A petition signed by thousands of supporters asking for unbiased views when it comes to building a High Performance Centre on Hobart’s eastern shore has landed a Councillor in hot water with his Mayor.
The petition, initiated by the Friends of the Rosny AFL/AFLW High Performance Centre group, received 2,906 signatures in support of the development.
It was presented to the Clarence City Council at Monday night’s meeting at the same time the Tasmania Devils AFL team was launched at several locations around the state, including the site of the proposed centre at Charles Hand Park.
Reading an overview of the petition, Mayor Brendan Blomeley said those behind it were advocating for councillors to collaborate in realising the project’s potential.
“An AFL High Performance Centre at Rosny, in the city of Clarence, will have with far reaching positive effects ranging from economic development, to community social engagement and talent development to education and employment, contributing to the overall prosperity and wellbeing of our community,” he read.
Blomeley got as far as saying “We the decision makers hold the power to help shape this once in a lifetime opportunity into a High Performance Centre that not only…” before Councillor Richard James stood up and attempted to raise a point of order.
“Is that all in the petition … On a point of order … I’m asking if that is the petition in its entirety,” James questioned, as Blomeley respond firmly: “Have your seat, take your seat. Sit down now.”
“I will not tolerate this disrespectful conduct in the chamber. I opened my comments by saying as an overview,” Blomeley said.
“Councillor James … if you would like to leave now you are welcome to do so … Do not interrupt the chair.”
After more back and forth and the muttering of “gee whiz” from Councillor James, the council eventually accepted the petition.
The High Performance Centre is opposed by some members of the Clarence community, who argue Charles Hand Park was selected without proper process and is the wrong location.
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