THE TOONS’ VIEWS

The Editor,

I have read with interest the recent letters submitted by Wally Flynn and Garry Braithwaite supporting the music bowl development idea at Sir Roden Cutler Park (SRCP).

In the early 1980s my late husband, Raoul Kelly (Citizen Of The Year 1989), suggested to Dubbo City Council (DCC) that the ‘’Carols By Candlelight’’ be held at SRCP as it was a natural amphitheatre and would hold more people than the usual venue, Victoria Park.

DCC agreed and with Raoul (who made and installed the spectacular light displays there), Wally Flynn, The Lions Club and many others, the carols were held there successfully for some years, with up to 10,000 attending.

In August 1987, in preparation for the Bicentennial Carols, DCC resolved to appoint a committee with alderman Bal Dohnt, R. Kelly, P. Doran, N. Barnett, W. Brightman, J. Macdonald, W. Mann, R. North, L. Slapp, M. White, B. Wilson and I. Munro. Greg Hamilton drew the first plans, followed later by John Cook.

I wrote to DCC and then mayor Tom Slattery suggesting that the old wire fence which surrounded the park be removed to allow easier access for tourists and the community, and that tables, seating and toilets be built on the flat section.

The fence was removed as part of the beautification of Dubbo for the Bicentenary in 1988, followed later by the construction of the amenities.

Raoul was also involved with the Bike Safety Committee and the promotion of a cycle track through SRCP to the zoo, and now there is the Tracker Riley Cycleway.

I would like to thank Garry Braithwaite for his years of promoting the music bowl concept and expanding on the original plans.

I know Raoul would be in favour of encouraging everyone to see the potential of this unique park as an entertainment venue for large outdoor concerts and events for both residents and visitors.

Pam Kelly,

Dubbo