We thought it appropriate to interrupt our series of postings on the recently implemented planning zones with a short story which “tickles our fancy”
The Friends of Caulfield Park (FoCP) are a small dedicated group of volunteers whose goal is to preserve and promote the Park and it’s features. As part of their promotional efforts, FoCP are holding a series (7 in total) of free summer concerts in the little used, historic Bandstand – opened in 1921 by then Prime Minister, Billy Hughes. The concert performers are local artists and free art and craft activities are provided for children.
As the costs of holding and promoting the concerts (which hopefully will become an annual event) are considerable FoCP applied for a Community Grant from Council to supplement their own funding (from members and local sponsorships). Although not without some “hassles”, Council awarded FoCP a grant covering approximately a third of the concert series cost – good job Council.
Just prior to the second concert in the current series, Glen Eira’s Director of Community Services advised FoCP that they
“may not put up posters advertising this public concert around the park as it breaks Council by-laws”. If the posters were put up “they would be taken down immediately” and FoCP “could incur a penalty”. – not a good job Council
In true indomitable Aussie style, FoCP members are now strategically parking their cars, complete with posters in the windows, around the park – good job FoCP
Needless to say GERA
- Supports FoCP in it’s endeavours and encourages our members and readers to attend the concerts – the next concert is 1st December. Concert dates and details
- Is having considerable difficulty reconciling the Director of Community Services’s above decision with
- Council’s Mission Statement of actively fostering a sense of community, and
- The Community Grant purpose of assisting not-for-profit, community based organisations to implement projects and activities which meet identified community priorities and benefit Glen Eira ratepayers, and
- Council’s frequent claim of having “reasonable laws, reasonably enforced”
Glen Eira Residents' Association Inc 