Peninsula No 35
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News
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PAPER INC Print Post Approved PP255003/04388 15 January 2002
Councillor Doyle claims vindication Cr Craig Doyle has claimed Gosford Council's decision to refuse a development application for a new dwelling at the Ferry Master's Cottage site in Wagstaffe has been "vindicated" in the Land and Environment Court. “Our view that this development was unsuitable for Wagstaffe has been upheld by the court,” Cr Doyle said. Cr Doyle said the owner, Mr. Michael Hall, took Gosford Council to court to appeal the refusal of the development application (DA), which prohibited the erection of his development for the site. The DA was refused initially on a number of grounds, including the existing cottage was the subject of possible heritage listing, the impact of the development on the heritage significance of the site, and whether the development was an over development of the site, said Cr Doyle.
Subsequently, the owner had the cottage demolished, coincidently on the same day as submissions closed for heritage listing. Council in deciding to defend its refusal had to rely upon issues other than heritage, said Cr Doyle. “Certainly the demolition caught everyone by surprise and we were all disappointed, but the refusal wasn’t all about heritage.” Commissioner JS Murrell ruled: “On the basis of my merit assessment, the application fails for the reason that the design and consequential bulk of the building is not in keeping with the character of the Wagstaffe locality and it will adversely impact on the scenic quality of the area when viewed from Brisbane Water.” Cr Doyle said he was very pleased with the courts decision and indicated that the matter did not end there. “Council is still actively pursuing the prosecution against the alleged illegal demolition and
Ferry service operators are sought The Davistown ferry is expected to resume service shortly, according to the Member for Gosford Mr Chris Hartcher. "The Davistown ferry is an invaluable service, taking senior citizens to Woy Woy to shop and allowing residents easy access to the Peninsula. "Thanks to the residents, 400 of whom turned out at a public meeting I held recently to look at ways the Service could be restored, the process is now well and truly underway," Mr Hartcher said. "I am advised that expressions of interest for ferry
operators will close on January 18. "I was pleased to learn that already there has been a lot of interest by service providers. "This is no doubt a recognition of the popularity and regular patronage the ferry service has always had in the local community." Mr Hartcher said that the Department of Transport had indicated it expected the successful operator should be known shortly thereafter. "I am hopeful the service will resume in as short a time as possible," Mr Hartcher said. Press release, January 11
The Ferrymaster's Cottage, Wagstaffe prior to its demolition last year seeking maximum penalty if found guilty. "The issue of heritage, and the
loss of heritage, on the coast are very important. Strong arm tactics will not be tolerated by our
community.” Media release, January 10
Drug information forum The Peninsula Community Drug Action team will hold an information forum on "Drugs - Shattering the Myths" on Thursday, February 7. The forum for parents, young people and community members will be held from 7.30pm to 9.30pm at the Woy Woy campus of Brisbane Water Secondary College. Hosted by Andy Maclean from 2GO, presentations will be made by Family Drug Support CEO Mr Tony Trimmingham, and Mr Paul Dillon from the National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre of the University of New South Wales. “We think we know everything there is to know
about drugs, but if I were to ask you 'what is a drug' would you be able to answer that? "Most people would not," said Pastor John McCaskie, chair of the Peninsula Community Drug Action Team. “People need to take the time to understand the issues around drug use. “The key to dealing with drugs – is being informed,” said Pastor McCaskie. Those attending the forum will have the opportunity to ask questions. Light Refreshments will be served. Press release, January 11
Night benefits disabled riders The Combined Peninsula Service Clubs will hold an entertainment night to raise funds for the Riding for the Disabled at the Everglades Country Club on Tuesday, January 29, starting at 6pm. The feature entertainer is Gary Kirkby, better known as The Man from Snowy River, who will be supported by local singer and
Australia Day
guitarist Krystal Keller. Gary Kirkby plays guitar, sings, cracks whips and tells stories in a characteristic Australian style. Krystal Keller is establishing herself as a vocalist of the country-rock style, performing the standards as well as her own compositions. Funds raised will be used to build and equip a new indoor arena at Somersby for Riding for
the Disabled. During the evening, a raffle will be held of a quilt with a horse theme made by local quilter Jenny Brock. Tickets at $28.50 are available at Nelson’s Chiropractic Centre, 80 Victoria St Woy Woy. Phone 4344 3599 for more details. Press release, January 11