Mayoral Column 25th February 2022

Published on 25 February 2022

Wakefield Park Update

Council is committed to continuing to try to find a compromise and a workable solution for noise emissions from Wakefield Park, so that they can operate successfully and live in harmony with neighbours.

Since the unanimous Council resolution on 1st February, we have received alternate conditions from Wakefield Park management, which they believe would make the business viable long term. We will then seek to discuss these with residents around the facility, to try to find a compromise solution.

I must say however that it is disappointing to note that Wakefield Park have continued to breach their own agreed noise levels, which are reflective of the original consent issued in 1993. Noise levels at Wakefield Park are never to exceed 95 dB(A) when measured 30 meters from the track. Since November 2021, Wakefield Parks own monitoring equipment (noted on their website) has recorded that this threshold has continually been breached.

Last weekend (18-20 February 2022) Wakefield Park recorded noise well in excess of this limit in excess of 500 times, ultimately reaching a maximum of 124.1dB(A). To provide perspective, 130 dB(A) is equivalent to a jumbo jet taking off.

This is not acceptable, therefore Council has issued Wakefield Park with a show-cause notice seeking an explanation as to why further regulatory action should not be pursued. As an organisation Council has regulatory obligations that we must carry out.

Despite this action, we will continue to act in good faith to try to achieve an outcome that will benefit our region, but also provide residents with a liveable solution.

At this stage I do expect that the appeal lodged by Wakefield Park against the development consent granted by Council to operate a major Recreation Facility (Major) at Goulburn will be held next month in the Land and Environment Court.

Performing Arts to make grand REeNTRANCE

Goulburn’s performing arts community will celebrate opening of GPAC (Goulburn Performing Arts Centre) with the grand opening performance, REeNTRANCE, across Friday 25th and Saturday 26th March 2022.

Tickets are now on sale for the Saturday evening performance for just $10, to ensure the event is accessible for all. Residents are encouraged to join members of our local Goulburn performing arts community in a celebration of cherished memories, combined moments, and the continuation of building momentum into the future. Friday evening’s performance will be a special preview show, for invited guests.

This performance is a collaboration by various local community groups and individuals that will involve drama, storytelling, dance, song, costumes, stagecraft and music. It will be a true showcase of our community, and the incredible talent we have here in Goulburn Mulwaree.

The Grand Opening Performance is part of a series of events over two weekends to commemorate the Opening of the Goulburn Performing Arts Centre, with the GPAC season launch to follow across the 2nd and 3rd April. For information on the Season Launch and Family Open Day, go to www.goulburnpac.com.au

All tickets for GPAC events, including REeNTRANCE, are available at https://gpac2022.sales.ticketsearch.com

The opening weekend will feature a red carpet event from 5pm on both nights, commemorative program, video installation of ‘Living Oral History’ interviews, and VIP speeches for the Friday evening preview event.

Recognising former Councillors

Former Councillors Margaret O’Neill & Leah Ferrara were recognised by Goulburn Mulwaree Council at our meeting last Tuesday evening, for their service to this community.

Margaret O’Neill OAM has served 38 years consecutive service within local government. Margaret O’Neill OAM was first elected to Goulburn City Council in 1983 and re-elected to Greater Argyle Council, later to become Goulburn Mulwaree Council in 2004. She was re-elected in 2008, 2012 and again in 2016. Margaret O’Neill OAM served as Mayor of Goulburn City Council from 1993 to 1999.

Mrs O’Neill has been a passionate advocate for sporting organisations and athletes in our region. She established the Ray Harvey Sports Foundation, and is patron for ten organisations. She was NSW longest serving female Councillor in Local Government, and received an Order of Australia in 2016.

Leah Ferrara served as a Councillor for five years with Goulburn Mulwaree. She had a strong focus on creating more green space throughout the region, and improving sustainability outcomes. Ms Ferrara was a member of the Bungonia discretionary fund working party, Rocky Hill Museum Working Party & St Clair Working Party, was instrumental in the rebranding of the Goulburn Mulwaree Animal Shelter and was involved in a number of projects during her time on Council between 2016 and December 2021.

I also had the pleasure of hosting a Civic Reception for Margaret on Wednesday evening this week, in honour of an outstanding 38 years’ service. The room was full of people who have worked with Margaret on countless projects and community initiatives over this period, and the theme was certainly one of immense admiration for her work and service to this region, which I am sure will continue for many years.