Time for people to speak up about the GovHub plans
Residents may be aware of the proposed State Government GovHubs for Bendigo and Ballarat.
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The State Government offer for Bendigo’s GovHub appears grossly inferior to the Ballarat proposal as I pointed out in a recent letter to the editor ( “Disappointing response”, Bendigo Advertiser, September 26).
One glaring anomaly: Ballarat receives $100 million for its hub and 600 new government jobs, Bendigo receives $16 million and 100 jobs.
My impression is our council is totally dissatisfied with the proposed Hub offer compared to Ballarat’s, but is loathe to speak out for fear of retribution on future funding proposals and is not sure exactly what to do.
It may be that with the forthcoming State election in November Bendigo is now considered to have two safe Labor seats and it would be more strategic to direct more funds to the Ballarat region to shore up support; hence the attractive Ballarat Hub proposal.
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Whilst our two State parliamentarians, Jacinta Allan and Maree Edwards, have performed well in their respective roles and are highly likely to be returned at the November election, they seem to have dropped the ball on this one. They need to stand up on behalf of all Greater Bendigo residents and re-negotiate the Government Hub deal to ensure a fairer outcome.
I would support a community push to let our politicians know that Greater Bendigo is entitled to and expects a fair go on the proposed Hub deal. Bendigo people, business leaders and Councillors need to speak up.
Michael McKenzie, Strathdale
Reluctant to donate
I, like many others who may have donations of historical interest to Bendigo, future historical authors and students are reluctant to donate unless there is a proper place to store and show them. Many interesting and valuable facts and artifacts could be lost forever with the passing of time.
Now is the time for decisions.
Mary Markey, Kangaroo Flat
Ibis impact on wildlife
It appears that Ms Mead in her comments in regard to the Ibis population in the old Muni Pond (“Moving ibis’ on is shortsighted: wildlife advocate”, Bendigo Advertiser, October 1), does not live, work or use the recreational facilities that are impacted by the Ibis population in the pond.
The impact of the smell and noise along with the destruction of what was, until two years ago, a pristine water environment for many species of wildlife is not acceptable in beautiful Rosalind Park.
There has now been two breeding seasons and there is no indication that any of the birds move on after a breeding season finishes.
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I would have thought that Ms Mead would have more concern for the other numerous species of wildlife that are no longer in the pond. Due to the fact that Ibis are meat eating scavengers they have decimated the populations of fish, frogs and water birds particularly baby ducks.
I applaud Council's intention to beautify this historic area of Bendigo, for all of us to enjoy, without the unacceptable situation we have at present.
Graham Clark, Bendigo
Have your say: Letters can be sent to PO Box 61, Bendigo 3552 or at bendigoadvertiser.com.au
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