THE hills of Wodonga still appear to be alive with the mutterings of discontent.
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For nearly four years, the peaks have been subject to tensions as Wodonga Council has tried to address their future and the various views of those who use the hills.
Anger at how public consultation was done in relation to that document then resulted in further feedback being sought.
Finally after a council election, the formation of an advocacy body, Protect Wodonga Hills, and questions over the role of mountain bikes on Hunchback Hill, an advisory group was created.
Councillor Brian Mitchell also put an unsuccessful motion to the council asking it to call on the Local Government Minister to investigate the entire hills strategy process.
She labelled the strategy's implementation a "debacle" and called for a streamlining of the management of the ridges.
This year's council election was also raised, with Ms Boer suggesting votes will be turned over the running of the hills with particular concern about the roles of Parklands Albury-Wodonga and the Victorian government's environment department.
It is embarrassing for Wodonga Council that such a prominent player within the mountain bike community feels so much frustration after all the work put into the hills.
The council has tried to walk a tightrope between riders and those who think such a sport should not be allowed in the hills.
The reality is, with Protect Wodonga Hills feeling snubbed by the process, the city has generated more alienation than accord.
It is time the council set a clearer direction on what has been a mess throughout its term in office.
