Tralee, Last Place for Houses - Minister

Tuggeranong Community Council Newsletter Issue 12: February 2012 Tralee, last place for houses - Minister

―In 2006 The Independent Review Panel into Queanbeyan Land Release said residential use of land affected by aircraft noise should be avoided and that Tralee should not be considered for residential development. The Federal Government‘s own Aviation White Paper released in December 2009 says there are a range of activities that are likely to be incom- patible with long-term operations of an airport. These included long term residential development,” he quoted.

Mr. Albanese said he recognised and agreed with all the issues and concerns raised. “I know all about aircraft noise…”

―Tralee is the ‗last place‘ I would consider for residential development,‖ he said. L to R: Dug Holmes, Darryl Johnston, Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Hon. Anthony Albanese, Member for Canberra, Gai Brodtmann MP and Colin Petrie. ―I know all about aircraft noise, I live di- rectly under the flight path to Sydney Airport. In respect to aircraft noise, I will ―Tralee is the last place I would consider Mr. Johnston said the TCC believed a be releasing a report soon and asking for a residential development,‖ the Minister residential development at Tralee would community input about noise levels and for Infrastructure and Transport, Anthony eventually lead to flight paths for Can- their impact.‖ Albanese, stated at a recent meeting berra Airport being relocated over Tug- with a delegation from the Tuggeranong geranong and other areas of Canberra ―I also recognise that Canberra Airport is Community Council (TCC). and Queanbeyan that do not already the only airport between Brisbane and experience aircraft noise. Melbourne that does not have a curfew,‖ ―I am on the record stating my opposition Mr. Albanese said. to building homes at Tralee and I am “Tralee is the last place I happy to go on the record again,‖ Mr. ―I have made my position clear to the Albanese told the delegation. would consider for NSW Planning Minister, Brad Hazzard, residential development.” as recently as this month. But the final Mr. Albanese met the delegation in his decision rests with him. I can only hope Parliament House offices. It was led by He highlighted departmental advice and that he will make the right decision on TCC President, Darryl Johnston and government reports going back to 2002 Tralee,‖ he said. included TCC Planning Committee that recommended against residential

Chairman, Dug Holmes and Planning development at Tralee and warnings ―I have also spoken to the ACT Chief Committee member, Colin Petrie. over aircraft noise. Minister, Katy Gallagher, about this issue

and we both agree that the best option The meeting was organised by the Mem- Mr. Johnston said in 2002 Air Services for Tralee is that it be developed as an ber for Canberra, Gai Brodtmann, who Australia wrote to the Queanbeyan City extension to the Hume Industrial Estate,‖ also attended along with Mr. Albanese‘s Council warning that aircraft noise ―is he added. senior staff and officers from his Depart- likely to become a major issue for future Continued on page 2 ment. residents if Tralee goes ahead.”

Tuggeranong Community Council Working with our community www.tuggcc.com Page 1

From page 1 CONTENTS PAGE Lake cleanup Mr. Johnston agreed saying that the TCC believed industrial development at campaign Tralee would help generate employment Tralee, last place for houses - Minister 1 and was the best solution to the present impasse. Lake cleanup campaign 2

Apology to TCC 3 He said he also understood that Can- berra Airport had offered to fund the in- What they said about the TCC 3 frastructure required to attract new in-

Farewell to Tuggeranong‘s top cop 4 dustry to the area.

Festival secures centenary funding 4 ―It would also go hand-in-hand with the ACT Government‘s plans for an employ- Roadside drug testing boosted 5 ment corridor from Symonston to Hume,‖ Lanyon feedback 5 he said.

TCC Top Issues Survey 5 ―However,‖ Mr. Johnston said, ―it would require upgraded roads to handle any 99 and counting 5 The Tuggeranong Community Council increase in traffic volume.‖ (TCC) is organising a clean up around Greens launch Budget wish-list for Tuggeranong 6 Lake Tuggeranong as part of the annual In a letter to the TCC, dated 25 Novem- Clean Up Australia Campaign. Scooter survey 6 ber 2011, the Director General of NSW

Planning and Infrastructure, Sam East Greenway traffic debated 7 TCC President, Darryl Johnston, said the Haddad, said Mr. Hazzard has indicated current state of Lake Tuggeranong has he will make a decision on Tralee in Lib bid to protect police 7 been highlighted as a priority issue for early 2012. the Council in 2012. Mr. Johnston said Pedestrians, the forgotten road users 8 we now have an opportunity to do some- Mr. Haddad said both he and the Minis- South campaign gets big house launch 9 thing about it and draw public attention to ter have noted Tuggeranong Community the state of the Lake. 55plus kicks off in style 9 Council‘s opposition to the Tralee pro-

posal and concerns over aviation policy Charity bin mess meeting 10 ―We will make a start on Sunday, 4 and the potential for land use conflict. He March during Clean Up Australia day,‖ News in Brief 10 said he also noted the TCC had met with he said. officers from the Department‘s Southern Inaccurate images anger residents 11 Region Planning Team. Mr. Johnston said he has registered the Don‘t Forget 11 TCC Team and Lake Tuggeranong as a ―On the Minister‘s behalf I seek to assure Clean Up site. People can register to be you that all relevant issues of environ- part of the Team and a Clean Up Austra- mental concern will inform the Minister‘s lia volunteer by visiting; http:// decision,‖ Mr. Haddad said. www.cleanupaustraliaday.org.au/

Tuggeranong+Lake Meanwhile the TCC has written to the

NSW Premier, Barry O‘Farrell, question- ―I also extend an invitation to other coming how his Planning Minister can possi- munity organisations and groups in the bly allow South Tralee to proceed given Tuggeranong Valley to join us on the his statements suggesting Canberra day. The plan is to meet at the Tugger- could become Sydney‘s second airport. anong Community Centre in Cowlishaw

Street Tuggeranong at 9.30am and split Mr. O'Farrell was quoted in the media as into two groups each making their way saying the best way of dealing with the around the lake and meeting at the drop increasing pressure on Sydney Airport is off point at the Tuggeranong Sea Scout to build a second airport in Canberra and hall,‖ he said. link the two cities by high speed rail.

―The Sea Scouts will be doing their own The ‗Second Sydney Airport‘ tag has clean up in the Lake. There, we will join been rejected by the ACT Government the Sea Scouts for a sausage sizzle as and the Canberra Airport itself, but both they raise funds to get a contingent to believe Canberra can play a role in eas- the next Scout Jamboree,‖ Mr. Johnston ing the pressure on Sydney if both cities said. were serviced by high speed rail.

Volunteers are advised to wear sturdy In its letter to the Premier the TCC says, enclosed footwear, strong protective ―given your comments in the media on gloves, a hat, sunglasses or other eye Canberra‘s future role in supporting Syd- protection, sun screen and bring antisep- ney Airport, the TCC now looks forward tic hand wash and a full water bottle on to an announcement soon from your the day. Rubbish bags will be supplied. Planning Minister rejecting proposals to For more information visit build homes at South Tralee.‖ www.tuggcc.com

Tuggeranong Community Council Working with our community www.tuggcc.com Page 2 Apology to TCC What they said about the TCC

ALP Member for Brindabella, John Har- The following ACT Legislative Assembly Hansard extracts are from debate by greaves, has apologised to the Tugger- MLAs over comments made by John Hargreaves about the TCC. anong Community Council following his comments in the Legislative Assembly Katy Gallagher (Chief Minister): “The the Tuggeranong Community Council on 15 February in which he described views expressed by Mr Hargreaves were does show that those views are not the Council as a geriatric mob and a self views he made as an individual. They shared. And I think it is worth pointing help group. are not views supported by the govern- that out. I do agree with Mr Smyth. I will ment. I meet regularly with Darryl Johns- note that, particularly under Darryl In a statement to the Assembly, Mr. Har- ton. I think I have got a meeting coming Johnston as chair of the Tuggeranong greaves said, ―Last Wednesday evening up with him in another 10 days time. We Community Council, they have brought a I was subjected to the usual barrage of value the input and advice that he and very strong level of professionalism to catcalls from those opposite during a his team at the Tuggeranong Community what they do.” debate on Tuggeranong. Foolishly, Mr. Council provide on a range of matters, Speaker, I rose to their bait and returned whether it be about planning in Tugger- Brendan Smyth (Lib Brindabella) “It is fire, and I apologise to the Assembly for anong or something else. I think one of a community group charged through doing so. In returning fire I made com- the recent discussions we had was their own charter with standing up for ments about the Tuggeranong Commu- around air quality in Tuggeranong. We their community and representing their nity Council which caused offence to the will continue those very good relation- views. It is a community group that the Council. I have spoken to Mr. Johnston, ships with the Tuggeranong Community government accept does that job well the President of the Council, and written Council.” because they fund them to assist them to to him. In that conversation and letter I do that job. It is a community group extended my apology for that offence Zed Seselja (Leader of the Opposi- made up of younger people, older peo- and I neglected to extend that apology to tion): ―Just briefly, I would like to counter ple, retired people, working people, peo- the wider Council and I‘d like to publicly Mr Hargreaves’s attack on the Tugger- ple representing environmental interests, do so now.‖ anong Community Council. I think the people representing business interests, Tuggeranong Community Council does people representing various areas in the In his letter Mr. Hargreaves congratu- an outstanding job…..The Canberra Lib- electorate—whether it be south-east lated Mr. Johnston, on his Presidency. erals have great respect for the work that Tuggeranong or whether it be Kambah the Tuggeranong Community Council people—people with an interest in the ―I am now aware that the Council has does and for the Tuggeranong commu- amenity of their city, people with an inter- indeed broadened its focus and attention nity as a whole.” est in furthering their part of the city, peo- onto a greater range of community is- ple who volunteer.” sues than was the case in the past. I Brendan Smyth (Lib Brindabella): look forward to seeing the continuation ‗The Community Council has changed Amanda Bresnan (Greens Brinda- of the reforms you have initiated well into over the last three years, and I would like bella): “The TCC have always been very the future,‖ Mr Hargreaves said. to compliment Darryl Johnston on the respectful of people’s views at any of the way that he has handled the Community meetings I have been to. They have also ―The information you gave me has Council in the last three years. They been very respectful to all the MLAs that shown that the Council is a very different have actually changed their Constitution. have attended, and that is with Darryl organisation to that of the past and for They have actually worked harder to get Johnston as president. As I said—and I this, you and your Committee should into the community.” said this in the censure debate, too—he take pride. My perspective of the Council has instituted some excellent processes has changed since my conversation with Joy Burch (ALP Brindabella): I take for the council. They have a very strong you,‖ Mr Hargreaves added. this opportunity, Madam Assistant constitution and also respectful meeting Speaker, to reiterate my support for the procedures. That is an excellent thing Mr Johnston said the letter and Mr Har- Tuggeranong Community Council and, that has been instituted. All members of greaves‘s apology will be tabled in full at indeed, other community organisations the Tuggeranong Community Council the next TCC meeting on Tuesday, that I meet with regularly. The govern- should be congratulated on this, because 6 March where they will be considered ment works closely and meets regularly they are changes that all members have by all members. with the Tuggeranong Community been a part of and have instituted.” Council and with all community organisa- He said he had also received a tele- tions. As the President of the Tugger- Joy Burch (ALP Brindabella): “I will phone call from the Chief Minister, Katy anong Community Council, Darryl Johns- continue to attend the Tuggeranong Gallagher, in which she apologised to ton, would attest, the Chief Minister and I Community Council to support the good him and the TCC. It was followed by a meet regularly with him to discuss a people of Tuggeranong. I am also very letter in which she said the ACT Govern- range of issues important to the Tugger- pleased to support Darryl Johnston in ment did not share the views expressed anong community, and it has always any activity that he puts forward to us.” earlier in the Assembly by Mr Har- been made abundantly clear to the Tug- greaves. geranong Community Council that my John Hargreaves (ALP Brindabella) “I door is always open for them, and they have spoken to Mr. Johnston, the Presi- ―I value both your personal commitment often exercise this invitation. We do not dent of the Council, and written to him. In and the Council‘s active role in the Tug- necessarily have to agree with every- that conversation and letter I extended geranong Valley and on matters of inter- thing they say or they do not have to my apology for that offence and I ne- est across the ACT. We have developed agree with everything we say. Most peo- glected to extend that apology to the a strong relationship over the past few ple do not expect that.” wider Council and I’d like to publicly do years and I know that you also work well so now.” with other MLAs as well as the local Fed- Amanda Bresnan (Greens Brinda- eral Member,‖ Ms Gallagher said. bella): ―Indeed, the very fact that the Source: ACT Legislative Chief Minister does meet regularly with Assembly Hansard.

Tuggeranong Community Council Working with our community www.tuggcc.com Page 3 Farewell to Tuggeranong’s top cop Festival secures centenary funding

Town Centre Park Entrance

ACT Chief Minister Katy Gallagher today announced that the Tuggeranong Com- munity Festival is among the latest initiatives to benefit from the ACT Govern- ment's Centenary Community Initiatives Fund.

With just one year to go until Canberra's 100th birthday the Festival joins nine TCC President, Darryl Johnston, presents Sgt Rod Anderson with a parting gift other exciting activities that have now on behalf of the Council. been supported through the Fund.

The Tuggeranong Community Council tools. Sergeant Anderson has been of "The ACT Government is offering a total has paid tribute to Officer in Charge great service to the TCC and the Tugger- of $1 million to community-driven pro- (OIC) of Tuggeranong Police Station, anong Community. We are sorry to see jects that showcase both what is new Sergeant Rod Anderson. him go,‖ Mr. Johnston said. and what is already special about our nation's capital," the Chief Minister said. After 2 and-a-half years in the position, Sergeant Anderson said it had been a Sergeant Anderson has been promoted pleasure to serve the Tuggeranong com- "The Tuggeranong Community Festival to the position of Officer-in-Charge, Traf- munity and the TCC. has been granted $16,693 from the Cen- fic Operations, Emergency Management tenary Community Initiatives Fund to- and Planning. ―The most memorable part of being OIC wards the Footsteps to Follow project, at Tuggeranong was the opportunity to which will recognise the contribution of His new responsibilities will include see the dedication and professionalism 100 Tuggeranong residents, community among others, the Collision Investigation of our members when performing their groups, associations and businesses," and Reconstruction Team, the newly duties. I was continually proud of their the Chief Minister added. formed Road Safety Operations Team achievements and humbled by the level that incorporates the RAPID and Road- of commitment and motivation they "Members of the community will have the side Random Drug Testing Teams, showed towards protecting the commu- opportunity to nominate worthy recipi- Emergency Management, which involves nity,‖ he said. ents who will be recognised with a com- liaison with other emergency services, memorative plaque in Tuggeranong government and non-government agen- ―Likewise, the interactions I had with the Town Park, while a time capsule will also cies and planning for major events and community, in forums like the TCC, be buried on site,‖ she said. official tours. added to the satisfaction I felt for the role. I appreciated the opportunity to "I am pleased we are able to offer even After reporting on local police activities in speak to the members each month and I more organisations the opportunity and Tuggeranong for the final time on 7 Feb- learnt a number of lessons from those support to mark this important milestone ruary, TCC President, Darryl Johnston, meetings. They are an important part of in our history, and I urge any other inter- presented Sergeant Anderson with a gift our community's representation, which is ested individuals, community, arts, sport- and paid tribute to his long support for why the attendance of a number of MLAs ing or cultural groups and clubs to con- the TCC. at each meeting is impressive.‖ sider applying for support to stage their Centenary activities," the Chief Minister ―Sergeant Anderson has provided the ―The TCC is held in high regard and this concluded. TCC with detailed reports on police ac- is reflected in the MLAs and ACT Polic- tivities in the Valley and has made him- ing's representation at meetings and in To date, the Centenary's community self available to meet with me face to general,‖ Sergeant Anderson said. fund has received a total of 39 applica- face on a number of occasions.‖ tions for a wide range of projects. The Before departing Sergeant Anderson fund remains open until 30 June 2012 or ―He also provided advice to TCC mem- introduced the new Officer in Charge of until all available monies have been bers during discussion and introduced Tuggeranong Police Station, Sergeant committed. demonstrations of police equipment and Daryl Neit. Source: Media Release

Tuggeranong Community Council Working with our community www.tuggcc.com Page 4 Roadside drug Lanyon TCC Top Issues testing boosted feedback Survey

Minister for Police and Emergency Ser- ACT Minister for Arts and Member for The Tuggeranong Community Council vices, Simon Corbell, has announced the Brindabella, Joy Burch, is seeking public (TCC) has launched an online survey to number of officers trained to conduct input into greater use of the Lanyon Heri- identify issues that concern Valley resi- roadside drug testing would be increased tage Precinct for new community based dents. to enable a multipronged approach to activities. roadside operations. The survey results will help form the Ms Burch said the historic homestead Council‘s agenda for 2012 and provide a Mr. Corbell said that the new team would and stunning grounds were an important focus on those issues the TCC will high- provide the community with multi-skilled part of Canberra's history, and the ACT light during the ACT Election Campaign. police officers specifically trained to tar- Government was keen to hear the com- get and remove high risk takers from our munity's views on how it could be better All ACT Community Councils are in the roads. utilised. process of drawing up lists of issues of concern in their respective communities. "The new team combines the RAPID "Lanyon is a popular place with locals The TCC‘s 2012 Top Issues Survey is (Recognition and Analysis of Plates and visitors to Canberra who are looking part of that Combined Community Coun- Identified) and the six-month-old Ran- to immerse themselves into our region's cil process. dom Roadside Drug Testing (RRDT) heritage, and I encourage anyone with team - increasing the number of officers ideas about what other activities the Pre- The issues listed in the survey are those able and trained to conduct random cinct could host to have their say in this nominated by TCC members at a recent roadside drug testing from two to nine," consultation process," Ms Burch said. meeting. Residents are asked to rank he said. each issue in order of importance and to "The Lanyon Christmas Carols, Australia nominate any other issues they consider Since ACT Policing began operating Day Picnic and Easter Egg Hunt are important to them. random roadside drug testing in May popular annual events. The grounds and 2011, more than 300 drug tests have gardens are also well used for family and A wide range of issues have been high- been conducted with ten returning posi- social events such as picnics and cele- lighted in the survey including a shortage tive roadside tests. Of the ten, two have brations including marriages, birthday of disabled parking, infrequent bus ser- been charged and convicted. and anniversary gatherings,‘ she said. vices, vandalism, graffiti, law and order, protection of our heritage, pollution, "The initial months focused on establish- Ms Burch said the Lanyon precinct also housing and medical services. The Sur- ing robust governance, training and de- included significant Aboriginal sites and vey is available by clicking here or visit- veloping operational requirements, in- European heritage dating back to the ing: www.tuggcc.com cluding the purchase of drug kits and 1840s. other equipment," Mr. Corbell said. "Following the ACT Heritage Council's "The Road Safety Operations team is endorsement of a Conservation Manage- 99 and counting now in place to expand our road safety ment Plan for the site in 2011, I am keen efforts. The public can expect to see the to move ahead to explore options for Monday, 12 March is Canberra‘s 99th team out and about, setting up roadside further community use of this precious birthday and the milestone heralds just operations targeting drink driving, drug heritage precinct and the opportunities it one year until the Centenary of Can- driving and unregistered/unlicensed driv- has on offer," Ms Burch said. berra. ers - a multipronged approach to improving road safety,‖ he said. A public workshop will be held between 2 As the countdown to the big 100 contin- -4pm Saturday 10 March at Lanyon to ues, planning is underway for a year of "In 2011 we recorded the lowest road toll discuss ideas and opportunities for future memorable celebrations to mark the - single digits - in more than 50 years. To community activities amongst the anniversary. date, we haven't recorded a road death grounds and available venues. in the ACT in almost 12 months. That's a Creative Director, Robyn Archer AO is significant achievement,‖ he said. Information about the consultation will be leading the team preparing a year-long provided at the next Tuggeranong Com- program that will include some new and "Random roadside drug testing is a key munity Council meeting from 7:30pm, exciting programs, as well as showcase strategy in the ACT Government's road Tuesday 6 March 2012 upstairs at the the very best of what goes on in Can- safety approach and like drink driving is Southern Cross Club, Tuggeranong. berra every year – there will be some- about removing impaired drivers from thing for everyone. our roads - drivers that pose the highest For more information visit risk," Mr. Corbell concluded. www.museumsandgalleries.act.gov.au / Canberra‘s place as a lively and innova- lanyonconsult or phone Duncan Marshall tive 21st century city will be showcased Source: Media Release on 6287 1027. during 2013. The Centenary of Canberra team invites you to re-visit and re- Note: The Tuggeranong Community Written submissions can be made until imagine your national capital and 2013 Council successfully campaigned for the Friday 23 March 2012. will be the perfect opportunity. introduction of Random Roadside Drug Testing in 2009 and 2010. Source; Media Release A glimpse of the 2013 program will be launched on 12 March 2012, visit www.canberra100.com.au for more information.

Tuggeranong Community Council Working with our community www.tuggcc.com Page 5 Greens launch Budget wish-list Scooter survey for Tuggeranong

―These are some of the longer term chal- lenges we face in Canberra,‖ Ms Bresnan added.

The ACT Greens‘ transport bids call for approximately $10m of investment and include:

Expanded ACTION bus services The Australian Competition and Con- into Tuggeranong, with a focus on sumer Commission (ACCC) and a num- linking residents quickly to the ber of community organisations have Erindale Group Centre, where combined in a national survey onto the there is proposed to be a new bus use and safety of mobility scooters. station and new Blue Rapid ser-

vices. Commissioner with the ACCC, Sarah Greens Member for Brindabella, Court said the number of people injured Amanda Bresnan The new services should provide 15-30 in accidents associated with mobility minute frequency through suburbs such scooters was increasing. The ACT Greens have made bids to the as Monash and Isabella Plains, Gowrie,

Government‘s 2012-13 Budget, calling Chisholm and Richardson, Fadden, Mac- ―That is why the ACCC is working with a for significant new investment into trans- arthur and Gilmore. range of stakeholders, including the port improvements for Tuggeranong. NRMA, to look more closely at the is- ―Park and Ride‖ space for the sue,‖ she said. The initiatives would mean more fre- Erindale Centre, to allow commut- quent and faster buses, a better walking ers to park for free and catch a ―The aim of the survey is to provide more and cycling environment, and an easing bus for the remainder of their of driving and parking congestion. information about how people are buying journey. and using mobility scooters and what

ACT Greens Transport spokesperson training they also receive. Motorised and Member for Brindabella, Amanda New peak hour express services mobility scooters are increasingly being Bresnan, said it was unacceptable that from Tuggeranong to link resi- used by older people to help maintain Tuggeranong had missed out on trans- dents to the City and Parliamen- their independence and provide physical, port improvements. tary Triangle – taking advantage social and health benefits.‖ of the most common commuting ―Tuggeranong is currently home to al- pattern in Canberra (travelling Ms Court said CHOICE, EnableNSW most 90,000 residents, which is over a from Tuggeranong to work at and Vision Australia are also supporting quarter of the ACT population,‖ Ms Barton/Parkes). the national survey. Bresnan said. The services would use the soon-to-be ―The results will help us to better under- ―Yet in the ACT Government‘s most re- constructed ―Park and Ride‖ at Calwell, stand safety issues surrounding mobility cent expansion of the ACTION bus net- allowing residents in the vicinity to park scooters and their users and target any work – ―Network 2012‖ – no new ser- for free at the site and catch an express future work in this important area,‖ she vices had been included for Tugger- bus. said. anong,‖ said Ms Bresnan. Upgraded pedestrian and cycling NRMA Director, Coral Taylor said the ―When the public transport services and access around the Erindale Cent- coalition of organisations involved in the active transport infrastructure isn‘t there, tre to support walkers and cy- survey are all committed to gaining a people have few choices when it comes clists. comprehensive understanding of how to transport,‖ she said. The upgrades will also improve the people use mobility scooters in order to amenity of the Centre and the efficacy of make them safer. ―The Government should be providing the public transport system. alternative transport options, as there are ―Safe mobility for all road users is an many people in Tuggeranong who would Construction of a dedicated pe- important issue for our NRMA Members,‖ like to take public transport or walk and destrian/cycle path along Erindale Ms Taylor said. cycle more.‖ Drive linking Erindale to Tugger- anong Town Centre. ―The NRMA has called for people to par- ―A good public transport system is also ticipate in the mobility scooter survey about serving those people who don‘t This will allow residents along this corri- through its member magazine, Open have a car, such as older residents, peo- dor to travel by foot and bike to the Road, which generated great interest ple who are unable to drive and young Group Centres. among older members.‖ people‖. Source: Media Release The survey closes 5 April 2012. For fur- ―Sustainable transport makes economic ther information visit: http:// sense - it pays off by improving mobility www.mynrma.com.au/motoring/ and equity, and decreasing congestion education/driving-alternatives.htm and pollution. Source: PS News and Media Releases

Tuggeranong Community Council Working with our community www.tuggcc.com Page 6 East Greenway traffic debated Lib bid to protect

Other issues highlighted during the police meeting included the urgent need for improved lighting for the lake foreshore Leader of the Opposition, Zed Seselja areas and redesign of the lake foreshore will introduce legislation designed to pedestrian/cycle path. protect police from assault in the line of duty. Mr. Corbett addressed issues concerning bus services. Residents expressed dis- Mr Seselja released an exposure draft of satisfaction of the current timetable, his Crimes (Offences Against Police) which they said did not adequately serve Amendment Bill last year that outlined East Greenway. They also highlighted the proposed changes. the inconvenient locations of bus stops and the lack of footpaths leading to ―I talked about the importance of backing The residents of East Greenway commu- them. up our police officers, who are asked to nity met recently to consider a report on take risks on our behalf to protect the the completion of a traffic survey of Mrs. Flint said there is no bus service community,‖ he said. Mortimer Lewis Drive. within the suburb of East Greenway so all residents must walk to the highway for ―However, we see headline after head- The meeting was held on 16 February at public transport. line of assaults on police, and repeated the Tuggeranong Library Community reluctance on behalf of ACT Labor to Room and chaired East Greenway Resi- ―Residents are encouraged to use more respond,‖ he added. dents Group convenor, Beverley Flint. public transport by the ACT Government therefore a reliable and frequent bus ―This year, I will bring the legislation to It was attended by Roads ACT Director, service is needed to serve East Green- the Assembly that will make that protec- Tony Gill and ACTION Bus representa- way residents.‖ tion a reality.‖ tive, Steven Corbett. Brindabella MLAs Brendan Smyth and ―It‘s a reasonable change, it is a needed The audience included representatives Amanda Bresnan have offered to write to change and I call on my colleagues to of Lake Tuggeranong Sea Scouts, the Australia Post to secure a public letter protect our police in the same way they Tuggeranong Community Council and box in the suburb. protect our community,‖ he concluded. local MLAs Amanda Bresnan and Bren- dan Smyth. Apologies were received from Gai Brodtmann and Zed Seselja.

The traffic survey of Mortimer Lewis Drive was conducted in late 2011 and the results were presented to the meeting by Mr. Gill. He outlined plans for a footpath on the northern side of Mortimer Lewis Drive.

Mrs. Flint said residents have raised many complaints over the years about the lack of footpaths in their suburb, with residents of all ages having to walk on the road in all weather conditions, risking their safety and security.

Attendees advised Tony Gill of a number of road design faults and drainage problems including flooding in Bibb Place. They also highlighted a ‖blind curve‖ at a section of Mortimer Lewis Drive creating serious driveway exit safety problems. Speeding and ―hooning‖ were also common in Mortimer Lewis Drive, according to some residents.

Mrs. Flint said residents also pointed to the need for a "No Through Road‖ sign for De Little Circuit, a ―One Way‖ sign for John Young Crescent and ―No Right Turn‖ sign for the southern end of Morti- mer Lewis Drive onto the Tuggeranong Parkway. ―A footpath for De Little Circuit and John Young Crescent was also raised and discussed,‖ she said.

Tuggeranong Community Council Working with our community www.tuggcc.com Page 7 Pedestrians, the forgotten road users

when turning at intersections. This means that any driver who fails to give way to a pedestrian is guilty of an offence.

In 2010 there were 47 pedestrian colli- sions in the ACT, and an unknown number of cases where pedestrians man- aged to avoid drivers who failed to give way to them. Ten of these people were admitted to hospital, and another 31re- ceived medical treatment.

Based on Ms Burch's advice, you might expect that the ACT Police issued more than 47 traffic infringement notices for failing to give way to pedestrians. They actually issued only 33.

Drivers who fail to give way to pedestrians are highly unlikely to be booked, provided the pedestrians either jump out of the way or are not injured seriously enough to need medical treatment.

Part of the explanation for the failure of the ACT Police to enforce these rules can be found in their Purchase Agree- Canberra's drivers generally give way to because they are already half-way ment with the ACT Government. The other vehicles when they are supposed through the intersection. They didn't al- only road rules specifically identified in to, and to pedestrians at marked pedes- low for the possibility of giving way to a this agreement relate to speeding, wear- trian crossings. But they generally ignore pedestrian, and now If they stop for you ing seat belts, drink-driving and using the rules that require them to give way to they risk having other cars collide with mobile phones. pedestrians at other locations. them. The agreement includes a target for road It's time for our Attorney-General, Simon “Most pedestrians have been deaths. But turning drivers aren't usually Corbell to require the ACT Police to book bullied into giving way to going fast enough to kill pedestrians. all drivers who fail to give way to pedes- Enforcing the pedestrian rules will have trians. drivers who should actually little impact on the target for road deaths. give way to them.” My father once told me a story about a The agreement also includes a target for boy who walked past a house. Not long If you step in front of car that is turning road injuries. But while pedestrians re- after, the boy walked past it again. When left, the driver is probably watching to main intimidated into giving way to driv- he walked past for the third time, a their right for approaching vehicles, and ers, they are unlikely to be injured. En- woman asked him what he was doing. won't even see you. One explanation for forcing the pedestrian rules might en- ―I'm running away from home,‖ the boy the poor observance of the rules that courage more people to walk. said, ―but I'm not allowed to cross the require drivers to give way to pedestrians road.‖ is that, like many of Australia's 350-plus More people walking might mean more road rules, they are rarely enforced. pedestrians being injured - especially if The fact is, you can't walk very far in they start expecting drivers to obey the Canberra without using a road. As a road As a result, most pedestrians have been road rules. On this score, too, the Police user you are subject to the road rules. bullied into giving way to drivers who have little incentive to make drivers give But as a pedestrian you're unlikely to be should actually give way to them. way to pedestrians. treated as a genuine road user. Some would-be pedestrians simply avoid If you want drivers to give way to you Take for example the road rules that the issue by driving instead. It may be when you cross the road, your direct require drivers to give way to pedestri- less convenient and it causes more con- options is to report them to the police ans. 98% of people who do the Road gestion and pollution, but other drivers when they fail to give way. Your other Ready test answer correctly that a turn- will give way to them if they are in a car. option is to ask Attorney-General, Simon ing driver must give way to pedestrians if Corbell to include pedestrian-friendly there is danger of collision. But most For those who don't drive, the added performance criteria in the ACT Policing drivers forget this rule once they get their danger of crossing the road means re- Purchase Agreement. licenses. A Canberra Pedestrian Forum duced access to schools, shops and survey found that only 40% of drivers services. Leon Arundell, remember it. Convenor, Canberra Recently acting Attorney-General Joy Pedestrian Forum. If you step in front of a car that is turning Burch confirmed that drivers must give right, the driver will probably toot at you way to pedestrians in general – not only

Tuggeranong Community Council Working with our community www.tuggcc.com Page 8 South campaign 55plus kicks off in style

gets big house January with the first Social Sunday, on 29 January. launch According to organisers it was a huge Federal Member for Canberra, Gai success attracting 65 members and visi- Brodtmann has launched the ―South tors enjoying a tasty Australia Day Side Rocks‖ campaign. themed afternoon tea provided by the hard-working Social Committee. This follows her speech in the House of Representatives where she lauded the The new premises have also proved benefits of living in Canberra‘s south. popular with other community groups which have already booked the large It was in response to a similar speech by ―Parkview Room‖ and the smaller her northern Canberra colleague and ―Waterview Room‖ for their activities. Member for Fraser, Andrew Leigh. 55Plus Club members enjoy the surrounds of 55Plus Club Publicity Officer, Maggie their new premises. ―Something needs to be settled right Watts said with new activities and a here, right now,‖ Ms Brodtmann told Fed- growing membership, we foresee a The members of the Tuggeranong 55 eral Parliament. bright future for this active seniors group. Plus Club have moved into their new

premises on the banks of Lake Tugger- ―Today the south side is striking back If you are interested in joining 55+ Club, anong and all accounts are that they are against scurrilous claims made last week please contact thrilled with the new building. by the member for Fraser,‖ Ms 55plus.comms@[email protected] or call

Brodtmann said. Communities @Work on 6293 6500, or The building was officially opened on 18 visit Communities @Work at Cowlishaw November by Member for Brindabella ―Never before have I been so under- Street, Greenway. and Minister for Ageing, Ms Joy Burch. whelmed by a pitch for living north of the The activities program commenced in lake. His admission that just 14 members of the Labor Caucus call the northside home really says it all.‖ she said.

―The southside landslide proves that members love it in the south. MPs have voted with their feet, and their staff as well.‖

―However, there are tens of thousands of other people who choose to live in the Canberra electorate and, with that in mind, I am launching the 'South Side Rocks' campaign—an initiative to open your mind to the benefits of life in the south, via tales from the locals themselves,‖ Ms Brodtmann said.

―Asking MPs why they live where they do can be pretty predictable stuff, but if you talk to the people of Canberra you will really get to know why the south side rocks.

So I urge all southsiders to write to me. Tell me why you choose to live in the southern suburbs and where you like to go.

―Southside residents: take a stand. We cannot let those in the north delude themselves into thinking they have got it better than we do.‖

―I urge all members living on the south to stay vigilant. Do not be sucked in by the member for Fraser's voodoo. Stay south and prosper,‖ she concluded.

Source: Hansard

Tuggeranong Community Council Working with our community www.tuggcc.com Page 9 Charity bin mess meeting News in Brief Chief Minister, Katy Gallagher has de- Some of the ideas put forward included: scribed as successful a meeting with charity organisations to address illegal Providing more information to the dumping around charity bins. She said public about the items charities Hyperdome launches the meeting has produced a range of need, buy local campaign ideas on how to deal with the problem. Identifying problem locations,

Rationalising and regionalising Ms Gallagher said while charity bins pro- The Tuggeranong Hyperdome is encour- charity bins, vide a convenient way for people to do- aging Valley residents to support local nate clothing, footwear and blankets to A bulky waste pick up service, businesses with its ‗buy local campaign‘. people in need, the increase in illegal Free day at the tip, The Hyperdome has launched a ‗Local dumping outside these bins has become Monitoring of bins - such as in- Knowledge Pocket Guide‘ to shopping in a serious waste problem and an eye- creased surveillance, sore. Tuggeranong complete with information Improved public awareness of on local retailers, special offers, commu- illegal dumping, She said the problem has been made nity news and events. Naming and shaming, worse by people dumping large and bulky items like televisions, computers Dob in a dumper, Copies of the Local Knowledge Guide and broken and unusable furniture, Better ways of sharing the costs. are available from the Hyperdome Cus- which the charity outlets do not need or of managing charity donations. tomer Service Desk. For more informa- want. tion visit: http://www.hyperdome.com.au/ "All these ideas will now be looked at in event.aspx?ID=26134 The meeting, held on 25 January, in- more detail with Territory and Municipal volved representatives from the broader Services staff to work with each of the Mugga Lane charity sector, particularly those who charities over the next month before re- have permits to locate bins. convening another meeting in March," expands the Chief Minister said. There are currently 239 charity bins lo- The ACT Planning and Land Authority cated across the ACT; a condition of all "I appreciated the opportunity to discuss (ACTPLA) has received an application permits is to keep sites clean. these issues with the charity organisa- for a scoping document for an Environ- tions, and look forward to working with mental Impact Statement into further "The meeting was a good opportunity for them as we develop solutions to over- expansion of the Mugga Lane Resource all involved in the placement and ap- come the current problems," the Chief Management Centre. proval of charity bins to discuss options Minister said. for dealing with this problem," the Chief This will be the fifth stage of landfill since Minister said. Source: Media Release the Resource Management Centre commenced operations.

The proposed expansion would involve both an area within the Centre and an area of adjacent rural land.

Cost of living statement

Shadow Treasurer and Member for Brindabella, Brendan Smyth, will introduce a Bill into the Assembly requiring the ACT Government to include a cost of living statement in the annual ACT Budget.

Mr Smyth said Canberrans need to be aware, not only of the decisions which are contained in the annual Budget, but of the implications of those decisions on individuals and families and their costs of living.

―It is important that governments are as open and accountable to their electorate as possible, and the provision of an analysis of the cost of living effects of the annual Budget will provide even greater transparency of each government‘s decisions on fiscal policy,‖ Mr Smyth said.

Tuggeranong Community Council Working with our community www.tuggcc.com Page 10

Inaccurate images Valley Voice

anger residents

Can residents affected by big development proposals rely on developers' photo montages?

The Sydney Morning Herald recently reported that was not the case for one residents‘ group in Sydney‘s inner west after inaccuracies were found in a series of digital photo montages which made a Mar 4: Clean-up Australia. Cleanup proposed development appear much site: Lake Tuggeranong. smaller than it would if built. 9.30am Tuggeranong Community

Centre. Tuggeranong Community Council‘s The developer was sent back to the newsletter, Valley Voice is designed to drawing board by the Department of 6: TCC General Meeting, inform Valley residents of issues that Planning to redo the images that were 7.30pm Tuggeranong Southern impact on them and to act as a vehicle publicly exhibited for the project after Cross Club. for other community groups and organi- questions were raised over their accu- sations to communicate with residents. racy. 11: Lions Club, Tuggeranong

Homestead Markets. Valley Voice is produced on a regular The No Lewisham Towers Residents' basis and is circulated amongst TCC Action Group claims the original images 28: 2012 LungNet Education Day members and friends. If you wish to for the proposed development were so 9.45am Southern Cross Club receive copies of Valley Voice in the misleading that the corrected ones Woden. Ph 1800 645301. future please email [email protected]. should go on public exhibition before the

Planning Assessment Commission 31: Earth Hour. Meanwhile, if you have articles or im- makes its determination next week. ages you wish to contribute to Valley

Apr 3: TCC General Meeting, Voice please email them to The Sydney Morning Herald reports the 7.30pm Tuggeranong Southern [email protected] by the 20th of each developer wants to build 430 apartments Cross Club. month. in seven buildings of up to 10 storeys on a former industrial site. 8: Lions Club, Tuggeranong Please feel free to pass Valley Voice on

Homestead Markets. to those who you think may be interested The issue of artist‘s impressions of pro- in its contents. posed buildings has been controversial May 1: TCC General Meeting, ______before, with the City of Sydney and de- 7.30pm Tuggeranong Southern veloper Lend Lease clashing over the Cross Club. Valley Voice is published by the Tugger- accuracy of digital images of Barangaroo anong Community Council (TCC). Mate- in late 2010. 13: Lions Club, Tuggeranong rial in this publication comes from a vari-

Homestead Markets. ety of community and government based ''Photo montages are the clearest way sources and therefore does not neces- for non-experts to understand what is Jun 5: TCC General Meeting, sarily reflect the views of the TCC. being proposed,'' Tamara Winikoff, the 7.30pm Tuggeranong Southern chairwoman of the Lewisham residents' Cross Club. Material submitted to the TCC for inclu- group, said. sion in Valley Voice may be subject to

10: Lions Club, Tuggeranong editorial changes. Material that includes ''In representing the development at Homestead Markets. dates, times and contact details is cor- about half its real size, the developer rect at the time of publishing. Therefore, may be trying to damp down an adverse 30: Applications close for the the TCC cannot be held responsible if it response from the community to some- Community Centenary Initiatives is not informed of any changes to that thing that is completely out of scale and Fund information prior to publication. out of sympathy with what surrounds it.''

Jul 3: TCC General Meeting, The Sydney Morning Herald said the 7.30pm Tuggeranong Southern Tuggeranong Community Council. developer could not be reached for com- Cross Club. E: [email protected] ment. W: www.tuggcc.com

8: Lions Club, Tuggeranong SMH 21 Feb 2012 Homestead Markets. Tuggeranong Community Council Inc. (TCC) is an incorporated, voluntary, not for profit, non political, community based association operating within the Tuggeranong district of the Tuggeranong Community Council acknowledges its supporters. Australian Capital Territory.

TCC is formally recognised as the peak community representative body in Tuggeranong pro- moting the goals and aspirations of local residents and other community groups and organisations within the Tuggeranong Valley. TCC receives partial funding from the ACT Government.

Tuggeranong Community Council Working with our community www.tuggcc.com Page 11