The Phoenix
FREE
newspaper
Free Community Newspaper for the People of the Bushfire Affected Areas Incorporating the tradition of ‘The Evelyn Observer’ (Est. 1873), Kinglake Advertiser, Whittlesea Advertiser, Diamond Valley Advertiser, Yarra Ranges Advertiser and Yea Advertiser
thephoenix.com.au 12 PAGES
PHONE: 1-800 231 311. FAX: 1-800 231 312.
editor@thephoenix.com.au FREE
MONDAY, APRIL 27, 2009
ANGER AT ‘LOCKOUT’
We Will Never Forget
OLD MATES REUNITE Page 2
SURVIVORS WANT TO APPEAR AT ROYAL COMMISSION
WHIT’SEA FOOTY RESULTS Page 12
‘THANKS MATE’ DAY Page 3
ANZAC DAY MESSAGE Page 4
PHOTO: TEN NEWS
RESIDENTS in the Black Saturday fire-affected region say they are being denied the opportunity to appear before the Royal Commission that was touted by Premier John Brumby as being the ‘people’s’ inquiry. Bernard Teague (pictured), Chairman of the Commission, last week outlined the work of the hearing over the next year, and says written submissions may still be made by affected parties.
PHOTO: ASH LONG
● A sailor from HMAS Cerberus forms part of the Catafalque Party at the Kinglake Dawn Service held on Saturday at St Peter’s Church on the Bald Spur. Several hundred people attended the poignant service held in conjunction with the Yea-Kinglake RSL. More details and colour pictures inside.
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Mr Teague and his two fellow Commissioners have made informal visits to a large number of communities in the bushfire regions over past weeks. Residents in each location were invited to speak with Commisisoners, and raise matters for discussion. But State Opposition Leader Ted Baillieu says the Commission has been hijacked by government agencies and big business. He said the Premier, John Brumby, has pledged that everyone would be able to have their say. Mr Brumby said it was not to place of a Premier to tell a Royal Commission how to conduct its business. Tim Tobin SC, who is leading a class action, alleges that five of the fires started as a result of poorly-maintained powerlines, He told the Commissioners that residents are missing out on an oportunity to appear and testify.
YOUR FREE WEEKLY COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
● Resident Colin Wood, outside the County Court, asks how citizens can get a voice.