 beneficiaries with essential services such as, counselling, special housing, medical, advocacy and social support.
This Legacy Week, I encourage all Australians to show their support for this vital organisation by becoming a volunteer or by purchasing a Legacy badge, and if you buy your badge from one of the many current ADF personnel out selling them, simply say 'thank you for your service'.
Darren Chester MP, Minister for Veterans & Defence Personnel
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