Council Comment

with Charlie Cox

This is my first Mayor's column for 2005 and it is fitting that the first should be a comment on Australia Day. Since its declaration as an official national holiday to coincide with the 1988 Bicentenary, Australia Day has grown to be a special occasion when we can openly celebrate and display our love for, and pride in our country.

Hundreds joined together at Windara last Wednesday to enjoy a beaut Aussie brekkie and to congratulate those who had been nominated for awards in recognition of their contribution to making our community so strong.

Ambassador Kerry Saxby-Junna was a huge success with her typical Australian down-to-earth style. Her world class sporting achievements and ability to live a normal family life afterwards are inspirational.

As Mayor, I extend our thanks and congratulations to Windara, organisers, presenters, service providers and entertainers for their efforts in achieving a splendid celebratory event.

I was particularly taken with the Casino Historical Society display of photographs of historic commercial buildings in Casino. The display gives a timely reminder that this is our Sesquicentenary Year.

Bear in mind, also, that Casino Golf Club is soon to celebrate its centenary. Plans are well in hand and I'm sure that many are eagerly awaiting the publication of the Club's history book.

Last weekend I attended a public meeting at the Ellangowan Hall to gather information on a possible methane gas drilling operation in the district. Information presented by Metgasco, the exploration company, indicated that the proposal is still in the exploration and testing phase. The proposal to set up extraction would only proceed if sufficient gas volumes are found.

I was able to inform the gathering that Richmond Valley Council, like all local government bodies, can become involved when the exploration company lodges a Development Application. Part of Council's study of the proposal would involve seeking advice from government departments, largely on environmental issues.

The Ellangowan public meeting was particularly well handled by the Chairman and those in attendance (80 at least) were positive and considerate in their questioning.

Metgasco's willingness to attend a meeting at a location generally outside their tenement rights area is appreciated. A public information meeting will be arranged by the company at Casino, probably later in February.

And, if you haven't visited Ellangowan Hall recently, you'll get a pleasant surprise... new paint, new kitchen. Well done, Hall Committee and Tursa.

Now that our schools have resumed, a gentle reminder to motorists to take extra care in the vicinity of schools and school buses. Watch for the flashing lights on buses and remember the 40kmh speed limit.

The opening of new headquarters for the Casino State Emergency Services will enable our SES personnel to operate from a functional, purpose built facility. A joint funding arrangement between State Government and Richmond Valley Council, together with a considerable injection by the Casino SES, overcomes the problems of inadequacy associated with the former premises on the old airport site.

Richmond Valley Council appreciates our arrangements with the Casino CMCA Village complex, which helped make the new SES headquarters possible.