Not a tantrum or whim
Much has been written and said in the media about the five Albury Councillors who voted not to allow Melbourne Storm rugby league club to use a facility in Albury. I am one of the five and I have received messages both for and against my decision. So perhaps I can clarify how I arrived at my decision. It was not a tantrum or a whim.
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First I would like to acknowledge the hard work that sporting groups do in the community to promote their sport and attract the elites of those sports to our town and region.
There was a lot of information available to Councillors from various sources; the Australian and NSW governments, Melbourne Storm, Biosecurity Australia and Rugby League NSW. But the medical officers of Victoria clearly did not agree with lifting the restrictions and that is why an exemption was sought. Can I also say that it was NSW Health along with Border Force that allowed the Ruby Princess to dock and allow sick passengers to enter our community. So do the experts always get it right?
I am not a doctor but I am a scientist and have read and researched for many hours during this crisis to try to help me in my decision making. That has included reading the opinions of Nobel Prize winner Professor Doherty who has written several books including one called Pandemics, What everyone needs to know.
I do not believe that the decision has "sabotaged" years of hard work. This decision was made during a crisis and I hope people will reflect on all the support Albury City has given to various sporting codes over many years.
I do not agree that Councillors make decisions on events and operational procedures that we know nothing about. As elected representatives, just like the Prime Minister and Health Minister of NSW Brad Hazzard, we try to inform ourselves as to the details of every matter that comes before us. Politicians, federal and state rely on advice from others and, as is evident right now, they don't all agree.
Can I finish by saying that one could look at the AFL as a code that has a different view to the NRL of the way forward. I'm not saying who is right or wrong but I do not believe the situation was as clear cut as some seem to imply. I respect the decision of all Councillors and on this occasion it is one that many do not like. But talk of black bans is unnecessary and counterproductive.
Cr David Thurley, Lavington
Sustain the rage
Surely it is incumbent upon those nearest the despicable abuse of young children to sustain a "righteous anger" and put that anger into useful action for change. Change that in certain areas at least, gets to the sickening root of the problem and even destroys the seeds of growing perversity. To cover an infected wound for the sake of appearances will only result In a toxic septicaemia.
Suzanne Harrison, Tawonga South
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