TONIGHT!!! SHARON SHOSTAKs short movie about Mullumbimby's response to Wws has been advertised by the ABC that it will be on tonight (Fri 27 June) between 7.30 & 8pm. Its a good one, well worth a watch.
WWS AMENDMENTS TO S96 - BSC have advised that Wws new changes will be advertised in the next few weeks - that means a new submission period... will keep you posted.
SCALE MODEL: meanwhile, would you like to see a scale model of their proposals? Or perhaps even a photomontage that actually shows the building rather than a row of trees that they supplied with the last S96 and which they showed at the public meeting? Contact Mr Gary Boyer Regional Manager - who put out the lovely green booklet delivered by hand to Mullum letterboxes - at newdevelopments@woolworths.com.au - why not send a copy to Wws CEO Michael Luscombe at mluscombe@woolworths.com.au
SEDUCED BY THE BLANDISHMENTS OF SPIN? let us know how many lies/hype/spin you can find in that pretty green booklet.
WWS BEATEN!! ACCC Rejects a Supermarket Acquisition by Woolworths in Favour of an Independent: Extract from QRTSA (Retailers Assoc) newsletter:
It is with great satisfaction today that I bring members the news of an historic move by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) to announce their opposition to the Woolworths takeover of a retail outlet in Queanbeyan in New South Wales. The ACCC has acknowledged that had Woolworths been allowed to buy the store, "...it would be likely to substantially lessen the competition in the local retail supermarket "market" surrounding the store". The ACCC further noted as reason for their position, "...if the acquisition had proceeded, Woolworths would have owned three of the four full-line supermarkets in the Queanbeyan area..." More info http://www.qrtsa.com.au
Congratulations, Queanbeyan - joining the ranks of Mt Evelyn VIC; Erskinevillevillage.org NSW; Eurobodalla NSW, Griffiths NSW.
QUOTE:
AS THE CRICKETS' SOFT AUTUMN HUM
IS TO US
SO ARE WE TO THE TREES
AS ARE THEY
TO THE ROCKS AND THE HILLS
........... Gary Snyder
Cheers
Deborah
Friday, June 27, 2008
newsletter no 11
SHARON"S STATELINE MOVIE: We were advised by Stateline last week that they were going to show Sharon Shostak"s short movie, but it didn"t go to air as planned. It may be on this week. Apolgies to those who rearranged their plans to view this.
WWS NEW PLANS: We heard from Wws that they are working on new changes to S96, taking into account our suggestions. I followed this up with the Dept Planning and Byron Shire Council, both of whom had unforthcoming about information regarding changes. Their replies were as follows:
DoP: "The applicant has recently advised the Department that they intend to submit amended plans next week. A decision on whether the amendments will be publicly exhibited will be reserved until the Department is in receipt of the information."
BSC: "We are asking the DoP to renotify the amendment to Sec 96 primarily due to the on site issue. I doubt whether with such a large development that the changes that I have observed would lead to a new DA but certainly it should be renotified"
In conclusion, DOP will decide whether or not to "go public" with the new plans (called "amendment") which BSC are requesting. Basically Wws are changing the goal posts, ie the plans are now different to the S96 application about which we made submissions. Section 96 requires that the plans are "substantially the same" as the approved DA. I have asked Ray Darney what the criteria is in determining whether the plans are "substantially the same" to the original DA, and I await his reply.
If Wws want to build Stage 2 straight away (approval was only given for Stage 1) there is not enough space for on-site sewage works.
LETTER TO MORRIS IEMMA, NSW PREMIER, is on our website and explains the situation more. It requests him to review the S96 and ask Sartor to reject it. Click on "documents" http://www.mullumaction.org – or "read more" next to Iemma"s pic.
MCAN CARNIVAL: We are still considering this for sometime in August – alternatively a ball at the new Civic Centre, or a demonstration. Let us know your ideas/preferences/enthusiasms. August 2/3 is the same weekend as Splendour and we think a later date would be better.
MULLUM TO BRUNS RUN/WALK – Sunday 3 August http:// http://www.mullumtobruns.org.au
GET UP RURAL SURVEY: The survey lists a number of issues drawn from the GetUp Ideas Forum and the Australia 2020 Summit - they'd love to hear which of these issues are most important to you! They also want to learn more about rural and regional members and how best you can participate in future GetUp campaigns. http://www.getup.org.au/campaign/CountrySurvey
NEW LOOK WOOLIES CALLED "THOMAS DUX GROCER" in Lane Cove – looks like a chic deli – shop assistants wear black, they have chalk boards and wooden boxes for the fruit. They are not promoting this on their website, but we know it"s them 3; the local papers were on to it, also http://www.foodweek.com.au/main-features-page.aspx?articleType=ArticleView&articleId=1198 orhttp://www.ausfoodnews.com.au/2008/04/24/woolworths-open-first-thomas-dux-store.html. Next Dux will be in Paddington. The local Greek deli in Lane Cove has now gone out of business. By the way, have you heard Wws gospel song "Woa-oh The Fresh Food People Yeah" (ring their number and ask for the manager, you will hear it while you wait).
SARTOR"S PLANNING LAWS Scrape through the Upper House (media release from Sylvia Hale) Planning Minister Frank Sartor"s controversial planning laws passed through the Upper House of parliament tonight by 1 vote after the two Christian Democrat MPs split. Fred Nile voted with the government in support of the new laws while Gordon Moyes voted with the Greens and the Opposition against the Bill. The two Shooters Party MPs voted with the government. Greens MP and Planning spokesperson Sylvia Hale said the vote was very disappointing given the widespread community concern about the Bill. "This Bill has been driven by the development industry from day one. It is the government"s reward to big developers for all the money they poured into the NSW ALP"s campaign coffers before the last election," said Ms Hale. "The Bill will damage the state"s environment and heritage. It will remove the rights of residents to have a say about the way their neighbourhoods develop. It will lead to increased disputes between neighbours and it will open the door for an even greater level of corruption in what is already a corrupt planning system." "The fact that the government has responded to the Wollongong Council scandal and the public disgust at favourable development decisions for big political donors by entrenching and extending conflicts of interest is a disgrace," said Ms Hale. The Greens moved 94 amendments to the Bill aimed at maintaining existing environmental and heritage protections, removing conflicts of interest and restoring appeal rights. All of the Greens amendments were defeated after the Opposition joined the Government in opposing them.******************************************************
Ode to Mullumbimby - by - Magenta Appel-Pye
In Mullumbimby we pride ourselves on being a unique little town,Our heritage business centre the jewel in our crownWith friendly shopkeepers who know us by nameWe like the fact that none are the same.Our locally grown fresh food in all its diversityShits on genetically modified perversity.
How Woolworths got their D.A. through verges on criminalTheir architectural sensitivity is less than minimal.They want to be the "one stop shop"They don"t care if local businesses flopThis rampant greed has got to stop!Their representatives were totally condescendingTheir lies and tricks seem never-ending.Already they want more and biggerHow they get away with it one can only figure.
This spotlights that the "family store" WooliesAre really "get want we want" corporate bullies!When big business practices are unsustainableOur climate change goals are unattainable.
A selfish person stops live music in the hillsOur happy healthy rituals he willingly killsBan music, dancing and drumming and there goes our cultureFurther eroded by the predatory Woo lies vulture.
Mullumbimby could be a shining lightOf healthy communities getting it rightA community garden, heritage areas and businesses diverseMakes one want to visit and open one"s purse.But when our rights are taken away and its only about moneyWe lose our sense of community and that"s not funnyI hope we can beat them and community good prevailsFor our lovely Mullumbimby, the biggest little town in N.S.W.*********************************************************
Contact Deborah 66843723 if you want to get more involved with MCAN.for Mullum.Deb
WWS NEW PLANS: We heard from Wws that they are working on new changes to S96, taking into account our suggestions. I followed this up with the Dept Planning and Byron Shire Council, both of whom had unforthcoming about information regarding changes. Their replies were as follows:
DoP: "The applicant has recently advised the Department that they intend to submit amended plans next week. A decision on whether the amendments will be publicly exhibited will be reserved until the Department is in receipt of the information."
BSC: "We are asking the DoP to renotify the amendment to Sec 96 primarily due to the on site issue. I doubt whether with such a large development that the changes that I have observed would lead to a new DA but certainly it should be renotified"
In conclusion, DOP will decide whether or not to "go public" with the new plans (called "amendment") which BSC are requesting. Basically Wws are changing the goal posts, ie the plans are now different to the S96 application about which we made submissions. Section 96 requires that the plans are "substantially the same" as the approved DA. I have asked Ray Darney what the criteria is in determining whether the plans are "substantially the same" to the original DA, and I await his reply.
If Wws want to build Stage 2 straight away (approval was only given for Stage 1) there is not enough space for on-site sewage works.
LETTER TO MORRIS IEMMA, NSW PREMIER, is on our website and explains the situation more. It requests him to review the S96 and ask Sartor to reject it. Click on "documents" http://www.mullumaction.org – or "read more" next to Iemma"s pic.
MCAN CARNIVAL: We are still considering this for sometime in August – alternatively a ball at the new Civic Centre, or a demonstration. Let us know your ideas/preferences/enthusiasms. August 2/3 is the same weekend as Splendour and we think a later date would be better.
MULLUM TO BRUNS RUN/WALK – Sunday 3 August http:// http://www.mullumtobruns.org.au
GET UP RURAL SURVEY: The survey lists a number of issues drawn from the GetUp Ideas Forum and the Australia 2020 Summit - they'd love to hear which of these issues are most important to you! They also want to learn more about rural and regional members and how best you can participate in future GetUp campaigns. http://www.getup.org.au/campaign/CountrySurvey
NEW LOOK WOOLIES CALLED "THOMAS DUX GROCER" in Lane Cove – looks like a chic deli – shop assistants wear black, they have chalk boards and wooden boxes for the fruit. They are not promoting this on their website, but we know it"s them 3; the local papers were on to it, also http://www.foodweek.com.au/main-features-page.aspx?articleType=ArticleView&articleId=1198 orhttp://www.ausfoodnews.com.au/2008/04/24/woolworths-open-first-thomas-dux-store.html. Next Dux will be in Paddington. The local Greek deli in Lane Cove has now gone out of business. By the way, have you heard Wws gospel song "Woa-oh The Fresh Food People Yeah" (ring their number and ask for the manager, you will hear it while you wait).
SARTOR"S PLANNING LAWS Scrape through the Upper House (media release from Sylvia Hale) Planning Minister Frank Sartor"s controversial planning laws passed through the Upper House of parliament tonight by 1 vote after the two Christian Democrat MPs split. Fred Nile voted with the government in support of the new laws while Gordon Moyes voted with the Greens and the Opposition against the Bill. The two Shooters Party MPs voted with the government. Greens MP and Planning spokesperson Sylvia Hale said the vote was very disappointing given the widespread community concern about the Bill. "This Bill has been driven by the development industry from day one. It is the government"s reward to big developers for all the money they poured into the NSW ALP"s campaign coffers before the last election," said Ms Hale. "The Bill will damage the state"s environment and heritage. It will remove the rights of residents to have a say about the way their neighbourhoods develop. It will lead to increased disputes between neighbours and it will open the door for an even greater level of corruption in what is already a corrupt planning system." "The fact that the government has responded to the Wollongong Council scandal and the public disgust at favourable development decisions for big political donors by entrenching and extending conflicts of interest is a disgrace," said Ms Hale. The Greens moved 94 amendments to the Bill aimed at maintaining existing environmental and heritage protections, removing conflicts of interest and restoring appeal rights. All of the Greens amendments were defeated after the Opposition joined the Government in opposing them.******************************************************
Ode to Mullumbimby - by - Magenta Appel-Pye
In Mullumbimby we pride ourselves on being a unique little town,Our heritage business centre the jewel in our crownWith friendly shopkeepers who know us by nameWe like the fact that none are the same.Our locally grown fresh food in all its diversityShits on genetically modified perversity.
How Woolworths got their D.A. through verges on criminalTheir architectural sensitivity is less than minimal.They want to be the "one stop shop"They don"t care if local businesses flopThis rampant greed has got to stop!Their representatives were totally condescendingTheir lies and tricks seem never-ending.Already they want more and biggerHow they get away with it one can only figure.
This spotlights that the "family store" WooliesAre really "get want we want" corporate bullies!When big business practices are unsustainableOur climate change goals are unattainable.
A selfish person stops live music in the hillsOur happy healthy rituals he willingly killsBan music, dancing and drumming and there goes our cultureFurther eroded by the predatory Woo lies vulture.
Mullumbimby could be a shining lightOf healthy communities getting it rightA community garden, heritage areas and businesses diverseMakes one want to visit and open one"s purse.But when our rights are taken away and its only about moneyWe lose our sense of community and that"s not funnyI hope we can beat them and community good prevailsFor our lovely Mullumbimby, the biggest little town in N.S.W.*********************************************************
Contact Deborah 66843723 if you want to get more involved with MCAN.for Mullum.Deb
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
NEWSLETTER 7: CONTACT COUNCILLORS TODAY!
Greetings!
Brilliant turnout at BSC “Meet the Woolies” on Wednesday – thanks everyone for your support. The chambers rocked!
We have one more urgent need – that is to contact your councilors TODAY because they are discussing the S96 tomorrow at BSC. Meeting starts at 10.30 (let me know if you want placards). Because Woolworths have an approved DA, all we can do with the bureaucracy is to buy time: (you can cut & paste this section; then cut & paste the councillors addresses)
COUNCILLORS PLEASE REJECT S96 FOR DA 32-04-2006 MOD 2 BECAUSE:
BUILDING DESIGN
It’s taller by 1.2m (now 8.2m high)
It’s longer by 21.6m (its now 86.4m long)
(see our website for image www.mullumaction.org)
SEWAGE CONNECTION
Current STP is overloaded and a health hazard
“interim connection” is unfair; we have a moratorium
New STP won’t be ready by 2010 as no plans have been tendered
RELOCATION OF BUILDING TO NORTH MEANS
Extra traffic in Station Street: noise, fumes, pollution, vibration
More use of cars because of greater distance from town centre
Heavy good vehicles will pass 12 more houses in Station Street
SUNDAY DELIVERIES BETWEEN 10 & 4 PM
Unacceptable in residential area
These are the basic things we can get them on – no doubt you will think of more such as the building being alien to the heritage character of the town, an eyesore, etc.
BYRON SHIRE COUNCILLORS: cr.jan.barham@bigpond.com; cr.ray.kestle@bigpond.com; cr.ross.tucker@bigpond.com; cr.john.lazarus@bigpond.com; cr.peter.westheimer@bigpond.com; cr.jan.mangleson@bigpond.com; cr.diane.woods@bigpond.com; cr.richard.staples@bigpond.com; cr.tom.tabart@bigpond.com; cr.bob.tardiff@bigpond.com
“We don’t want Woolworths!” …. this is true and our strategy right now to stop them is... to play the planning game with Frank Sartor: get him to reject the S96 modifications; buy some time; ask for a new S96 which might be more acceptable or we reject it again.
Meanwhile, Woolworths will get fed up with the waiting game. Keep bombarding their directors (and CEO Michael Luscombe) with community opposition to the big box in the biggest little town. Email address: WW_Customer_Feedback@woolworths.com.au and snail mail address is 1 Woolworths Way, Bella Vista NSW 2153.
WOOLWORTHS DIRECTORS:
Mr James A Strong (Chairman, Non Exec. Director)Mr Michael Gerard Luscombe (Managing Director, CEO)Mr Tom Pockett (Director, Finance Director)Mr Ian MacFarlane (Director)Ms Alison Watkins (Director)Ms Diane J Grady (Non Exec. Director)Mr Leon M L'Huillier (Non Exec. Director)Dr Roderick Deane (Non Exec. Director)Mr John Astbury (Non Exec. Director)Mr Peter J Horton (General Counsel)
*****************************************************************
Thank you to everyone who supported me with my rego bills – much appreciated!
******************************************************************
KULCHAJAM ETHICAL FOOD CO-OP is starting up in Byron to “activate and develop a model of production and consumption that reflects principles of sustainability, creativity, cultural vibrance & social justice.” Cheap food, too.
Contact Techa 0409318406 or Rob 0431366466 for membership forms.
********************************************************
VOLUNTEERS WANTED FOR LETTER BOX DROP for S96 submissions
Please contact Meryn 66841415
*********************************************************
PINE GAP mind gap
The Terror Cell that Never Sleeps
What’s really going on in our red centre
http://www.mathaba.net/rss/?x=592592&abs2
*********************************************************
UPCOMING EVENTS
1. Tassie Forests Still Under Threat! Information and Action Night
Thursday, May 29th, 7PM @ Winsome Hotel, Lismore
2. Aquarius Film Festival - May 23rd @ Bush Theatre, Nimbin
3. Lismore People for Reconciliation Film Night for all the family
Friday May 23rd, 6.30pm @ Star Court Theatre, Lismore
4. Dance for Burma's Cyclone Victims - Saturday, May 24th from 4pm to 6:30pm at Temple Byron
5. Mushroom Mycrorenewal Project - Saturday, May 24th 7PM Sphinx Rock Cafe, Mt Burrell.
6. ...and on a community note, a Hats Off to Hofmann party will be held at the Bush Theatre, this Friday, May 16th, 7PM onwards in honour of the late Albert Hofmann including films, testimonials, yummy food, Happy High Herbs and a raging dance party with Pagan Love Cult.
More info on each of these events from:
Rainforest Information CentreBox 368, Lismore 2480 NSW(02) 66897519http://www.rainforestinfo.org.au/
rainforestinfo@ozemail.com.au
Palm Oil Consumer Campaign, Take Action Now! - http://www.palmoilaction.org.au/
…. More next week
Cheers
Deborah
Brilliant turnout at BSC “Meet the Woolies” on Wednesday – thanks everyone for your support. The chambers rocked!
We have one more urgent need – that is to contact your councilors TODAY because they are discussing the S96 tomorrow at BSC. Meeting starts at 10.30 (let me know if you want placards). Because Woolworths have an approved DA, all we can do with the bureaucracy is to buy time: (you can cut & paste this section; then cut & paste the councillors addresses)
COUNCILLORS PLEASE REJECT S96 FOR DA 32-04-2006 MOD 2 BECAUSE:
BUILDING DESIGN
It’s taller by 1.2m (now 8.2m high)
It’s longer by 21.6m (its now 86.4m long)
(see our website for image www.mullumaction.org)
SEWAGE CONNECTION
Current STP is overloaded and a health hazard
“interim connection” is unfair; we have a moratorium
New STP won’t be ready by 2010 as no plans have been tendered
RELOCATION OF BUILDING TO NORTH MEANS
Extra traffic in Station Street: noise, fumes, pollution, vibration
More use of cars because of greater distance from town centre
Heavy good vehicles will pass 12 more houses in Station Street
SUNDAY DELIVERIES BETWEEN 10 & 4 PM
Unacceptable in residential area
These are the basic things we can get them on – no doubt you will think of more such as the building being alien to the heritage character of the town, an eyesore, etc.
BYRON SHIRE COUNCILLORS: cr.jan.barham@bigpond.com; cr.ray.kestle@bigpond.com; cr.ross.tucker@bigpond.com; cr.john.lazarus@bigpond.com; cr.peter.westheimer@bigpond.com; cr.jan.mangleson@bigpond.com; cr.diane.woods@bigpond.com; cr.richard.staples@bigpond.com; cr.tom.tabart@bigpond.com; cr.bob.tardiff@bigpond.com
“We don’t want Woolworths!” …. this is true and our strategy right now to stop them is... to play the planning game with Frank Sartor: get him to reject the S96 modifications; buy some time; ask for a new S96 which might be more acceptable or we reject it again.
Meanwhile, Woolworths will get fed up with the waiting game. Keep bombarding their directors (and CEO Michael Luscombe) with community opposition to the big box in the biggest little town. Email address: WW_Customer_Feedback@woolworths.com.au and snail mail address is 1 Woolworths Way, Bella Vista NSW 2153.
WOOLWORTHS DIRECTORS:
Mr James A Strong (Chairman, Non Exec. Director)Mr Michael Gerard Luscombe (Managing Director, CEO)Mr Tom Pockett (Director, Finance Director)Mr Ian MacFarlane (Director)Ms Alison Watkins (Director)Ms Diane J Grady (Non Exec. Director)Mr Leon M L'Huillier (Non Exec. Director)Dr Roderick Deane (Non Exec. Director)Mr John Astbury (Non Exec. Director)Mr Peter J Horton (General Counsel)
*****************************************************************
Thank you to everyone who supported me with my rego bills – much appreciated!
******************************************************************
KULCHAJAM ETHICAL FOOD CO-OP is starting up in Byron to “activate and develop a model of production and consumption that reflects principles of sustainability, creativity, cultural vibrance & social justice.” Cheap food, too.
Contact Techa 0409318406 or Rob 0431366466 for membership forms.
********************************************************
VOLUNTEERS WANTED FOR LETTER BOX DROP for S96 submissions
Please contact Meryn 66841415
*********************************************************
PINE GAP mind gap
The Terror Cell that Never Sleeps
What’s really going on in our red centre
http://www.mathaba.net/rss/?x=592592&abs2
*********************************************************
UPCOMING EVENTS
1. Tassie Forests Still Under Threat! Information and Action Night
Thursday, May 29th, 7PM @ Winsome Hotel, Lismore
2. Aquarius Film Festival - May 23rd @ Bush Theatre, Nimbin
3. Lismore People for Reconciliation Film Night for all the family
Friday May 23rd, 6.30pm @ Star Court Theatre, Lismore
4. Dance for Burma's Cyclone Victims - Saturday, May 24th from 4pm to 6:30pm at Temple Byron
5. Mushroom Mycrorenewal Project - Saturday, May 24th 7PM Sphinx Rock Cafe, Mt Burrell.
6. ...and on a community note, a Hats Off to Hofmann party will be held at the Bush Theatre, this Friday, May 16th, 7PM onwards in honour of the late Albert Hofmann including films, testimonials, yummy food, Happy High Herbs and a raging dance party with Pagan Love Cult.
More info on each of these events from:
Rainforest Information CentreBox 368, Lismore 2480 NSW(02) 66897519http://www.rainforestinfo.org.au/
rainforestinfo@ozemail.com.au
Palm Oil Consumer Campaign, Take Action Now! - http://www.palmoilaction.org.au/
…. More next week
Cheers
Deborah
Friday, May 16, 2008
WHY WHAT'S GOOD FOR WOOLIES IS BAD FOR MULLUM
Now that Woolworths have bought Mallams Supermarket, they want to build a very large new store, almost as large as Byron Woolworths—next to a residential part of town on railway land in Station Street.
Mullumbimby Community Action Network (MCAN) is a growing group of concerned residents who believe that Woolworths will be bad for Mullum.
Why?
Woolworths’ has a history of destroying local businesses and communities. Across Australia, towns have found that a new Woolworths, opening with prices at or below cost, sends many locals out of business, reduces local employment, and sells little or no local produce. Furthermore, the Station Street site will create massive traffic problems in Mullum, break up the present compact retail area, and destroy the value of a residential part of town. A lot more retail profit will also leave Mullumbimby instead of staying in the town.
History
In 2005 Byron Shire Council rejected the Station Street development proposed by Mallams, who then appealed to the NSW Minister for Planning, Frank Sartor. Sartor overturned the Council decision and allowed the development on certain conditions. Mallams then sold the approved DA to Woolworths—who are now unhappy with some of the conditions.
Bend the Rules?
One of the conditions of the original DA was that sewage had to be disposed of on-site, because of a moratorium on new connections to the overloaded Mullumbimby sewage system.
Woolworths have now lodged a DA to modify conditions, including a ‘special dispensation’ for an ‘interim connection’ to Mullum’s already overloaded sewage system. The new sewage treatment plant will not be finished for some years: the “interim” could become permanent. Why should Woolworths be allowed to bend the rules while other developers toe the line? The DA modification document can be viewed at BSC or on the BSC website.
Take Action
The NSW Minister for Planning, Frank Sartor, has the final say on this revised DA, and MCAN urges you to lodge your personal objections. Write or email them using the enclosed form letter as a guide. An electronic version is available at our website, www.mullumaction.org. Or simply sign the enclosed letter (with a personal note, if possible) and, ideally, one signature per submission. Post it to the address included or leave it at a drop box in Santos, Eden’s Landing, or the deli counter at IGA. All objections must be received before 30 May 2008. Nonresidents may also submit objections.
Apart from the damage Woolworths will cause to local businesses, a building five times the size of either of our existing supermarkets, and in a residential area, is so out of proportion to the small-town personal scale of Mullum, it will change the nature of the town permanently—for the worse.
If you value Mullum the way it is—we need your help to keep it that way.
Woolies is bad for Mullum
Mullum Community Action Network (MCAN)
www.mullumaction.org
PO Box 603
Mullumbimby, NSW
To:
All Byron Shire Residents
Woolies Is Bad for Mullum
Why What’s Good for Woolies…
Is Bad for Mullum
Action Requested:
Please read the enclosed and voice your concerns to the Planning Minister
Be sure your submission includes:
• Your name and address
• The reference number (DA 32-04-2006 MOD 2)
• A statement objecting to the proposal and the reasons why you object
Submissions must reach the Dept of Planning by close of business May 30.
paula.tomkins@planning.nsw.gov.au
Post: The Director, Coastal Assessments
Dept of Planning
GPO Box 39
Sydney NSW 2001
Mullumbimby Community Action Network (MCAN) is a growing group of concerned residents who believe that Woolworths will be bad for Mullum.
Why?
Woolworths’ has a history of destroying local businesses and communities. Across Australia, towns have found that a new Woolworths, opening with prices at or below cost, sends many locals out of business, reduces local employment, and sells little or no local produce. Furthermore, the Station Street site will create massive traffic problems in Mullum, break up the present compact retail area, and destroy the value of a residential part of town. A lot more retail profit will also leave Mullumbimby instead of staying in the town.
History
In 2005 Byron Shire Council rejected the Station Street development proposed by Mallams, who then appealed to the NSW Minister for Planning, Frank Sartor. Sartor overturned the Council decision and allowed the development on certain conditions. Mallams then sold the approved DA to Woolworths—who are now unhappy with some of the conditions.
Bend the Rules?
One of the conditions of the original DA was that sewage had to be disposed of on-site, because of a moratorium on new connections to the overloaded Mullumbimby sewage system.
Woolworths have now lodged a DA to modify conditions, including a ‘special dispensation’ for an ‘interim connection’ to Mullum’s already overloaded sewage system. The new sewage treatment plant will not be finished for some years: the “interim” could become permanent. Why should Woolworths be allowed to bend the rules while other developers toe the line? The DA modification document can be viewed at BSC or on the BSC website.
Take Action
The NSW Minister for Planning, Frank Sartor, has the final say on this revised DA, and MCAN urges you to lodge your personal objections. Write or email them using the enclosed form letter as a guide. An electronic version is available at our website, www.mullumaction.org. Or simply sign the enclosed letter (with a personal note, if possible) and, ideally, one signature per submission. Post it to the address included or leave it at a drop box in Santos, Eden’s Landing, or the deli counter at IGA. All objections must be received before 30 May 2008. Nonresidents may also submit objections.
Apart from the damage Woolworths will cause to local businesses, a building five times the size of either of our existing supermarkets, and in a residential area, is so out of proportion to the small-town personal scale of Mullum, it will change the nature of the town permanently—for the worse.
If you value Mullum the way it is—we need your help to keep it that way.
Woolies is bad for Mullum
Mullum Community Action Network (MCAN)
www.mullumaction.org
PO Box 603
Mullumbimby, NSW
To:
All Byron Shire Residents
Woolies Is Bad for Mullum
Why What’s Good for Woolies…
Is Bad for Mullum
Action Requested:
Please read the enclosed and voice your concerns to the Planning Minister
Be sure your submission includes:
• Your name and address
• The reference number (DA 32-04-2006 MOD 2)
• A statement objecting to the proposal and the reasons why you object
Submissions must reach the Dept of Planning by close of business May 30.
paula.tomkins@planning.nsw.gov.au
Post: The Director, Coastal Assessments
Dept of Planning
GPO Box 39
Sydney NSW 2001
HOW TO OBJECT TO SEC 96 DA AMENDMENT
The Director, Coastal Assessments
Dept of Planning, GPO Box 39
Sydney NSW 2001
Re: Section 96 by Woolworths for Variations to DA for Supermarket in Mullumbimby.
Reference No: DA 32-04-2006 MOD 2
Dear Mr. Sartor
I wish to object to the variations Woolworths Ltd. has applied to be made to conditions imposed by your Department in approving the above development in 2005. The reasons for my objections are as follows:
Variation on Sewage Connection. The original two-stage development was approved on condition that sewage from Stage 1 was treated on-site. Woolworths plan to build both stages at once with no on-site collection and treatment, and special dispensation to connect to the existing sewage system - breaking a moratorium other developers abide by. Mullumbimby’s overloaded and inadequate sewage system cannot cope with this massive extra load.
Variation on Building Shift and Vehicle Noise. Shifting the building 54 metres to the north from its original approved position and with no landscaping, will give residences at the river end of Station Street an outlook dominated by a large concrete wall instead of the present trees and pasture. Moving the re-located building’s loading bays to the north end means semi-trailers will travel further along Station Street with more residences subject to constant noise impact from morning till night.
Variation on Unloading Bay Operation Times. The original DA only allowed deliveries six days a week. This variation allows semi-trailers to unload on Sundays as well from 10am to 4pm.This is unacceptable in a residential zone.
Variation on Illuminated Signs. Standard Woolworths signs are much larger and more intrusive than those allowed for in the original DA. If allowed, this variation will also add to the light pollution at night for nearby residents from permanent lights in the car park.
Variation on Screening in Station Street. The variation leaves gaps in the tree screen allowing the supermarket to be clearly visible from residences in Station Street. Extra mature plantings are not proposed. Shrubs screening the fence along Station Street have been deleted meaning the perimeter fence will be very visible. A west elevation showing new plantings and which trees are to be retained to screen the building from Station Street is not provided.
Variation on Car Park. This allows the car park to be ramped from ground level at the southern end of the site to the supermarket floor level at the northern end. The site is flood-prone land. No details of the impact of these changes on flooding is provided.
Variation on Metal Screening. Metal screening around the underside of the suspended slab (elevated because of the flood prone nature of the site) will be an eyesore visible from the residential area of Station Street. Similarly there is no detail of the nature of the metal and timber perimeter fence is available for the public to comment on.
These variations to the original DA will create an even greater loss of amenity in a quiet residential part of town, compounding the negative effects of such a massive development totally out of proportion with the small-town scale we value highly about the present Mullumbimby. Please reject them all.
Yours,
Name
Address
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
SLOGANS FOR BANNERS, ETC
Mullum: We Want Small Traders—Not Corporate Invaders. No Woolworths!
Mullum: We Are Not Fresh-Fooled People. Think Logically. Shop Locally.
Woolies, I Don’t Buy It.
Mullumbimby, Charming and Quaint. Woolworths Ain’t.
Woolies Are Bullies
Mullumbimby— Co-operation Not Corporation.
Mullum: It’s a Special Spot—Not a Red Hot Special
Support your local "Fresh Food People"Say no to Woolworths in Mullumbimby!
Bugger off bullies!
SUPPORT our LOCAL merchants, our local farmers, our unique community.NO WOOLWORTHS in Mullumbimby
You don't know what you've got till its gone.Shop locally—think globally
Warning Mullum, It Ain't Worth the Wool!
Woolworths - the f*cked food people.
Woolworths - the truck food people
Woolies, a wolf in sheep's clothing
Woolworths… Worth It?
Woolworths—Wealth from Stealth
Don't pull the Woolies over our eye's
Mullum CAN stop Woolworths
Size does Matterin the Biggest Little Town in AustraliaMullumbimby—Supporting Small and Local Businesses
Yer not pulling the woolies over my eyes
Save the Biggest Little Town
Woolworths the Trash Food People
Woolworths, it's not worth it.
Diversity=Resilience. Support Local Small Business
Mullumbimby Won't be Woolied.
Mullum—Woolworths free zone.
Woolies? Not Worth It.
Check out Mullumbimby before Woolworths does.
Local Business=Local WealthCorporate Business=Corporate Wealth
Woolies? Not!
Keeping Our Community AliveMullumbimby-Where Size Makes a Difference
Local is my space
Sustainable Communities Thrive on Local Support
Community Starts here
Save the Biggest Little Town
Shop Local – Save a Farmer!
Want to see the entry of your choice made up as bumper stickers, badges and T--shirt? We’re looking for funds to support these ventures. Call 6684 1415.
Mullum: We Are Not Fresh-Fooled People. Think Logically. Shop Locally.
Woolies, I Don’t Buy It.
Mullumbimby, Charming and Quaint. Woolworths Ain’t.
Woolies Are Bullies
Mullumbimby— Co-operation Not Corporation.
Mullum: It’s a Special Spot—Not a Red Hot Special
Support your local "Fresh Food People"Say no to Woolworths in Mullumbimby!
Bugger off bullies!
SUPPORT our LOCAL merchants, our local farmers, our unique community.NO WOOLWORTHS in Mullumbimby
You don't know what you've got till its gone.Shop locally—think globally
Warning Mullum, It Ain't Worth the Wool!
Woolworths - the f*cked food people.
Woolworths - the truck food people
Woolies, a wolf in sheep's clothing
Woolworths… Worth It?
Woolworths—Wealth from Stealth
Don't pull the Woolies over our eye's
Mullum CAN stop Woolworths
Size does Matterin the Biggest Little Town in AustraliaMullumbimby—Supporting Small and Local Businesses
Yer not pulling the woolies over my eyes
Save the Biggest Little Town
Woolworths the Trash Food People
Woolworths, it's not worth it.
Diversity=Resilience. Support Local Small Business
Mullumbimby Won't be Woolied.
Mullum—Woolworths free zone.
Woolies? Not Worth It.
Check out Mullumbimby before Woolworths does.
Local Business=Local WealthCorporate Business=Corporate Wealth
Woolies? Not!
Keeping Our Community AliveMullumbimby-Where Size Makes a Difference
Local is my space
Sustainable Communities Thrive on Local Support
Community Starts here
Save the Biggest Little Town
Shop Local – Save a Farmer!
Want to see the entry of your choice made up as bumper stickers, badges and T--shirt? We’re looking for funds to support these ventures. Call 6684 1415.
GOING LOCAL ... CONVERGENCE!
Going Local - A Relocalisation Convergence
New Farm, Brisbane 24-25 May, 2008
Going Local has been designed as a participatory gathering of people interested in building the sustainability and resilience of their local communities. Amongst us will be some of the leading innovators in sustainable local economies, community-building and place-making. People like:
Judy Wicks, co-founder of the Business Alliance for Local Living Economies in the United States, Helena Norberg-Hodge, founder of the International Society for Ecology and Culture in the UK and author of Ancient Futures,
Gilbert Rochecouste, place-maker, urban deep ecologist and founder of Village Well in Melbourne,
Ingrid Burkett, Education & Innovations Co-ordinator, Foresters ANA
John Champagne, founding member of the Bega Eco Neighbourhood Developers,
Mitra Ardron, founder of the Byron Shire Sustainable Ventures Network and Director of Beyond Building Energy.
A Going Local Program and Registration form is on www.climateleadership.net.au
REGISTRATIONS CLOSE THIS FRIDAY 16th MAY.
We are on the cusp of an era of unprecedented change - change that we can hardly even imagine. Our modern world is built of an assumption of unlimited growth driven by abundant cheap energy. But the end of this road is now in sight. Our future depends on reinventing ourselves in harmony with the natural limits of our planet. And doing it quickly. While action by governments and corporations is essential, it is the strength and resilience of our communities that will ultimately make the difference. In community we are best able to adapt and to innovate. This is where the inertia of our social and political institutions is weakest, our motivation strong, our values clear, and our willingness to collaborate with others the greatest. In community we care the most, feel most connected to each other and to place, and are most confident to act. Going Local is a unique opportunity to explore what we know about building strong, adaptable communities. It offers a chance to share the experience of some of the pioneers of sustainable local economies. It will be a place to build the connections for learning from each others experiences as we move into an unknown future.
So make a commitment to your sense of community, your love of the Earth, and to your own ability to learn and relearn in action. This is how we can create a future for our children to believe in. For more information: www.climateleadership.net.au
New Farm, Brisbane 24-25 May, 2008
Going Local has been designed as a participatory gathering of people interested in building the sustainability and resilience of their local communities. Amongst us will be some of the leading innovators in sustainable local economies, community-building and place-making. People like:
Judy Wicks, co-founder of the Business Alliance for Local Living Economies in the United States, Helena Norberg-Hodge, founder of the International Society for Ecology and Culture in the UK and author of Ancient Futures,
Gilbert Rochecouste, place-maker, urban deep ecologist and founder of Village Well in Melbourne,
Ingrid Burkett, Education & Innovations Co-ordinator, Foresters ANA
John Champagne, founding member of the Bega Eco Neighbourhood Developers,
Mitra Ardron, founder of the Byron Shire Sustainable Ventures Network and Director of Beyond Building Energy.
A Going Local Program and Registration form is on www.climateleadership.net.au
REGISTRATIONS CLOSE THIS FRIDAY 16th MAY.
We are on the cusp of an era of unprecedented change - change that we can hardly even imagine. Our modern world is built of an assumption of unlimited growth driven by abundant cheap energy. But the end of this road is now in sight. Our future depends on reinventing ourselves in harmony with the natural limits of our planet. And doing it quickly. While action by governments and corporations is essential, it is the strength and resilience of our communities that will ultimately make the difference. In community we are best able to adapt and to innovate. This is where the inertia of our social and political institutions is weakest, our motivation strong, our values clear, and our willingness to collaborate with others the greatest. In community we care the most, feel most connected to each other and to place, and are most confident to act. Going Local is a unique opportunity to explore what we know about building strong, adaptable communities. It offers a chance to share the experience of some of the pioneers of sustainable local economies. It will be a place to build the connections for learning from each others experiences as we move into an unknown future.
So make a commitment to your sense of community, your love of the Earth, and to your own ability to learn and relearn in action. This is how we can create a future for our children to believe in. For more information: www.climateleadership.net.au
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