Some interesting facts emerged:

Bear in mind the independent review was a ratepayer-inspired initiative, the brainchild of Michael McKenzie and Ted Coleman, in spite of fierce opposition from the CEO and other council officers, some councillors and other ratepayers.

Their tenacity in staying the course got the review over the line.

Lisa Ruffell as mayor with the casting vote, along with the support of Peter Cox, Helen Leach, Elise Chapman and James Williams should also take a bow for insisting on the review.

I reckon Michael and Ted deserve a night out on council at Masons of Bendigo, washed down with a bottle or two of their top shelf wines.

Congratulations to Julian Poloniato on his letter about the removal of the variety of gum trees that formed an avenue of honour leading to the entrance of the former East Bendigo Primary School.

These trees planted 100 years ago in honour and memory of the soldiers that sacrificed their lives to give our country the freedom and opportunity for education, employment, a good health system and the chance to own their own family home and hopefully be free from invasions launched against us in the Second World War.

It appears obvious that a lot of thought went into the planting of these with name plaques that were placed in front of the individual trees.

Once again the City of Greater Bendigo allows double standards in their operations. The council admits that the landowner is quite within their rights to remove the trees and didn’t need a permit.

According to council director Prue Mansfield, to say that there were no planning obligation for developers to retain the trees, but if a resident goes and removes a tree from their own property they are hauled over the coals and fined for not seeking permission to do so.

Ms Mansfield also states that these tree’s are not native to Victoria and where not naturally grown. Well, they are an integral part of Australian history and as Victoria is a state of this nation then they become a native tree.

For what sacrifices these soldiers have made to be shown so much disrespect from people that should show leadership, honesty, understanding, respect and the underused commonsense. I am wondering why the RSL didn’t get involved, just like the push for the avenue of honour at Kangaroo Flat, or where they kept in the dark and wasn’t forwarded any information to prevent any saving of our history.

A planning panel recommended the planning scheme to include the overlay of the avenue of honour.

But once again the council goes against panel advice and community’s comments, just as they did with the pool at Kangaroo Flat.

Even recently, VCAT ruled against the subdivision to proceed where the school building and the avenue of honour were located.

So from what I have witnessed over a number of issues that go to VCAT, the council will only accept the decisions that go their way.

Those that don’t they just bulldoze everything in their way to get and do what they want. So much for an honest open and communicating council.