LETTER: Wonthaggi people should be congratulated, he says

Chairman of the Wonthaggi North-East Residents Community Action Group, John Duscher, wraps up the community's feelings after the State Government moved to roll-back the retrospective imposition for Environmental Audit Overlays on more than 600 privately owned properties in Wonthaggi's North-East residential precinct.

The advice received from the Bass Coast Shire regarding the final assessment on the remaining properties covered by the retrospective Environmental Audit Overlays and the expected lifting of the EAOs from land titles has been warmly welcomed by all those affected and by the wider community.

The removal of the EOAs is certainly unprecedented as a planning scheme amendment usually takes between 12 to 18 months. This is a true indication and recognition that a monumental mistake was made in applying this unheralded, unwarranted blight in the first place and the terrible impact it has caused, a sad, sorry situation that should never have happened. So much angst and anger, so unnecessary!

This incredible backflip has been brought about by the incredible support and action from the Bass Coast residents and friends from the wider community who have banded together to ensure justice prevails.

It has been achieved through intense lobbying, through the media, letter drops, so many letters to Council and Government, meetings with Members of Parliament, attendance at rallies and face-to-face conversations with the community.

The personal stories of how devastating this issue has been on the lives of those affected have been shared and listened to, real stories from real people.

There will be further questions before the issue is put to bed no doubt which is important, starting in parliament at a future time, triggered by over 4000 signatures on the circulated petition.

Thank you again to all who have stepped up to support our action. This pressure has brought the desired change, and it is a great win for people power and common sense. The wonderful spirit of the community wins hands down. Our job is almost done!

John Duscher, Chair Wonthaggi North-East Residents Community Action Group.