More than 200 residents made their voices heard on Saturday about the NSW Government’s contentious planned forced council merger between Oberon and Bathurst.
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They were joined outside the Oberon Council chambers by mayor Kathy Sajowitz, Oberon Anti Amalgamation committee members and Calare electorate candidates.
The wet weather didn’t dampen the spirits of those at the Maintain the Rage rally.
Cr Sajowitz assured those present that the fight will continue.
“The residents of Oberon have spoken. They want to maintain their democratic right and they have made it clear they do not want or need to be amalgamated,” she said.
Oberon is still waiting for a judgement from its legal action against the proposed forced merger with Bathurst.
“The recent court challenge has revealed many flaws in the KPMG and Boundaries Commission reports and we still await the court’s findings and judgement,” Cr Sajowitz said.
"Maintain the Rage and keep writing to the Minister for Local Government, Paul Toole."
Chair of Oberon Anti Amalgamation committee Brian Dellow said Oberon has been fighting since 2003 not to be amalgamated.
“We must challenge the Nationals at the ballot box at the federal election.
“It may not be a national issue, but Mr Toole has not spoken to anyone in Oberon and the government should be made aware of our attitude,” Mr Dellow said.
Saturday’s rally was attended by Labor’s Dr Jess Jennings, the Green’s Delanie Sky, Nick Xenophon Team’s Rodney Bloomfield and Independent Anthony Craig.
Apologies were received from National’s Andrew Gee and Green’s MP David Shoebridge.
All Calare candidates spoke at the rally and said they support Oberon in their fight to stand alone as a council.
Oberon Anti Amalgamation committee member Marj Armstrong said the rally was a reminder to Premier Mike Baird and Minister for Local Government Paul Toole that Oberon would not stand for the devious, dishonest and non transparent government.
“The battle is not over, why should we give in? We are proud of our united community and local government.
“The ballot box is where we can make them pay – our committee will have a presence at the July 2 federal election,” Ms Armstrong said.
On Saturday, Oberon Anti Amalgamation sent a bucket into the crowd for donations and $838.55 was raised to help members to keep the fight ongoing.
