Oberon residents are taking the next step in sending a message to Local Government Minister Paul Toole with a protest in Bathurst on Monday – and that message is Oberon says no to amalgamation.
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Member of Oberon’s No Amalgamation Committee Marj Armstrong said she would like to see as many locals as possible at the rally because Oberon cannot afford to be taken over by Bathurst Regional Council.
“If Oberon is amalgamated with Bathurst it will destroy our town,” she said.
“We have all that we need in Oberon and we are a sustainable council.
“If taken over, Oberon will lose jobs and services – we would have no voice in council.”
The rally will get underway in Machattie Park at 12.15pm. There will be a spot of lunch and protestors will walk down William Street at 1.45pm and continue past Bathurst Regional Council Chambers in Russell Street, down George Street and into Howick Street where they will stop outside the office of Member for Bathurst and Minister for Local Government Paul Toole’s office.
On the day, the Oberon community will be joined by Hands Off Mosman Coalition, which is a member of the broader Save Our Council Coalition.
Spokesperson for the group Will Tuck said they would send about 15 representatives to support Oberon’s No Amalgamation Committee.
“Bringing the fight to Bathurst in support of Oberon is the aim of the rally. HOMC and SOCC’s support for the bush is to help those who need to piggyback on metro tactics and illustrate regional views on the issue and their own frustrations with state government,” Mr Tuck said.
“Imagine a mega council with Oberon a small fish or minnow, battling to keep its interests safe and being constantly out voted by representatives outside of Oberon – that’s why we will join Oberon at the rally,” president of Hands off Mosman Coalition Greg Sommers said.
“Some say this could be the death of Oberon. It’s a vibrant centre without debt.”
Several Oberon councillors will attend the rally with Oberon Council’s general manager Alan Cairney.
Mrs Armstrong encourages all of Oberon residents to come along to support Oberon’s independence.
“Otherwise Oberon may no longer have such a wonderful community into the future,” she said.
If transport is required, please contact Mrs Armstrong on 6336 1760 or email mj.armstrong@westnet.com.au.
