Media Release
19 September 2009
The Barrabool Rural Protection Group today welcomed the news that both Motorcycling Australia and the Surf Coast Shire had decided to defer the application to rezone McAdam Park for 60 days, to enable consultation with residents.
“It became clear during our community meeting on Monday night, with 60 residents in attendance, that the proposal to re-zone this land was based on some highly questionable premises”, spokesperson Paul Morgan said. “Residents are delighted that both Motorcycling Australia and the Surf Coast Shire have listened to our request for the re-zoning application to be deferred. In the circumstances, it is the only logical way forward”.
Mr Morgan said that residents welcomed the new consultative approach which has been adopted following the entry of Motorcycling Australia to the project. “To date, we have had to search for information about what was proposed because we have been totally excluded from this process by the authorities”, he said. “Motorcycling Australia has signalled a different approach, which we welcome – the first thing we need is up-to-date information and we can then have a sensible discussion about the implications of the proposal and the potential alternatives for the sport”.
Mr Morgan confirmed that residents remain firmly opposed to any re-zoning or development of the site. “Residents have tolerated motorcycling on McAdam Park, on a small scale, for decades. It is an entirely unsuitable site, however, for any development. There are very clear environmental and social reasons why the proposed increase in scale and activity cannot proceed. The decision by state and local governments to contribute to the purchase of such a valuable piece of land appears to have created an imperative to increase its use so that value for money can be demonstrated, but the problem is that any increase in use is unsustainable in the Barrabool Hills”.
“Residents will use the time available following this deferral to ensure all parties – Motorcycling Australia, Surf Coast Shire, the City of Greater Geelong and the State Government – understand the impost on residents and the environment created by the current use of the site and the fact that any further development would be both inappropriate and unsustainable. Alternatives need to be identified that allow the sport to thrive without placing an intolerable burden on a small rural community and a fragile rural environment”, Mr Morgan said.
For any enquiries please contact the BRPG:
Phone: 03 4201 0270
Post: PO Box 1772, Geelong, VIC, 3220
Email: enquiries[at]brpg.com.au
Tags: barrabool, Information, meeting, News