Transition auditors reviewing Sunbury’s planned separation from Hume say they’ve welcomed the opportunity to hear different points of view in the lead-up to a public meeting.
John Watson and Frank Vincent have sat down with residents and community groups in recent weeks after offering face-to-face meetings as part of the consultation phase of the review process.
The meetings follow the release of information sheets outlining details of the 2013 poll that led to Sunbury’s secession and the potential impact on rates in Sunbury and Hume, service delivery and population growth.
Mr Watson, the Brimbank council chairman of administrators, and Mr Vincent, a former judge of the Supreme Court, were appointed by the state government in March with a brief to review the Sunbury split.
The former Liberal government had gazetted papers for the creation of a new Sunbury council to start on July 1 this year.
In a statement, Mr Watson and Mr Vincent encouraged Sunbury and Hume residents to again share their views at this Friday’s meeting at Sunbury Memorial Hall.
The auditors have promised to report back to the government before August 31.
‘‘This is an issue that will affect the local community now and well into the future, and we encourage everyone with an interest in the separation of Sunbury to also make a formal submission before July 29,’’ they said.
‘‘Your submissions addressing questions arising from our community information and engagement program are fundamental to our report and recommendations.’’
Mr Watson and Mr Vincent have downplayed calls to ensure security guards are present at the public meeting.
The calls came after the previous public meeting on the controversial subject led to fiery disputes between members of the public and a probe into the alleged misbehaviour of Sunbury-based councillors Jack Medcraft and Jack Ogilvie.
The pair, who fronted two investigations, complained they were “ambushed” by agitators waving placards at last September’s meeting at Broadmeadows Town Hall.
Earlier this month, Cr Medcraft said a strong security presence was needed to prevent a repeat of what happened last year.
“I hope it doesn’t turn into an event where people are targeted because their views are different from that of others,’’ he said.
Friday’s meeting, at which the auditors will present an overview and answer questions, will be led by an independent facilitator. The meeting will at Sunbury Memorial Hall from 7pm. Submissions can be emailed to sunburyhume.transition@delwp.vic.gov.au
