Readers might recall that there was an attempt by the general manager of Goulburn Mulwaree Council only a few years ago to replace the Goulburn Post with a council funded newspaper, which I fiercely opposed. The attempt failed by only one vote and both the former and current mayor were not among those who voted for my motion. I made the point that a local newspaper should always be supported for its independent voice and to assist in employment in a country town.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Lo and behold last Tuesday's council meeting under the innocuous heading 'Covid-19 Update' in the business paper. I reproduce part of the resolution below:
"COVID-19 UPDATE RESOLUTION 2020/119 Moved: Cr Margaret O'Neill Seconded: Cr Peter Walker That: 1. The report from the General Manager on COVID-19 Update be received. 2. Council endorse the following process for the notification of public advertisements. a) Placing all Council ads in full on the Council website..."
What that means is that council, under the guise of the virus crisis, has removed advertising from the Goulburn Post and is now advertising on its website. The general manager has achieved his aim of undermining the local paper and guess who opposed the motion? No one. Not one of those lily-livered councillors had the intelligence or backbone to stand up and defend the local paper and the jobs that go with it. It was passed unanimously.
Think carefully about voting because if you vote for nodding donkeys don't be surprised when they all nod together.
Robin Saville, Goulburn
- Robin Saville was a previous councillor with Goulburn Mulwaree Council.
We care about what you think. Have your say in the form below and if you love local news don't forget to subscribe.