“IT always seems impossible until it’s done.”
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
So said South African President Nelson Mandela about his fight against apartheid.
The famous quote was resurrected on Saturday by Community Energy for Goulburn (CE4G) member, Mhairi Fraser.
Of course she was speaking about the renewable energy project that could put the city on the map, if realised.
This small committee started out with an idea that must have seemed impossible at the time. Bit by bit they have cleared hurdles and embraced wider expertise to help bring it to fruition.
They should be commended for the sheer amount of work devoted to a feasibility study on this initiative.
It is thorough, well researched and will be an important guide for any potential investor.
Notably, it has also won the endorsement of renewable energy advocate, John Hewson.
There’s some way to go on Goulburn’s proposed solar farm yet, including a development application, approval and financing.
The group is the first to recognise this and given their energy to date, will pursue it with gusto to the end.
They are a shining example that we don’t have to rely on Council and government to take the lead.
The power lies with us to make a difference too.
Pooling ideas
IF the new concept plan for the Goulburn Aquatic Centre actually comes even close to what it looks like on paper - then it will be a darn good facility in a few years’ time.
God knows the tired and run down old pool needs a “good going over.”
It has not had much TLC over the past few years.
The new concept plan for the pool includes some interesting features such as cafes and community meeting rooms, as well as a spa and a new warm-water in pool in which the depth can be varied - what an amazing idea!
There is no doubt the earlier sessions in the Council Chambers last Thursday on both the Aquatic Centre and the Victoria Park precinct were robust and lively events, with many community members having their say - particularly about the park.
It seems people have a real psychological need for that green space in the centre of the city and they are passionate about the facilities within it - whether it be the Dog Park or the Aquatic Centre or the two ovals, tennis courts or playgrounds.
But the park could use better pathways and linkages and signage between the various facilities in it.
It needs to be more logically linked to the city centre as well.
At the moment Victoria Park is a hotchpotch of facilities that have just happened to end up there.
This new plan and last week’s sessions may be the start of a new era for the much-loved park.
Let’s hope it gets the spruce up it deserves, while retaining its character and history.