General News
31 August, 2024
Opposition builds to cattle grid move
DOZENS of signatures have already been added to a petition against removal of the historic entrance gate at Rheola recreation reserve. Some of the 157 people turned out on Saturday to prove the memorial gate entry was wide enough for fire trucks to...
DOZENS of signatures have already been added to a petition against removal of the historic entrance gate at Rheola recreation reserve.
Some of the 157 people turned out on Saturday to prove the memorial gate entry was wide enough for fire trucks to enter.
Organiser Matt Catto said the entrance width had been one reason given by the reserve committee and the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action to remove the gates, demolish pillars and install a cattle grid.
“Regrettably, the current committee of management and the Department of Environment, Energy and climate action have decided that after 73 years the gates and pillars aren’t wide enough,” Mr Catto said.
“They plan to do away with the pillars and install a single farm gate. The plaque that features the names of early pioneers will be relocated. Quite apart from its emotional significance, the memorial plays a key role in our understanding of local history, portraying the spirit and grit of our pioneering ancestors. Its preservation is vital.”
Members of the Rheola Charity Carnival Committee also voiced their opposition to the plan.
They said a cattle grid would present safety issues for the 4000 people who attend the annual carnival on Easter Monday.
A plaque honouring World War One soldiers from the district is on one pillar. Among the six names is Robert Catto with descendants saying it is the only memorial to the soldier killed in France in 1918.
DEECA this month said discussions on plans continued with the reserve committee while Mr Catto said the community had also engaged in talks.