AN access point to Wodonga Golf Club will remain out of bounds for another six months as a full investigation is carried out into all entry points to the course for motorised cart owners.
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In response to two complaints in a six-month period about damage to a grassed area at the end of Down Court in West Wodonga and no community consultation, large rocks were installed at this location on the course’s back-nine, blocking the path for cart drivers.
It was agreed to carry out the investigation into all access points to the course and keep the rocks in place in Down Court until the probe is completed.
At his final meeting before resigning to enter the Victorian Parliament, Cr Tim Quilty said blocking entry to the course was an overreaction.
“I feel we never should have put the rock there and having done it, we should probably pick it up and take it away again,” he said.
But mayor Anna Speedie said councillors were not armed with all the facts to make an informed decision.
“We’re supposed to keep an open mind, so I don’t know how you actually form an opinion without the information in front of you,” she said.
Wodonga Ratepayers’ Association president Ian Deegan said dragging out the issue for another six months was a “total cop out”.
But the report presented to councillors this month said placing the large rocks at the end of Down Court was a “reasonable solution” and alternative access points did exist nearby.
“The removal of the rocks, despite the suggestion that the easement be clearly demarcated will continue to allow the irresponsible behaviour of driving vehicles over council or privately-owned property, onto the golf course, possibly placing people and or property at risk,” the report stated.
“Other similar issues may have been experienced at other locations and may need a broader investigation and solution.
“This having to be budgeted and prioritised by the council.”
Golfers claimed they would have to travel more than three kilometres on public roads to get to the pro-shop with Down Court blocked off and emergency vehicles would also be denied entry to this part of the course.
The RACV says carts can be used on public roads for no more than two kilometres.
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