Surf Coast Times
Tuesday 16 March 2010
VOL 8. No 11
GOING GREEN
ENVIRONMENTAL FEATURE > PG 12
www.surfcoasttimes.com.au
FREE WEEKL WEEKLY
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 7-PAGE FEATURE
Lorne central www.coastal-properties.com.au
3A Alpha Terrace, LORNE $1,325,000
• Massive 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 2 living area residence over 3 levels. • Dual street access allows you to enter the property at 2 different levels.
48-PAGE PROPERTY LIFTOUT INSIDE TODAY
• Stunning Lorne Pier and Point views are enjoyed from the open plan kitchen area and large deck.
KEEP IT FREE > PG 69
WINE | FOOD | GIG | S ARTS
• Brilliant internal/external storage and double lock up garage plus car carport area for 3rd vehicle.
• Built by quality local builder in a private location in town and within walking distance to the beach and town amenities. Inspection: By appointment Agent:
Great Ocean Road Real Estate, Lorne
Contact:
Michael Coutts 0438 356 624
FROM PAGE 83
Torquay Commerce and Tourism Association says the town does not need parking meters BY NATHAN HALE
ANY MOTION put to council to introduce parking meters to Torquay will be met with strong opposition from the town’s Commerce and Tourism Association. Councillor Jim Tutt is preparing a motion to be put to Surf Coast Shire Council at its next monthly meeting to investigate the possibility of installing parking meters in the town. The idea comes as a way to ease the burden on ratepayers, who may have to foot the bill for the redevelopment of White’s Beach. As Tutt throws open the idea to council, Commerce and Tourism Association president, Martin Duke, said his group would strongly oppose any push for parking meters. “We are strongly against the idea,” Duke said. “We don’t need a tourist tax… and that’s effectively what it is. “We want to bring tourists here to the town – not make it harder for them to visit.” Duke said he also doubted whether the idea would ever pay for itself. “I don’t know whether it would be a cost-effective option,” he said. “With the initial set-up costs involved and ongoing costs, I don’t think it would pay for itself. “We don’t want the ratepayers paying for the work, but there has got to be some other way around it than putting in a tourist tax – and that’s what this is. “I know it might only be an idea at the moment, but I think there has to be something more viable.” The idea of installing parking meters in Torquay is not new – and has been met previously with concern from citizens. Great Ocean Road Coast Committee installed parking meters in Lorne – which stayed for three summers – however, when they were proposed for Torquay, Jan Juc and Anglesea, residents opposed the move. The opposition to the parking meters on that occasion was because residents were not exempt from paying for parking. Under councillor Tutt’s motion, no payment method for residents has been nominated. Tutt said the motion will be simple in that in will call for an investigation into the viability of parking meters. “I will be proposing a formal motion to investigate the whole cost benefits of installing such a system,” Tutt said. “I am leaving everything open while we investigate all options… In fact, the motion just says
Surf Forecast
State premier John Brumby (centre) and State Member for South Barwon, Michael Crutchfield, were welcomed to Torquay for yesterday’s community cabinet by Torquay P-9 College student, Georgia Crowley. During his visit, Brumby also announced a $400,000 boost for local Photo: SARAH LAWRENCE sport. See full story Page 3. lets research and investigate the whole feasibility, including all the administrative options. “We don’t know if revenue would cover costs of installing the parking machines etc… if it doesn’t cover installation costs you wouldn’t do it.
“But we really have to try and do something to take the burden off the ratepayers. “The idea is to have it all researched and evaluated, then lets take it back to the community and hear the pros and cons.
“It certainly wouldn’t be brought in without any community consultation.” To see what locals think of the parking meters, see Page 4. To have your say on the idea, email letters to the editor at editor@surfcoasttimes.com.au
WED 1-2ft easing, NNW 26° THU 1-2ft inconsistent, WSW 25° FRI 1-2ft building N 24° SAT 2-3ft building SWS 20°
PAGE
Friendly & reliable service Manufacturers warranty Over 20 years experience Motorised blind specialists
Specialising in awnings, motorised and roller blinds, plantation shutters and timber venitians. 2930 Champion 80x258_SCT_V2
Call 5261 9666 for an obligation free quote. Stocking
83