Representing members
The Bega Valley Shire Residents and Ratepayers Association (BVSRRA) was delighted to learn that John Thomas is capable of fighting his own battles, but we think that he could at least get his facts straight while he’s at it (BDN, 4/7).
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As stated publically on numerous occasions, the BVSRRA seeks only to represent the views and interests of its members.
On that basis, we wouldn’t presume to represent Mr Thomas.
Mr Thomas seems offended the BVSRRA has responded to comments reportedly made by Ted Dexter, claiming our criticisms of Mr Dexter as an “employee” of council were unfair.
The BVSRRA understands that Mr Dexter is not an employee of council, but rather a consultant retained by the council to direct aspects of the Littleton Gardens project.
In addition, the BVSRRA should not need to point out to Mr Thomas or anyone else that Mr Dexter has sought to participate in the public debate over Littleton Gardens on numerous occasions, in particular through his comments in the media, at public meetings, to innocent passers-by and through his reported remarks in council documents.
In the circumstances, the BVSRRA thinks it should be open to anyone to comment on Mr Dexter’s views where they concern the expenditure of public funds on a public asset.
Further, in pointing his finger at the BVSRRA over comments contained in the BVSSRA’s correspondence regarding the capacity of the “temporary” ablutions block located in Littleton Gardens, Mr Thomas ignores the fact this question was actually posed by the Bega Chamber of Commerce.
As to his suggestion the council can be expected to display “common sense” and arrange for additional portable facilities to be deployed in Littleton Gardens when significant events are planned, perhaps Mr Thomas should check with the large number of residents/ratepayers who attended the “official opening” of Littleton Gardens just over six months ago - many of whom were caught short because that’s exactly what council didn’t do.
While Mr Thomas might think that the current stainless steel gypsy caravan posing as a public toilet “reflects the importance of Bega as a regional centre”, the BVSRRA does not and once again it calls on BVSC to honour its promise to the community and build a permanent public toilet facility in Littleton Gardens.
John Richardson
BVSRRA secretary
Survey encouraged
The Bega Valley Shire Council has announced a new survey so it can establish how better to communicate with the community.
The council is not perfect in the way it communicates, but if residents of the shire don't undertake the survey how can we ever hope for improvement?
I would encourage as many people as possible to undertake the survey, especially members of the community who believe the council is under performing in the way that it communicates with the community.
It’s easier to whinge than to act, so now is your chance and don't come a-whinging later if you don't!
John Thomas
Bega Valley
Always a champion
Like much of Australia, I watched the Michael Parkinson interview with Ian Thorpe on Sunday night.
Ian’s gentleness, bravery and honesty moved me to write this letter.
Parky’s research and skill in asking polite but probing questions about his recent problems failed to rattle our most famous Olympic star and I felt that Ian answered them most ably.
And what a thrill it was to watch again his greatest triumphs – world champion at age 15 and that 2000 relay had me on the edge of my seat all over again.
In my eyes Thorpey has always been and will remain a champion.
We should continue to support him in his public life and allow him to get on with his private life in private.
I wish him all the best.
Elvie Preo
Bega
