Trip to play in the snow, ruined

CABLE CAR PLANS

A SATURDAY morning trip to play in the snow at Mt Wellington ruined with a closed road. Living in regional Tasmania and being able to see the snow I decided to take the kids for an outdoor snow experience. Families and many, many other users were unable to access the snow due to road closure. I am hoping the cable car gets built so families and many other user groups can access to snow consistently at the mountain in our capital city. mountaintop development would detract enormously from the very special character of Hobart, that makes it such a fantastic place to visit and live. I believe that in the long term, it would not be in Hobart’s social or economic interests. The longer Hobart retains its relatively pristine and natural character, the more unique and attractive it becomes on a domestic and international scale. Hobart should not compromise on its premium image for the sake of possible short-term profits for a small subsection of Tasmanians.

Secondly, even if such a development was to be carried out, it should not be a private enterprise primarily benefiting shareholders in MWCC. The increasing value of Hobart and the mountain is a result of its preservation by generations of public land managers, and should not be gifted to private developers for personal financial benefit (and the eventual financial detriment of Tasmanians).

Insufficient evidence

IN response to MWCC supporters I was elected to govern, not to be re-elected. This means taking a long-term view and with as much evidence as I can find in the best interests of Hobart’s ratepayers (as per the Local Government Act). Sadly, and MWCC proponents know this, until a development application is lodged, they have given aldermen insufficient evidence to proceed with any associated proposals.

If the council meeting was a game of QI, on this decision we’d all have been handed the “elephant in the room” and “nobody knows” cards and won points on both. Good governance has never been a Leadership spill Mmmm, maybe PM Bishop, dep leader Dutton and treasurer Turnbull might be the end result. Possibly the best combination to secure re-election. popularity game. For those alleging I’m a Green, I am not a member of any political party or faction as my voting record shows and remain perhaps the only true independent on council.

Healthy decision

I COMMEND Hobart City Council in its decision to support the retention of public bushland, and not make this space available for private development. Access to public green space has multiple health benefits, including increased physical activity, reduced risk of chronic illness, improved mental health and reduced health inequity. The decision to retain public green space not only benefits Hobart residents, but is directly aligned to Goal 4 of the Council’s strategic plan (strong safe and healthier communities).

Show your hand

THERE are simple solutions to overcome barriers experienced by proponents of the cable car development. All the State Government needs to do is to declare its hand by designating the proposal a Project of State Significance and if necessary, ensure land is made available to acquire under compulsory acquisition legislation. In doing so the assessment and approval process will be streamlined, the project can be advanced and any further obstructions through Hobart City Council and other self-interested parties will be avoided.

Elands for milk and meat

I THINK it was British biochemist Michael Crawford who suggested that instead of cattle, Australian farmers should be using eland antelopes for milk and meat, because they need less water. Israeli researchers showed you can grow any plant hydroponically with salt water, providing there were high daily temperature fluctuations, as in a desert.

Freezing for the job

I PROPOSE that the unfortunate Bureau of Meteorology employee that stood outside on Mt Wellington on Tuesday morning and ascertained that it “felt like -9 degrees Celsius” should be nominated for the title of Tasmanian of the Year!

Hollow words

THE Australian Parliament’s response to Fraser Anning’s racial rant was noble, but isn’t it just a little hollow when you consider that our own first nation people have been denied inclusion by way of treaty and Constitutional recognition?

See more by road

JUST to let “Mountain embarrassment” know (Letters, August 22), cable car access to the mountain would only be to the pinnacle, day cafe, bar and restaurant. Young, old and disabled can see more by vehicle and visit points of interest via Pinnacle Rd (all at less cost).