Partner no more

Shire to quit lobby group

“We have a duplication of lobbying efforts that are totally unnecessary.” CR JOE McCRACKEN

THE Barwon Regional Partnership is a waste of taxpayers’ money and adds to an already bloated bureaucracy, according to a local councillor.

The Partnership, created by the State Government last year, aims to put together a priority wishlist of projects for the Government to consider.

But Colac Otway Shire will today consider pulling out of the fledgling organisation.

In a notice of motion, Cr Joe McCracken says the council must end its association because it is unnecessary.

“We have a duplication of lobbying efforts that are totally unnecessary, which are ultimately paid for by the taxpayer,” Cr McCracken said.

“Colac Otway Shire’s participation legitimises this waste of taxpayer money and encourages an already bloated state bureaucracy.”

The partnership includes Colac Otway, Surf Coast, Gee- long and Queenscliffe councils.

It is chaired by Geelong Chamber of Commerce president Kylie Warne and features business, not-for-profit and social welfare leaders.

Cr McCracken said the “unelected body” was not needed.

“We are the representatives of our shire, and we are in a far better position to lobby as opposed to unelected board members,” he said.

The region held a forum last month, where social inequity was a hot topic of discussion.

Other priorities include revitalising central Geelong, Great Ocean Road tourism and digital learning. A DRIVER was lucky to avoid serious injury after smashing into trees in Drysdale yesterday.

While the car’s bonnet and windscreen were destroyed and its rear end left dangling in the air, the male driver did not require treatment from ambulance paramedics.

The crash occurred on Whitcombes Rd, Drysdale just after 3pm.